From Access Course to Qualified Nurse

Gemma is now thriving as a qualified nurse after completing the SWAP Access to Nursing course at UHI Argyll.

Gemma Reid, who completed the SWAP Access to Nursing course in 2021-22, is now approaching her first full year as a qualified nurse, a milestone she describes as both surreal and deeply rewarding. Her story reflects exactly what the Access programme is designed to do: open doors, build confidence and support learners of all ages into meaningful careers.

Returning to education as an older student and a parent of two young children was, as Gemma puts it, “a huge decision”. Balancing study, family life and the everyday realities of being a parent often felt challenging, but she knew she was working towards a future she genuinely wanted.

Starting the SWAP Access to Nursing course marked the turning point. Gemma highlights the guidance she received with the university application process as one of the most valuable aspects of the programme. After time away from education, UCAS felt daunting, but step‑by‑step support choosing universities, completing applications, and writing personal statements made the process manageable and far less overwhelming.

“Having that guidance gave me the confidence to apply and believe that university really was an option for me.” 

There were late nights, moments of self‑doubt and plenty of juggling, but the Access course helped Gemma rebuild her academic confidence and prepare for university life. From completing the course to securing a place at university, graduating with her nursing degree, and now working as a qualified nurse, she’s proud of how far she has come.

“I’m still learning and growing every day, but I’m doing a job that I’m genuinely proud of.” 

More importantly, she hopes her journey shows her children that it’s never too late to change direction or pursue a goal. Being an older student, and a parent, didn’t hold her back. In her words, “it became part of the reason I was so determined to achieve it.”

Gemma’s story is a powerful example of how the SWAP Access to Nursing programme supports learners to take the first step towards a career in healthcare.