Matthew Williams

Finding my passion for Learning Disability Nursing 

Studying Learning Disability Nursing at the University of South Wales has been an eye-opening and rewarding experience. The course has provided me with incredible opportunities to gain hands-on experience through placements, specialist training sessions, and industry engagement. 

Placements have been a key part of my learning. I’m about to start my fifth, having already worked in a variety of settings, including a surgical ward, a special school, a community nursing team, and an assessment and treatment unit. My time with the community team in Mid Wales has been particularly impactful, giving me insight into how different healthcare professionals—dietitians, physiotherapists, and psychologists—work together to support patients. It’s also helped shape my future career aspirations, as I now hope to join that same team after graduating. 

The practical learning at USW has been just as valuable. The Clinical Simulation Centre has allowed me to practise key nursing skills in a safe environment. Recently, I completed training in urinary catheterisation, and I’ve also gained experience in interpreting ECGs—something I never fully understood before starting the course. These sessions build confidence by allowing us to make mistakes and refine our techniques before working with real patients. 

Building confidence during my studies

Beyond the technical skills, this course has transformed my confidence. A year ago, I would have been hesitant to engage with senior healthcare professionals, but now I feel comfortable taking the initiative. My advice to future students? Take every opportunity to learn—you’ll be surprised at how much you grow.