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Dawn Brenchley Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) Public Health Practice: Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (SCPHN), 2016

Dawn Brenchley's Photo

Hi, I'm Dawn Brenchley and I studied Public Health Practice: Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (SCPHN) at the University of Southampton.

I have already studied for a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Practice at the University of Southampton and as such, I am familiar with the University and know first-hand it has a good reputation.

What made you select the University of Southampton for your postgraduate study?

I have already studied for a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Practice at the University of Southampton and as such, I am familiar with the University and know first-hand it has a good reputation.

What is Southampton like as a place to study?

The University of Southampton has excellent facilities and is a great place to study. The Hartley Library is a great resource and the staff are very helpful.

What did you enjoy about the course?

I thoroughly enjoyed the diversity of the taught elements of the course, the opportunity to meet new people, combined with time spent in practice.

How useful did you find your clinical placements?

Excellent. I was very fortunate that I was welcomed in my clinical placement and gained invaluable experience whilst there.

What is your current profession?

I am currently working as a Health Visitor with Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.

How do your experiences of clinical placements support your current profession?

Clinical placements provide experience to develop skills, confidence and apply evidence-based practice.

What have been the highlights of your career to date?

Achieving my BSc Clinical Practice 4 years ago and qualifying as a Health Visitor with this postgraduate study.

Do you have any plans for your future career progression?

I am keen to top up my postgraduate diploma that I have just achieved to a MSc Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Studies with the University of Southampton next year.

What tips would you give to current students looking to start a career in your sector? What could they be doing now to make themselves more employable when they graduate?

Gain some work experience, and speak to people who are already in the role; this will help to provide you with an insight into daily practices within a healthcare environment.

What advice would you give to a student starting their postgraduate study at Southampton?

I would say plan well, give yourself time to study and take time out regularly to relax. Also enjoy it because the time passes quickly!

What are you most proud of?

I am really proud of me and my colleagues who have graduated, as we have all worked hard and some individuals have overcome additional challenges outside of study.

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