Student Advisory Network
Have your voice heard. Shape the future. Make change happen.
Applications now open
The Student Advisory Network is intended to be a diverse, UK‑wide network of healthcare students who work alongside the Council to bring real student perspectives into national conversations about health and social care education, leadership and policy. We are looking for thoughtful and curious students from across programmes in nursing, midwifery and the allied health professions, especially those who ask difficult questions, challenge the status quo and want to help make things better for future cohorts – it’s about influence, learning, and making meaningful contributions.
The Student Advisory Network brings together up to 20 students from across the four nations, representing different professions, backgrounds and lived experiences. Members serve for up to two years, with flexible arrangements in place.
Members will:
- Share student insight on key issues affecting health and social care education
- Contribute to discussions that inform policy, strategy and future priorities
- Work collaboratively with peers and senior leaders
- Help shape national events and initiatives
- Meet virtually during the year, with at least one in-person meeting in London (travel support will be provided). Upcoming meeting dates will be 10 September 2026 (in person event), 2 December 2026, 24 February 2027, 2 June 2027
Why apply?
Influence real work
- Opportunities to engage directly with policy and consultation work
- Feed student perspectives into national discussions and decision‑making
- Contribute ideas that help shape future initiatives and events
Learn and develop
- Access to leadership development sessions, designed to build confidence, influence and skills you can use beyond the role
- Insight into how national bodies work, and how change happens at system level
Be visible and heard
- Opportunities to speak at events and conferences
- Write blogs or thought pieces for the Council’s website showcasing student perspectives
Be recognised
- A certificate of participation acknowledging your commitment
- A formal letter of acknowledgement outlining your contribution and skills developed
- Experience and evidence you can use for applications, portfolios and interviews
Who can apply?
We want to have as representative a group of students as possible. We welcome applications from students undertaking pre-registration courses:
- Students currently on pre-registration programmes with at least one year remaining (undergraduate or postgraduate)
- You should be studying at one of the Council’s member institutions
- Range of professions from nursing, midwifery and allied health professions (Art Therapists; Dietitians; Drama Therapists; Music Therapists; Occupational Therapists; Operating Department Practitioners; Orthoptists; Osteopaths; Paramedics: Physiotherapists; Podiatrists; Prosthetists and Orthotists; Radiographers; Speech and Language Therapists)
- Applicants from across the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Mature students and students with caring responsibilities
- Ethnically minoritised students
- Students with lived experience of a disability
You don’t need prior leadership or policy experience — just a willingness to speak up, listen, learn, and contribute!
How to apply
You will need to complete an online application form in order to apply for the Student Advisory Network. Should you require the application form in an alternative format, please let us know by 25 June.
The deadline for applications will be Monday 29 June 2026. Applications after this time will not be considered. You should expect to hear from us by Friday 17 July 2026, regardless of the outcome.
Applicants who are shortlisted will be invited to an online group interview on the week commencing 27 July 2026.