Leah
Building Confidence and Skills Through the Foundation Year
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If you lack confidence and want a supportive progression, the foundation year is perfect – it’s never too late.
Finding My Way into Nursing
I first heard about the Foundation Year online and realised it could be an alternative route into university without A-levels. I already knew I wanted to study Adult Nursing but didn’t yet have the qualifications to go straight into the degree. The Foundation Year gave me the pathway I needed to get started and build my confidence in an academic environment.
When I attended an Open Day, the team at USW pointed me in the right direction. It was a lot to take in, but it helped me understand my options. Seeing the facilities and talking to staff reassured me that I’d made the right choice.
Find your courseConfidence, Support and Academic Skills
The Foundation Year was entirely classroom-based, which really suited me. The smaller groups and supportive lecturers made the learning experience personal and approachable. I felt comfortable asking questions, building relationships with my tutors, and gaining the confidence I needed to succeed. The lecturers and library team guided us through essay writing, referencing, and research - everything that would prepare us for degree-level study.
Now that I’ve progressed onto Adult Nursing, I can see how much the Foundation Year prepared me. It gave me the academic grounding, structure, and confidence to take the next step. I’m excited to start placements and continue developing the practical skills I’ll need to work in healthcare. For anyone considering the Foundation Year, my advice is simple: go for it. It’s a great stepping stone if you’re unsure or lacking confidence. The support is incredible, the teaching is personal, and it really does set you up for a full degree.
Employability and Careers