NMC responds to Florence Nightingale Foundation preceptorship report

Responding to the report, Anne Trotter, Assistant Director of Education and Standards at the NMC, said:

“It’s encouraging to see that the majority of newly registered nurses and midwives are now being offered preceptorship programmes. Preceptorship plays a vital role in helping these professionals integrate into their teams, build confidence, and apply the Code effectively in their day-to-day practice. It also fosters a strong sense of belonging early in their careers, which is key to their ongoing development and retention.

“Despite this progress, the report highlights important areas for action and improvement. Access to preceptorship remains inconsistent, particularly for internationally educated professionals, and the quality of guidance and support available varies across organisations. Many preceptors report feeling unprepared for their role, which can impact the experience and confidence of the preceptees they support. High-quality preceptorship is essential for safe and effective care - this requires sufficient preparation and resources, and adequate support and oversight by employer organisations for all those involved.

“At the NMC, our Principles of Preceptorship set clear expectations to ensure structured, tailored support that meets the needs of newly registered professionals. Embedding these principles consistently across all health and social care settings is crucial to delivering effective preceptorship that benefits professionals and the people in their care.”

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