Search results
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Job description guidance
Guidance for employers on nursing associates
Updated: 24 April 2022 -
Defining nursing support workers and their level descriptors
These definitions have been developed as a collaboration between the RCN Professional Nursing Committee and the Nursing Support Workers Committee, facilitated by a Joint Partnership Board and with support from the RCN Professional Forums and Fellows.
Updated: 2 May 2026 -
Four pillars of nursing
The concept of the four pillars is referred to across nursing publications by respective departments of health in the UK and other health care professionals. The order of the pillars and terms for each vary, but all have the essence of Clinical Practice, Education, Research and Leadership.
Updated: 5 September 2025 -
Consultant
Consultant level nursing practice describes a level which can only be delivered by registered nurses who have progressed from an advanced level within their field to reach a significantly higher level.
Updated: 10 July 2026 -
Advanced
Advanced level nursing describes a level which can only be delivered by registered nurses with substantial experience and expertise.
Updated: 9 July 2026 -
Enhanced
Enhanced level nursing describes a level that can only be delivered by registered nurses who have gained additional post-registration education and experiential learning in a relevant subject area.
Updated: 10 July 2026 -
Webinar Hub - Professional Services
Watch our webinars designed to showcase RCN's professional development and ELD.
Updated: 8 April 2025 -
King’s Nursing Cadet Scheme
Take the first step toward a career in nursing
Updated: 20 February 2026 -
Levels for the registered nurse
Setting standards of practice from the nursing support worker to the consultant nurse.
Updated: 3 July 2026 -
Josef's Nursing Cadet Experience
Josef McGuigan, a Nursing Cadet, gives his experience as part of the scheme's first ever cohort in Northern Ireland.
Updated: 20 February 2026
