Return to midwifery

Overview of the programme Structure

This flexible and innovative programme has been developed by the RCM and is accredited by LSBU. It provides a rich opportunity for midwives who have been out of practice, to access a tailor-made programme to enable them to return to practice with confidence and competence.  
Applying to undertake the programme

Steps for you to take:

1. Contact the RCM who will advise you where to send your Curriculum Vitae (CV) The CV needs to include details such as when you qualified as a midwife, how long you were in midwifery practice, and what work/practice you have been engaged in during that time.

2. The RCM will send a letter advising you of the number of hours of clinical practice requirement – this is usually 450 hours in accordance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) PREP requirement.

3. Complete the RCM RTP  application form

4. Contact your local Head or Director of Midwifery Services – to secure clinical practice placement and funding for the course

5. If you are unsure about your registration status contact the NMC for further clarification

What next?

Once you have secured a clinical placement and completed the above process contact the RCM for further details and dates for the commencement of the next course cohort.

Programme Structure
   
Midwives returning to practice will receive the 'Returning to Midwifery Practice' programme pack, which includes a study skills package, additional learning resources, four books of programme material, student handbook and the clinical assessment documentation. The materials will be utilised throughout the programme; alongside other reference and research resources, and in parallel with the clinical placements to encourage the integration of theory and clinical practice.
   
   
There will be two tutor facilitated days at the start of the programme. This is designed to introduce you to the open learning approach,  the programme materials and familiarisation with virtual resources provided at London South Bank University ( LSBU). You will also receive support in planning your studies and have an excellent orientation to current changes and developments in the NHS.
   
During the programme there will be  four additional tutor facilitated days, provided by, and at the RCM. These days will provide you with an opportunity to reflect on your clinical practice, develop your knowledge and skills further, and to explore the programme material in further depth. There will also be plenty of support for the development and completion of your assignments for assessment.

You are required to complete a professional portfolio of experience as part of the programme. You will be supported to develop and maintain this portfolio, which is an essential part of maintaining personal and professional development.  Please note that there is no formal assessment or accreditation of the portfolio, but it is an essential component of the programme.

At the end of the programme, you will be required to take the final theory assessment, which is an unseen 2  hour examination, that will take place at RCM Headquarters. In addition you will be required to complete the clinical assessment document and submit a case study which reflects the antenatal, intrapartum and postpartum care given to a woman. This case study is no longer than 2500 words.
   
Teaching and learning strategies
   
The RCM believes in excellence in midwifery practice and education.  This excellence will be achieved through research, critical thinking and reflection in and on practice.
   
This philosophy is reflected in the programme material, the learning activities in the clinical environment and the classroom. All assessments, which are core to the teaching and learning strategy, have been designed to enable you to develop your critical thinking and your skills of reflection.
   
The study guide and work books are part of the programme material, and are designed to enable and support your learning.
   
Your Mentor

Each student is allocated an RCM RTP mentor who will provide support and guidance during the clinical practice placement. The mentor must have attended an initial RCM mentor’s study day, and then an annual update study day. These days are organised by the RCM on demand and are free to attend.

Programme cost

The cost of the programme is £1,000.00 this fee includes the costs for external examiner, assessment processes and registration with LSBU.


Flow chart of the RTP Application process