Train to be a nurse with the class of 2026
Published: 10 July 2025
Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust and The Open University are working together again to offer people the opportunity to study and train to become a nurse.
The successful partnership, which was launched last summer, has so far resulted in 25 people studying for a BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing Degree at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust.
The search is now on for the next cohort of future nurses to begin their studies from February 2026. People can study from home without the need to commute to university, and Torbay and South Devon will guarantee all clinical placements across its acute and community settings.
It’s the perfect opportunity for anyone who has ever considered nursing or knows someone who has, but maybe the time wasn’t right or they didn’t meet the entry criteria, or has family or caring responsibilities.
Applicants will need a GCSE in maths and English at grade C/4 or equivalent (such as functional skills level 2) to be considered.
People who have completed healthcare-related modules or qualifications at higher education level within the past 10 years (such as a registered nursing associate, assistant practitioner, a Diploma of Higher Education, Higher Apprenticeship or a degree programme), may be able to count that study towards The Open University’s Pre-Registration Nursing Programme, helping to accelerate their path to becoming a Registered Nurse.
Those interested can find out more about the course, entry requirements, funding arrangements and any other questions by talking to Torbay and South Devon’s clinical education team at open days:
- Thursday 17 July, 6 to 8pm, MSTeams
- Friday 18 July, 6 to 8pm, Torbay Hospital
- Saturday 19 July, 10am to midday, Torbay Hospital
Student nurse Milie Hammer previously worked as a domestic at Torbay Hospital and felt inspired to train to become a nurse after watching nurses at work. She said: “Watching the nurses confirmed to me that it was something that I wanted to do.
“I got a student loan which gives me the flexibility to do a degree and look after my family. I’m really enjoying it; it’s so important to invest in your future and it opens up a lot of doors, especially to people in my situation.
“I always thought it was out of my reach or I’m not smart enough, but I have got over it and the possibilities are endless.”
Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust’s Chief Nurse, Nicola McMinn said: “Our nurses are the backbone of our NHS and I am incredibly proud to work alongside such a diverse and compassionate team.
“Being a nurse is the best job in the world and I would encourage anyone who has ever dreamt of being a nurse to take their first step towards fulfilling their dream by applying to study with the Open University.
“Growing our nursing and midwifery workforce is incredibly important to ensure that we can continue to deliver our promise of better health and care for all. This is an exciting opportunity for people in Torbay and South Devon to study for their nursing degree without having to commute, meaning they can study alongside any other caring responsibilities you may have. We will also guarantee all of your clinical placements with us, giving you a unique insight into providing care for people in our community.”
Please email our Pre-registration nursing team, call 01803 656677 or see our Pre-registration nursing degree programme for more information.
You can learn more about Millie by watching the film below about her dream to become a nurse.