Patients and healthcare professionals in Wales urged to help shape practice learning for next generation of nurses and midwives

Since launching its UK-wide public consultation in April, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has received more than 4,000 responses – including nearly 200 people in Wales.

Nurses are the largest group of respondents in Wales so far, with 168 taking part.

The consultation is seeking views on a range of thought-provoking proposals designed to strengthen practice learning and modernise education standards for future nurses, midwives. These include:

• Reducing the minimum number of hours required for nursing programmes from 4,600 to 3,600 hours
• Extending midwifery programmes from three to four years
• Strengthening anti-racism and cultural competence in education
• Ensuring all nursing students complete a community-based practice learning placement.

Ahead of the consultation closing on 23 July, the NMC is calling for more people in Wales to comment on the proposals, so that any final changes are informed by the diverse perspectives of people from across the UK.

One of the proposals focuses on whether student midwives should be required to complete a final consolidation placement of at least eight weeks before completing their education programmes.

In Wales, research shows all Approved Education Institutions (AEIs) already provide this, giving students an extended opportunity to integrate into midwifery teams, receive consistent supervision, build confidence and prepare for registration.

Dr Sam Donohue, Executive Director of Nursing, Health Professions and Quality at Health Education and Improvement Wales, said:

“The NMC’s practice learning review provides an important opportunity to help shape the future of nursing and midwifery education.

“I would encourage healthcare organisations, education providers, professionals, students, members of the public and others across Wales to take part in the consultation and ensure that Welsh perspectives are reflected in the future standards.

“By sharing our experiences and expertise, we can help shape a workforce that continues to meet the needs of the people and communities we serve.” 

The proposals follow two years of extensive research involving students, professionals, educators, practice learning partners and members of the public. During 2025 alone, the NMC held 25 engagement events attended by more than 1,250 people across the UK.

Evidence gathered by the regulator found that while many students report having positive experiences, the quality of practice learning can vary.

The consultation therefore asks whether changes are needed to ensure future nurses and midwives are consistently equipped with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to deliver high-quality, person-centred care for people.

Professor Donna O’Boyle MBE, Acting Executive Director of Professional Practice at the NMC, said:

“Practice learning is where the next generation of nurses and midwives develop the confidence and competence they need to deliver safe and effective care throughout their careers.

“With just one month left, we are encouraging patients, healthcare professionals, students, educators and members of the public across Wales to have their say and help shape these important decisions.

“Wales is already demonstrating good practice in this area, with all Approved Education Institutions providing student midwives with a final consolidation placement. We want to hear from as many people as possible, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, so we
can ensure any changes best prepare students for the realties of modern practice.”

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