Breaking the Mould: A Different Kind of Nursing Placement

I’m in my final year of adult nursing at the University of Leeds, balancing intense clinical placements with my final dissertation as I prepare to earn my pin.

When we think of nursing placements, the first things that come to mind are hospital wards, GP practices, or community clinics. However, nursing is a diverse profession with many unique opportunities to learn beyond traditional clinical environments. One such opportunity is a placement with the community clinical education team. I was fortunate enough to spend two weeks in this setting, where I gained invaluable insight into the various roles that contribute to nursing education and professional development.

Breaking the Mould: A Different Kind of Placement

Unlike typical placements focusing on direct patient care, my time with the clinical education team introduced me to the behind-the-scenes work ensuring nursing professionals remain competent, confident, and up-to-date with best practices. The experience broadened my understanding of the many ways nurses can contribute to the healthcare system outside of traditional bedside care.

What Does a Community Clinical Education Team Do?

A community clinical education team is responsible for supporting the learning and development of nursing staff and students. Their role encompasses:

• Training and Development: Organising study days, simulation training, and professional development sessions.
• Preceptorship Programmes: Supporting newly qualified nurses as they transition into professional practice.
• Policy and Guidelines: Ensuring staff adhere to the latest clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices.
• Mentorship and Coaching: Guiding nursing students and experienced nurses looking to enhance their skills.

Key Takeaways from My Placement

During my two-week placement, I had the opportunity to shadow different members of the team and understand their roles in depth. Here are some of my biggest takeaways:

1. Education is a Vital Part of Nursing

While direct patient care is at the heart of nursing, education is what ensures that quality care is consistently delivered. I observed how training sessions and competency assessments equip nurses with the skills and confidence they need to provide safe, effective care.

2. The Importance of Continuous Learning

Healthcare is constantly evolving, and nurses must stay current with new treatments, guidelines, and technologies. The community clinical education team plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of lifelong learning, ensuring that staff remain adaptable and knowledgeable.

3. Developing Leadership and Communication Skills

Through observing training sessions and meetings, I saw firsthand how strong leadership and communication skills are essential for educators and nurses. The ability to engage, inspire, and guide others is just as important as clinical expertise.

4. Supporting Students and Newly Qualified Nurses

I gained a deeper appreciation for the structured support available to students and newly qualified nurses. Preceptorship programmes, skills workshops, and one-on-one mentorship provide vital encouragement and reassurance during the early stages of a nursing career.

Why Non-Traditional Placements Matter

This experience highlighted for me the importance of exploring non-traditional placements during nursing education. Not only did it give me a fresh perspective on career possibilities, it also reinforced the idea that nursing extends far beyond direct patient care. Whether in education, research, leadership, or policy development, nurses play a pivotal role in shaping healthcare at multiple levels.

Final Thoughts

Non-traditional placements, such as those with a community clinical education team, offer nursing students invaluable experiences that shape their understanding of the profession. These opportunities not only expand career possibilities but also reinforce the idea that nursing is a dynamic, ever-evolving field that requires adaptability, leadership, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

For any nursing student considering alternative placements, I highly recommend seeking out opportunities with education teams, research departments, or policy organisations. These experiences offer a broader understanding of the profession and can open doors to career paths you may not have previously considered. My time with the community clinical education team was eye-opening, and I now have a newfound appreciation for the educators who support and empower the nursing workforce.

If you ever get the chance to step into a non-traditional placement, embrace it! You might just discover a whole new passion within nursing!

Adrianna Montgomery
Adult Nursing BSc