Shelby, our third-year midwifery student, shares how her journey on the Midwifery BSc (Hons) course has transformed her understanding of midwifery from a simple idea of "delivering babies" to a deeply impactful role that empowers families during life’s most significant moments.
Shelby, a third-year midwifery student, reflects on how her understanding of midwifery has transformed since joining the program in 2023. “I came in with very little knowledge, and a lot of people think midwifery is just about delivering babies,” But as she’s learned, the role is far deeper than that. “Midwifery is about supporting women and their families to make informed decisions about their bodies, babies, and futures.” This commitment to both the clinical and emotional aspects of care has defined Shelby’s experience, allowing her to support families during one of the most significant times of their lives.
"If you love learning, have a curious mind, and want to provide safe, evidence-based care that truly makes a difference, then this course is definitely for you."
— Shelby Sharrocks Midwifery BSc (Hons) Student
Shelby highlights the hands-on experience and the incredible support she’s received throughout her course, made possible by our state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated staff. “The equipment and facilities available to us are amazing,” she says. “The skills labs are set up just like real clinical settings, and our lecturers encourage us to practice and build our confidence at every step.” Guest lectures from respected industry experts, 24-hour library access, and academic support through resources like WISER have been key aspects in shaping Shelby’s journey, helping her build both practical skills and academic knowledge.
The dedication of our midwifery lecturers has also been instrumental in Shelby’s success. “The midwifery lecturers are amazing, and I can’t speak highly enough about each of them,” she shares. Working closely with students across both the Preston and Burnley campuses, the staff create a supportive environment where each student is encouraged to reach their full potential. “They want you to feel confident in your own progression and are always there to help you grow as both a student and as an individual,” says Shelby. “The lecturers here are truly inspiring.”
Reflecting on her placements, Shelby describes how they have helped her develop both as a future midwife and as an individual. “Over the last three years, my placements have been so beneficial to my clinical and theoretical learning,” she explains. In her second year, she gained unique insights through a placement in reproductive services, an experience that expanded her emotional intelligence and clinical understanding. “That placement really empowered me,” she recalls, “and it’s given me the confidence to approach my future career with understanding and empathy.” As she enters her final months at the University of Central Lancashire, Shelby is excited for what lies ahead and confident that her time here has prepared her for a rewarding future in midwifery.
Where next?
- Article
How to become a midwife
- Course
Midwifery, BSc (Hons)
