For International Nurses Day, Becky shares how she changed careers at 50 from teaching into learning disability nursing on the Isle of Wight, and why it is never too late to follow a new path.
Before becoming a nurse, Becky worked as a special education tutor and had already spent years supporting people through their individual learning journeys. But over time, she realised she wanted to do more.
“I wanted a more holistic role,” she explained. “One that was not just focused on education, but on health, wellbeing, communication and independence.”
That desire to support people more fully led her into learning disability nursing. She wanted to work more closely with people whose voices are not always heard and help make sure they are understood, valued and empowered in all areas of life, not only in the classroom.
Although teaching and nursing may seem like very different careers, she says many of the skills transferred naturally.
“Teaching gave me a strong foundation in patience, creativity and alternative communication,” she said. “It taught me how to break information down in different ways, adapt my approach to meet an individual’s needs and remain calm under pressure.”
Most importantly, her teaching background reinforced the importance of seeing the person behind the behaviour.
Now working with adults with learning disabilities, she says it is often the smaller moments that stay with her the most.
“Every small achievement can be significant,” she said. “Whether it is being there for someone at the most impactful moment of their life, advocating for them when they cannot be heard, or simply helping them feel more in control of their own choices.”
She describes it as a privilege to support people when they are at their most vulnerable.
“It is an honour to stand alongside them, to listen, to advocate and to help ensure their voice is always valued and respected.”
She also believes there are still misunderstandings about what learning disability nursing really involves.
“A common misunderstanding is that learning disability nursing is only about basic care or support,” she explained. “In reality, it is highly skilled, complex and deeply person centred.”
From advocacy and safeguarding to behavioural understanding and navigating health and social care systems, the role requires a wide range of expertise and compassion.
When asked what being a nurse means to her, she reflected on the trust placed in nurses during some of the most important moments in people’s lives.
“Being a nurse means being trusted to stand alongside people at some of the most vulnerable, and sometimes most joyful, moments of their lives,” she said. “It is about compassion in action, combining clinical skill with empathy, dignity and respect.”
For Becky, nursing is also about advocacy and making sure people are never overlooked.
“Nurses do not just provide care. They help shape how people experience their lives and their rights.”
For anyone considering a career change into nursing, her advice is simple.
“Believe the impossible is possible.”
Making the decision to retrain at 50 while raising her three daughters was not without challenges, but it also gave her a renewed sense of purpose.
“It reminded me that it is never too late to follow something that truly matters to you,” she said. “Life experience becomes one of your greatest strengths in nursing. It deepens your empathy, strengthens your resilience and shapes the way you connect with others.”
She is honest about the realities of the profession. Nursing can be challenging, often involving long shifts and pressure, but it can also be deeply rewarding.
“There will always be moments that stretch you, but also moments that stay with you forever in the most meaningful way.”
And perhaps the most important lesson she has learned is this:
“Nursing is not about being perfect. It is about being present, committed and willing to keep growing, both professionally and personally.”