Chloe Crawford, who works as a Practice Sister at Valley Medical Practice, recently shared her advice for those who are interested in pursuing a career in Nursing during the ‘Who Cares? We Care event held at South West College’ Erne Campus in Enniskillen. Chloe was part of the first group of students who undertook the Foundation Degree in Science in Health and Social Care and spoke about how she overcame her difficulties with Dyslexia and secured three nursing offers after completing her Foundation Degree.

Leaving school, Chloe was determined to pursue a career in nursing. However, she was disappointed not to get a university place due to the competitive nature of the recruitment process. Unsure of what to do next, she reached out to South West College and was advised that the Foundation Degree would be a good option for her.

As she progressed through the programme, Chloe found it to be a perfect stepping stone for further studies at university. Reflecting upon her dyslexia, Chloe explained that she found academic writing to be difficult and was grateful for the support she received at the college.

Passionate about her role in the community and the various opportunities it provides her with, since leaving university, Chloe has been able to benefit from further training in roles such as Diabetes Management and Cervical Screening.

Asked for her advice to students who don’t get offered a place at university, Chloe offered the following thoughts:

"There is a path that is made for you. I did the Foundation Degree when my A-Levels didn't secure my spot. I was sceptical, but it turned out to be the best thing.

Then when I did graduate, I didn't get a job immediately, again, that was disheartening, but I was asked to cover a maternity role at a local GP surgery. Three years later I am the Practice Sister and have been able to undertake so many courses and expand my knowledge."

John Moore, Head of Health, Life and Personal Sciences at South West College said;

“Chloe’s experience is that shared by many of our students. The Foundation Degree provides a a very suitable pathway for so many people who want to get into a medical profession but may not have achieve the grades required for a place in University or may not have the means or desire to take a place at University.

Our students often reflect that the knowledge and experience gained through the Foundation Degree has left them much better equipped to face the challenges of working in a highly pressured sector and we are proud of our role in helping to shape Chloe’s career.”

In summing up her thoughts about her career, Chloe reflected; “you don’t get into Health and Social care for the money or the hours. You get into it because you care about helping people – the value is in seeing the difference you made.”

For further information on Health and Social Care courses at South West College check out the courses below: