University of Stirling and Forth Valley College Tests of Change
Driving sustainable change for nurses and midwives across Scotland.
Explore the Stirling University and Forth Valley College Tests of Change - innovative projects designed to trial new approaches in nursing and midwifery education and workforce development.
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Be the Difference
2025 / 2026 Tests of Change
Development of an Enhanced Pathway for Entry to Year 1 Pre-Registration Nursing
Forth Valley College (FVC) experiences high levels of demand for SCQF Level 6 and 7 health and social care programmes, with applicants who meet FVC entry criteria unable to commence their future studies and placed onto waiting lists. Developing this Fast Track programme will alleviate these delays to student progression and support the distinct needs of these learners to progress into higher education in a timely manner.
Photo credit: Image source Stirling University website.
This Test of Change will support the development and implementation of an enhanced guaranteed pathway into Year One of the BSc Nursing Programme at the University of Stirling (UoS). The Fast Track Programme is an intensive 18-week programme aimed at preparing eligible learners for entry into Year 1 of the BSc Nursing Programme (Adult or Mental Health). This will enable proactive activity to increasing widening participation and future workforce planning in the nursing profession. University of Stirling admissions are adopting an innovative approach by being supportive of the value of vocational qualifications and will recognise the Fast Track programme qualification. This qualification will be converted via equivalency tools to reflect two Highers to assist entry to the BSc Nursing Programme. The aim will be to increase student recruitment to Year 1 BSc Nursing and to maintain and enhance retention rates and academic attainment of college students.
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