Aberystwyth Uni nursing degree to encourage Welsh speakers

Students enrolled in a new nursing major have welcomed the opportunity to learn close to home.

On Monday, Aberystwyth University in Ceredigion welcomes 53 students to the new course, which is partly in Welsh.

Health worker Caryl James, from nearby Bow Street, said studying away from home for a degree was never an option as a single mother.

“Getting a place on the course is incredible. I was really excited. I cried when I heard I got a seat,” she said.

Ms James, who also works as a phlebotomist alongside being a nurse at Bronglais Hospital in the city, said qualifying as a nurse has always been an ambition.

“But as a single mum it would have been impossible for me to travel to a course in Swansea or anywhere else, so being able to do the course in Aberystwyth makes everything easier,” she said.

“It feels like stepping into someone else’s life.”

Fellow student Anna Stevens from Penrhyncoch said studying for such a degree would have been impossible while she was an unpaid caregiver to her disabled son.

But since Philip grew up, she has received funding for caregivers to look after him.

“This is more than just a new chapter for me. I feel like it’s a new life,” she said.

“It’s just surreal to have the opportunity and it’s right on my doorstep, which is incredible.”

Ms Stevens, who also has a daughter in secondary school, said becoming a nurse would be one way to pay back the community that has helped her.

“This feels like my opportunity to give back, to give to my community, and to make a difference for people as well,” she said.

The university has been commissioned by Health Education and Improvement Wales, which supports organizations within NHS Wales, with the majority of students coming from across the region.

About half speak Welsh, who can complete part of their degree in Welsh to increase the number of people speaking the language in the health and care sector.

“This is a boost for our NHS, which will benefit carer recruitment and retention at both local and regional levels,” said the university’s vice-chancellor, Prof Elizabeth Treasure.