This innovative course will enable the development of knowledge, deeper learning and understanding of the General Practice Nurse role for nurses new to primary care and wish to further enhance their clinical practice and leadership in their role.

This fully funded unit is an excellent opportunity for any nurse, recently employed in General Practice and working within the Wessex region to develop skills in the management of clients as a General Practice Nurse. Taught by Clinical Experts the course also includes an exploration of the context of Practice Nursing and of Primary Care, Clinical Governance, QoF and the role of Clinical Commissioning groups.

You will learn through attendance at interactive seminars, skills-based presentations and you’ll also build a portfolio of evidence from your practice. You’ll be supported throughout your study by lecturers, your peers and a mentor. During the unit you will develop the skills you need to function competently as a practice nurse including; leadership and management and the practice nurse role, Immunisation; Cervical cytology; Ear care; Wound management; ECG; Venepuncture; ECG.; Diagnostics / health screening; Venepuncture; Ear care; Immunisation / anaphylaxis; Cervical cytology; Sexual health / men & women’s health; Wound management/Infection control; Mental health / vulnerable clients / safeguarding; Long-term conditions.

The course runs over 6 months; studying two days a fortnight.

This course requires 100% attendance.

Normally students may enter Level 6 (degree level) study if they have been awarded:

• An Advanced Diploma, HND, Dip HE or Foundation Degree (awarded by a UK HEI or Edexcel or SQA)
• An equivalent qualification (the learning outcome of which are demonstrably appropriate in terms of knowledge, understanding and skills) equivalent to 120 credits at Level 5.

If you do not meet this criteria you are still able to apply for this unit but we may ask you to complete a study skills handbook to familiarise yourself with academic writing at degree level. The study skills handbook will be sent to you when we have received your application form.

Applicants that already have a degree may wish to consider applying for this unit at Level 7 (Master’s level).

Fees and funding:

This course cannot be self-funded - all funding is provided by NHS England. If your practice is in Hampshire & Isle of Wight; you must contact NHS England Hampshire & Isle of Wight Training Hub (england.primarycareschooltvw.se@nhs.net). If your practice is in Dorset you must contact; Dorset Primary Care Training Hub (traininghub@ourdorset.nhs.uk) before applying for this intake.

The assessment will comprise two parts (both of which must be passed):

• Part A is a written assignment 3,000 words
• Part B a structured portfolio 3,000 words

Having completed this unit the student is expected to:

1. Explore and reflect upon the current and future role of the General Practice Nurse  
2. Analyse the evidence base for the core competencies and professional clinical skills required to function as a GPN 
3. To critically approach the underpinning knowledge base required to function as a GPN working in the evolving healthcare setting of primary care. 
4. To appraise the professional knowledge and skills required for quality improvement and patient outcomes and fulfil the role of General Practice Nurse in the evolving and changing world of primary care nursing

Course review:

In order to take advantage of new approaches to learning and teaching, as well as developments in practice to benefit our students we regularly review all of our courses. This course is currently going through this process and we will update this page to give you full information about what we will be offering once the review process has concluded.  These changes will come into effect for all new students from September 2025. Applicants will be notified by our admissions team of any changes.