The Health Minister, Robbie Butler MLA, visited Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry campus to see first-hand how students are being prepared for careers in nursing and paramedic science.
The visit highlighted Ulster University’s contribution to developing Northern Ireland’s future health and social care workforce, showcasing how innovative teaching, simulation-based learning and hands-on clinical training prepare students to deliver safe, effective and person-centred care in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.
How does Ulster University prepare students for careers in nursing and paramedic science?
Students benefit from specialist facilities, including a simulated ambulance and hospital ward environments equipped with patient manikins, allowing them to develop and practise essential clinical skills in realistic healthcare scenarios before entering professional practice.
Hosted by Ulster University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew and Professor Victor Gault, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, the Minister enjoyed interactive nursing teaching, clinical skills demonstrations and a roundtable discussion with staff and students.
During an interactive nursing tutorial focusing on Type 2 diabetes, the Minister observed students applying their understanding of disease processes to realistic scenarios, demonstrating how problem-solving, critical thinking, and clinical reasoning are embedded within their education to prepare them for decision-making in clinical practice.
How does simulation-based learning prepare nursing and paramedic students for clinical practice?
The programme also included a visit to the faculty’s Simulated Interprofessional Learning Centre, where the Minister engaged with students undertaking a simulated skills session. Using advanced patient manikins that replicate realistic clinical conditions and responses, students experienced scenarios designed to reflect the complexities of real-life healthcare situations.
Through supervised skills development and simulated clinical experiences, nursing and paramedic science students develop the confidence, competence and professional judgement required to deliver safe, compassionate care, while recognising the importance of effective communication, teamwork and involving patients and families in decisions about their care.
The visit provided an opportunity for staff and students to engage directly with the Minister, sharing their experiences of nursing and paramedic education, their aspirations for future careers and their perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing Northern Ireland's health and social care system.
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Ulster University Vice-Chancellor said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Health Minister Robbie Butler to our Derry~Londonderry campus today to meet with our staff and students and showcase the vital role Ulster University plays in preparing the next generation of nurses and paramedics.
“Through a combination of academic excellence and hands-on clinical experience, we equip our students with the knowledge, skills and compassion needed to meet the evolving needs of Northern Ireland’s health and social care system.
“Despite the significant pressures facing our health service, it is encouraging to see so many committed students pursuing careers where they can make a real difference to people’s lives. Many are driven by personal experiences and a genuine desire to help others, and we have a responsibility to nurture that ambition and prepare them for the challenges and rewards of caring for patients.
“Today’s visit is also an important opportunity for our students to share their experiences, ideas and aspirations directly with the Minister. Their voices matter in conversations about the future of healthcare, and we want to ensure they feel empowered to contribute to the decisions that will shape the services they one day work in.”
Health Minister Robbie Butler said:
“I welcomed the opportunity to visit Ulster University’s Derry/Londonderry campus, tour its facilities including the impressive Skills Lab, and meet both students and staff to hear about their own experiences.
“I will never cease to be inspired by the dedication and compassion shown by those seeking to work in our Health & Social Care system. As students, you are being expertly equipped with the right skills to ensure you can make a real difference in the lives of so many people across Northern Ireland. You are the leaders of the future and will play an important role as we work to transform health and social care. I wish you all every success.”
Maria, a third-year adult nursing student at Ulster University who took part in the roundtable discussion, said:
"I really valued the opportunity to meet the Health Minister and share our experiences and hopes for our future careers. Through our placements, we see the difference compassionate nursing care makes to patients and families, alongside the pressures staff face every day.
"As I prepare to qualify, it means a lot to have our voices heard and discuss how we can be supported to grow in confidence and provide the care our communities need. The visit was a valuable opportunity to hear his perspective on the future of healthcare in Northern Ireland and reflect on our own part in that future."
Interested in a career in nursing or paramedic science?
Discover how Ulster University can help you take the first step towards a rewarding career in health and social care, with courses combining academic learning, hands-on skills training and real-world clinical experience.
Find out more about courses and entry requirements at School of Nursing and Paramedic Science | Faculty of Life and Health Sciences
