Hello everyone!

I am reaching out to highlight an important matter concerning the revalidation of the university's nursing courses this year, an issue that directly impacts the identity and integrity of the undergraduate Master of Nursing (MN) Dual Field programme. The proposed restructuring of the programme raises significant concerns, as it introduces a model allowing students to exit in their third year with a Bachelor's degree in a single field—determined by their primary field of choice at the time of application. Under this structure, students would complete three years of placements in their primary field and only one year in their secondary field.

This shift undermines the essence of the Dual Field programme, which has long been characterised by its current "flip-flop" placement model. This model equips students with the unique ability to develop a strong professional identity as Dual Field-trained nurses, confidently and competently practicing across both fields. The comprehensive and balanced exposure to both fields is a key feature that distinguishes this programme and attracts students to Southampton.

While the proposed changes include increased field-specific modules, these benefits can coexist with the current placement structure. The alternating placements are crucial for integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience across both fields, enabling students to consolidate and compare their learning in real-life and impactful ways.

Beyond academic considerations, this proposed change risks eroding the unique identity of Dual Field-trained students—a core aspect we have strived to cultivate throughout our time in the MN programme. This shift would not only undermine the progress we have collectively achieved over the past few years but also hinder students’ confidence and competence in their secondary field of practice. Entering the secondary field for the first time in the fourth year would significantly limit the depth of care students can provide, as their practical experience in this field would be minimal.

As we are all aware, theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient in preparing nurses for the complexities of real-world practice. Each patient presents unique challenges that cannot be fully addressed through textbooks or classroom learning. Without sustained and meaningful exposure to both fields during placements, the ability to deliver high-quality, well-rounded care is inevitably compromised.

Lastly, the removal of the "flip-flopping" aspect of the Dual Field programme threatens to diminish the prestige that sets Southampton apart as a leader in nursing education. This unique model, which provides balanced and comprehensive training across two fields, is a key factor that attracts prospective students seeking an exceptional and distinctive learning experience. Without it, the programme risks becoming indistinguishable from those offered at other universities, thereby losing its competitive edge. Prospective applicants who value the opportunity to develop dual-field expertise may look elsewhere, leading to a decline in applications and weakening Southampton's reputation as an innovator in nursing education. Preserving this model is essential to maintaining the university’s standing as a top choice for aspiring Dual Field-trained nurses.

If you share these concerns and value preserving the distinctive identity of the Dual Field Nursing programme, I urge you to sign the petition to advocate for its continuation. Although these changes do not affect us, together, we can ensure that future nursing students benefit from this exceptional and holistic training model.