TUS Athlone Sign Deal To Expand Opportunities For Nursing Students

The Technological University of the Shannon has signed an agreement with intellectual disability support provider St Hilda’s Services to expand placement opportunities for nursing students.

Nursing students at TUS Athlone will have more placement opportunities, as part of a new agreement.

The Technological University of the Shannon has signed a deal with St. Hilda's Services to give students greater insight into community healthcare practices and values.

Those enrolled in Mental Health Nursing and General Nursing undergo multiple clinical placements throughout their degrees.

TUS says the demand for nursing professional with skills in community-led care is on the rise.

The signing of the memorandum of understanding marks St. Hilda's 60th year in service.

TUS Athlone students gain hands-on experience across a variety of healthcare settings, under supervision.

CEO of St Hilda’s Services Sheila Buckley Byrne expressed enthusiasm about cementing the partnership, anticipating mutual benefit for both institutions:

"On behalf of St Hilda’s Services, we welcome the establishment of this partnership through the signing of the memorandum of understanding today. It confirms our shared values of collaboration, inclusion and professionalism which will serve to enhance the experience of the individuals we support going forward. In this, our 60th year of service in the community, we continue to reflect and learn to become better practitioners through our engagement with TUS."

TUS Clinical Allocations Manager Anne Cooney explained the importance of these placements, stating, "Community clinical placements are an essential component of nursing education, providing students with the opportunity to gain exposure to community nursing care and develop insight, understanding, knowledge and skills in this unique learning environment."

"In particular, community placements in the field of intellectual disability (ID) can provide students with a unique perspective on the care of individuals with ID, as well as the opportunity to develop specialised skills in this area," she added.