The next University of Greenwich Open Day is just around the corner – and it’s a great chance to learn more about the courses on offer.
Our Nursing course came top in London for student satisfaction this year (according to the 2019 National Student Survey) and one of our students, Verity Lancaster won the BJM Student Midwife of the Year.
Final year student, Verity explains why midwifery at Greenwich was the right choice for her.
Why did you decide to study at Greenwich?
“I was drawn to the peacefulness of Greenwich. It’s such a beautiful part of London and gives you the option to go into the centre for fun without the London bustle surrounding you constantly. South London also has such a huge variety of people and so placements here mean you’re constantly seeing new cultures and social situations that I feel give such a rounded view of life. Also, I wanted to go to the university because the staff were immediately so friendly and packed with so many stories, and the campus seemed like a lovely environment to be in.”
How is the course preparing you for a career in Midwifery?
“Both the NHS placements and the skills that you learn at the university really prepare you for a career in midwifery.
“You gain great hands-on experience during the placements. Although they have been intense, they have also been amazing. The first birth I supported was lovely. I really enjoyed it – everyone was so happy, and the atmosphere of love was incredible. And when births have been difficult and challenging, it’s been a privilege to have been to able support people and be there for them.
“At the university, I have enjoyed the discussions that have taken place during tutorials about what is happening now in midwifery and learning about current practices. The lecturers are knowledgeable and it’s a supportive learning environment. The practical skills workshops are also incredibly helpful. You are taught by both midwives and nurses about subjects such as anatomy and pathology, and this gives you a broad understanding of the human body. This has enabled me to provide care and support holistically.”
How did it feel winning the BMJ Student Midwife of the Year award?
“It was amazing and a massive surprise. I am very grateful. The best part is that it has given me a big boost so that I am more confident at recognising opportunities to make changes.”
What are you looking forward to most about your final year?
“Now that I know more, I am looking forward to working more autonomously and being more confident in my knowledge. I am also excited about finishing my degree and going out in the world and being a midwife. I can’t wait to take on new challenges and help shape the future of midwifery.”
About Midwifery, BSc Hons at Greenwich
Students on the course are taught by an experienced team of experts, which includes senior academics, technical officers, and practitioners with industry experience.
As well as teaching, course staff are also pursuing innovation with developments like the newly designed midwifery degree apprenticeship programme and we’re also developing a brand new simulation suite where students can practice their new skills, like examining new-born infants.
In 2018, the quality of our teaching staff was recognised at the British Journal of Midwifery awards, where our midwifery team won first prize for their contribution to midwifery education.
Book on to our next Open Day on 23 November to find out more!