Student nursing associates (SNAs) are at the heart of a new role introduced in England to help bridge the gap between registered nurses and health care support workers.

The first student cohort began in early 2017 as part of a national pilot programme, with around 2,000 SNAs starting that year. Since then, the numbers have grown significantly, with thousands more joining through apprenticeships and other approved training routes.

The nursing associate (NA) role is now regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), with the first NAs added to the register in January 2019.

Here at the RCN, we have been closely involved in the development of the role, working with the NMC, NHS England (formerly Health Education England), and training sites across the country. We continue to engage in consultations and shape how the role is implemented and supported.

We welcome SNAs as members of the RCN and are continuing to develop services and support for qualified NAs. Find out more about our student membership offer.

RCN consultations

We remain actively engaged in responding to NMC consultations on standards, the Code and professional guidance related to NAs.

Although the core regulatory framework is in place, it continues to evolve. That’s why we regularly consult our members — including NAs and SNAs — to shape our responses and ensure their views are reflected in national decision-making.