Blog: Jenna’s unexpected journey to a first class nursing degree

Jenna Nightingale, student rep for her course, has recently completed her degree at the University in Learning Disability Nursing with a first class classification. The incredible journey of Jenna from feeling that university was a far-fetched dream to her confidently completing her course with the highest grade is shared below in Jenna’s own words.

“My journey began after completing training to become a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant and taking parental leave to become a carer for my son who has additional needs. I first began by taking the leap to complete a foundation year. I had been out of education for some years and as a mature student, I wanted to better prepare myself for the road ahead. I also had, at this point, not decided on what career path I wanted to take. 

Initially, I assumed I would choose Adult Nursing, but then I stumbled upon Learning Disability Nursing. I knew from the moment I read the characteristics of the role that I had found my path. I wasn't disappointed! I completed and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the foundation year and soon settled into student life. I found the whole process of applying through Clearing an easy one to navigate. 

During year one, our study time was split 50/50 between placement and University teaching time. I had the opportunity to meet new friends and develop a support network. 

Year two was considerably more challenging due to the impact of COVID-19 on our studies and time in placement. I soon settled into a new way of learning and once my feet were back on the ground, it was full steam ahead. We were needed more than ever. At times I had fears due to bringing COVID-19 home, which I did although fortunately without having any lasting health impacts on myself and my family.

I feel that all these additional challenges during the pandemic aided my development of being a more resilient student and future nurse. At the end of year 2, and after the passing of my Mom, I decided to take a leave of absence so that I could concentrate on healing. During this time my course lead, Lynne Westwood, and my personal tutor, Sean Ledington, were a great tower of strength and guided me until I was ready for my return. I would urge any student considering giving up that it is ok to step off but do so with guidance from the University team so that the transition back is a smooth one. 

After taking a short break, I returned for year 3 eager, excited, and ready to tackle what at times felt impossible. I soon realised I would need to apply my all. I finished my degree with a first-class classification, and I was notified that I had been awarded the prestigious Dave Fisher Award which I was incredibly grateful for. Being dyslexic and leaving secondary school with limited GCSEs I had exceeded my own expectations thanks to the support of my friends, family, University colleagues and lecturers. I am proud of my fellow colleagues who practised during the most challenging times of nursing. 

Throughout the course, I had ample opportunity to learn, gain skills and improve my knowledge and understanding across a range of topics within nursing. I was also provided with a wide variety of clinical learning settings. Learning Disability Nursing practice is not a career in my opinion, it’s a lifelong commitment that you choose to do practising with love in your heart and pride in all you do. 

In the UK, there are estimated to be 1.5 million people known to services with a learning disability. Many die from considered preventable causes, are subjected to discrimination, and experience health inequalities that impact social detriments to health and wellbeing. 

I have never been prouder to be part of a workforce that can positively impact the lives and outcomes of people. I am very much looking forward to my future as a community learning disability nurse and my only hope is that others join the learning disability nursing workforce and continue to make positive lasting impacts.  I never imagined I would go to university, let alone secure a job that I feel so passionate about.”