Specialist Practitioner Student (District Nurse)

at  Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

The post holder will undertake the S pecialist P ractitioner course at one of the Universities with which the Trust has a contract . The course will run for one academic year and the contract will be fixed term for this period. On successful completion of the course a permanent post would be offered . The course will enable the post holder to develop opportunities to gain knowledge, understanding and skills in a designated area of specialist practice.
During the course, the student’s time will be divided between university lectures and tutorials; placement in the community; and study time.
The student will work under the direction of the Practice Supervisor (PS ), Practice Assessor (PA) and Academic Assessor (AA) through all stages of training and will be actively involved in the assessment, planning and provision of care to clients / patients and contribute to the public health agenda either in groups or on an individual basis with clients of the Practice Supervisors caseload.
The student will work jointly with their PS , PA and AA to ensure that progress is achieved through the curriculum, and to facilitate successful completion of assignments and practical assessments at each stage of their degree programme.
The emphasis of Community Health is on case management of patients and the prevention of unnecessary Hospital admissions.
To complete the required further education at postgraduate level in order to provide and maintain a high standard of skilled nursing care for individuals, groups and communities in a variety of settings in accordance with the accredited faculty syllabus.
The specialist practice student works under the direction of the PS and PA who are membe rs of the locality Community Nursing Team. The student will work with the PS’s client group under supervision.
To work with the PS , PA and university lecturers to reflect on academic learning and practice, contribute to assessment of progress, plan learning objectives and submit academic coursework according to university deadlines .
Provide and maintain high standards of skilled care for patients/clients in a variety of community settings, in compliance with the protocols and the guidelines of the Trust.
To assess and re-assess care needs, develop, implement and evaluate programmes of care in liaison with and under the direct tutelage of the Practice Supervisor/ Practice Assessor.
To regularly take charge, under supervision, of a defined caseload, in order to develop the required managerial skills, including the allocation of work, supervision and support of junior staff.
To respond effectively to the local population health needs through working within the team and wider Multi-disciplinary team.
Participate in Clinical Governance activities such as clinical audit.
Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is a specialist mental health and community health services trust. Rated ‘outstanding’ by the CQC, we’re committed to providing the best possible care to people across Berkshire.
We value diversity and are proud to be a Stonewall Top 100 Employer. We work hard to create an inclusive environment where you’ll be supported by friendly and professional colleagues to flourish.

Qualified Nurse with current NMC registration
A comprehensive understanding of Community Nursing
Experience of manging a team of staff
An active mentor / supervisor
Suitable qualification for university entry
For further information about the role, please see attached job description and person specification. We strongly encourage you to review how you meet the criteria in the person specification and write about this point-by-point in your supporting statement for the best chance of being shortlisted. For further application tips – see the help with your application document attached once you click apply.
If you’re someone who shares our passion for excellence and care, you belong at Berkshire Healthcare! We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of any protected characteristics. Reasonable adjustments will be made for disabled applicants where required