Lyndsay on course to be 'exceptional nurse' after balancing University studies with being busy mum

Soon-to-be graduate Lyndsay McCormick has always wanted to be a nurse, and felt drawn to the BN Children’s Nursing course at the University of Chester as she wanted to care for children and families.

Lyndsay, 37 and from Upton, Wirral, has now spoken of the “amazing journey” she has been on during her time at the University, and her hopes for the future.

She said: “Balancing university with being a mum of three has certainly been challenging at times, but I’ve always wanted to show my children that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

“When I haven’t been on placement or at university, I’ve spent my time with them, making memories and being as present as possible. Studying late at night once they were in bed, and managing my time carefully, has really helped me to keep on top of everything. My children have been my biggest motivation, and I hope I’ve made them proud.”

Lyndsay added: “I really enjoyed the practical side, working alongside experienced nurses and healthcare teams, and caring directly for children and their families. Placements helped me to develop my confidence and skills, and the feedback I received from both families and staff was so encouraging. It confirmed to me that I had chosen the right career path. The hours were long, but it was definitely worth it.”

Looking back at other highlights, Lyndsay said: “The best part of my time at Chester has been the support I have received from lecturers and the friendships I have made along the way. Karen Blythe has been incredibly knowledgeable and very supportive, always offering guidance and advice, while Rebecca Bryson, my personal academic tutor, has also been a constant source of encouragement and support. I am truly grateful to them both, as they have played such a big part in helping me through my journey.

“Some of my highlights include meeting children and families on placement, celebrating at the Graduation Ball, and being awarded Most Academic Progress, which was a huge achievement for me. I am also proud of the wide range of skills and knowledge I have gained during the course – from developing confidence in clinical practice and delivering evidence-based care, to strengthening my communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills. These have prepared me to begin my nursing career with resilience and professionalism.

“I have truly loved my time at Chester, and it has been an amazing journey that has shaped both my personal and professional life.”

Karen Blythe, Child Field Senior Lecturer, said: “Lyndsay has been a pleasure to teach. I have witnessed firsthand her unwavering dedication to her studies. Lyndsay consistently attends with a positive attitude and a smile, fully engaging in every session. She approaches her learning with enthusiasm and is always an absolute pleasure to teach. Despite the demands of being a busy mum, Lyndsay remains committed to achieving her best academically.

“In clinical practice, Lyndsay truly shines. I have no doubt she will make an exceptional nurse. Placement teams have expressed they would gladly welcome her back at any time. Lyndsay is a remarkable role model for her peers.”

Looking ahead to what’s next, Lyndsay said: “I am very much looking forward to graduating and celebrating this milestone with my family. My hopes for the future are to keep developing, continue learning, and to make a positive difference to children and families.

“I am planning to stay at Chester for another year to study a Master’s in Mental Health Nursing so I can be qualified in both areas. This is something I am really passionate about, as I believe it will make me a stronger nurse with a better understanding of mental health, which is such an important part of practice. I would love the opportunity to work at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, as it is an amazing place and I really enjoyed my time there on placement.”

For more information about studying Nursing at Chester, visit: https://www.chester.ac.uk/study/nursing/ .