Preparing for your first nursing job

Getting ready to start your nursing career

Congratulations on securing your first nursing position. Starting your career as a registered nurse is an exciting milestone, but it's natural to feel a mix of anticipation and nerves about this new chapter.

This guide will help you prepare for your first role, understand what support is available, and set yourself up for success in your nursing career.

Induction

When you start in a new job in health care, you should be offered an induction. This is an orientation and introduction to the workplace where you'll be informed of specific policies and procedures you need to follow. You should expect to be introduced to the team, learn more about the job, and be given time to settle in.

This is different from 'preceptorship', which is structured support specifically designed to help you transition to your first qualified clinical role.

Preceptorship programmes

We recognise that being an autonomous qualified nurse is quite different from being a student under direct supervision. Preceptorship provides ongoing, targeted support during this transition period to help you develop confidence and competence in your new role as a qualified nurse.

Most organisations should offer preceptorship programmes specifically designed for newly qualified nurses, following national preceptorship frameworks that recognise the importance of supporting new practitioners. These programmes acknowledge that transitioning from student to qualified practitioner is a significant step that requires structured support and are designed to ensure consistency across healthcare settings.

What do preceptorships provide?

Structured support in your first year

A planned programme that helps you develop confidence and competence in nursing practice with clear goals and regular reviews.

Additional education in complex scenarios

Enhanced preparation for clinical situations, emergency procedures, and complex patient care beyond your basic qualification.

Experienced nurse mentors

Regular one-to-one meetings with senior nurses who provide guidance, support, and feedback on your professional development.

Gradual increase in responsibility

A planned progression that gradually increases your patient caseload and clinical responsibilities as your confidence and skills develop.

Protected learning time

Dedicated time for reflection, study, and additional training to support your transition to qualified practice.

Making the most of your preceptorship

Be proactive

Take ownership of your learning and actively seek feedback from mentors and colleagues.

Ask questions

Don't hesitate to ask for clarification or support when you're unsure about anything in your practice.

Reflect on your experiences

Keep a learning journal to track your development and identify areas for further growth.

Set clear goals

Work with your preceptor to set specific, achievable objectives for your first year of practice.

Building your professional network

Creating connections with other nurses and healthcare professionals is crucial for your career development and ongoing support.

Professional memberships

Royal College of Nursing (RCN)

Join the RCN for union, career support, professional development opportunities, and access to the latest evidence-based guidance.

Specialist interest groups

Connect with nurses who share your interests in specific areas of practice.

Trade union membership

Consider union membership for professional indemnity, career support, and workplace representation.

Digital networking

Nursing and Nursing Associate Social Care Student and Early Careers Network

Join this network which connects student and registered nurses and nursing associates passionate about or wanting to learn about social care. Benefit from peer support, career and professional development opportunities and networking with like-minded professionals across England. 

Peer support groups

Set up or join social media groups to stay connected with fellow graduates. Remember to follow professional guidance about social media use.

Professional online communities

Join platforms like NHS Futures to collaborate and connect with nurses across different healthcare settings.

NHS communications

Sign up for Chief Nursing Officer updates and follow NHS and professional body social media accounts like @teamCNO_ to stay informed about developments in nursing.

Local networking

Staff networks

Participate in local nursing networks, professional forums, and special interest groups.

Multidisciplinary learning

Engage with wider healthcare teams to understand how nursing practice fits within the broader healthcare system.

Mentorship opportunities

Both seek mentors and consider how you might support future students as you gain experience.

Resources and ongoing support

Professional support services

University careers services

Many universities offer ongoing career support for graduates, including job search assistance and professional development guidance.

Employee assistance programmes

Most organisations offer confidential support services for staff wellbeing and career guidance.

Support available for NHS staff

We know working in the NHS can be stressful. Looking after yourself helps you provide better patient care and get through your studies. Your wellbeing matters. The NHS has a range of support available to help you throughout your NHS career:

• 24/7 Text Support – text SHOUT to 85258 for confidential support anytime
• Free NHS Self-Check Tool – find the right support option for your situation
• Additional Support – We offer a range of health and wellbeing resources tailored to different needs

National Guardian's Office

The National Guardian's Office supports healthcare workers across the NHS and independent sectors in speaking up about patient safety and quality concerns. They provide guidance on raising concerns professionally and accessing support when needed.

Learning resources

Online learning platforms

Use reputable websites and professional platforms for continuing education and career development like the NHS Learning Hub.

Library services

Access NHS library services and university resources to stay current with research and best practice.

Conference and study days

Attend local and national nursing conferences to learn and network with other professionals.

Peer support networks

Newly qualified groups

Connect with other newly qualified nurses in your organisation and neighbouring organisations.

Practice-based learning sets

Join or establish learning groups focused on specific aspects of nursing practice.

Supervision groups

Participate in clinical supervision and group reflection sessions to support your professional development.

Embracing your new role

Managing expectations

Be patient with yourself

Remember that becoming confident in your practice takes time, and every qualified nurse has been where you are now.

Focus on continuous learning

Approach each day as an opportunity to learn something new and develop your skills further.

Celebrate achievements

Acknowledge your successes, both big and small, as you provide person-centred care to patients and families.

Building confidence

Trust your education

You have successfully completed a rigorous nursing programme and have the foundation skills needed for safe practice.

Seek support when needed

Using available support systems shows professional maturity, not weakness.

Develop your own style

While learning from experienced colleagues, begin to develop your own approach to patient-centred care.

Looking ahead

Your nursing role provides an excellent foundation for progressing to become a registered nurse. Many nurses choose to pursue further education to advance their careers and expand their scope of practice.