Find out how practice-based learning is changing
Timeline for implementation of standards
RCN support for practice-based learning
With the introduction of the new NMC education standards the way in which practice-based learning is delivered will change.
Students still have to undertake 2,300 hours of theory and 2,300 hours of practice-based learning before they can be registered. However, the way in which the proficiencies are presented is different as they apply across the four fields of nursing practice.
One of the most significant changes to practice-based learning is that mentors and sign-off mentors will be replaced by practice supervisors, practice assessors and academic assessors. The NMC has set standards for these roles but they have not specified what type of training or preparation is required to undertake roles.
While this allows for local innovative approaches to these roles there is a risk that some areas will do this better than others. In January 2019 the NMC published supporting information on the standards for student supervision and assessment to help with the implementation of the new standards.
This resource will support practice-based learning by:
We know there are many great examples of ways that nursing and midwifery staff have implemented changes to practice-based learning, as part of the new NMC Education Standards.
By sharing these examples on the RCN website, we hope it will encourage others to use this learning in their own workplace.
To share your innovations with us, please complete this short form.