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Placements at the Grange and Royal Gwent exposed me to complex surgery, paediatrics and emergency C-sections.
From dental chair to operating table
Back in 1993 I qualified as a dental nurse at Heath Park in Cardiff. During that course I shadowed under general anaesthetic, and the moment I stepped into theatre I knew it was where I belonged. Family commitments meant putting the dream on hold, but when my son graduated from the University of South Wales I decided it was time. I lived close to the Pontypridd campus, read the ODP prospectus and loved the focus on anatomy, physiology and the “why” behind every decision. I applied, prepared hard for the interview and secured my place.
Open Day visits confirmed I’d chosen well. USW now feels like a family university: cousins, my son, my daughter and, soon, me. The mock hospital, two purpose built theatres and supportive staff created the ideal bridge between classroom and clinical practice, giving me confidence long before my first placement.
Find your coursePlacements, skills and next steps
Yearone rotations in a three-theatre satellite hospital eased me into setting up an anaesthetic room. Year two placements at the Grange and Royal Gwent exposed me to complex surgery, paediatrics and emergency C-sections; an ITU block tested both my resilience and teamwork. Simulation days and OSCE scenarios - running an emergency list after heavy snow - honed leadership and critical thinking skills. Above all, I’ve learned how vital clear communication is for patient safety in theatre.
I’m now applying through NHS Streamlining to the health board that trained me. Three years of support have shaped me into an autonomous practitioner, and I’m eager to give back. My advice to new students is simple: manage your time, submit drafts early and lean on the lecturers - they’ll always make space to help you succeed.
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