Professional Nurse Advocate programme
| Cost | Duration | Start date | Qualification | Delivery |
| £833.33 plus VAT | 6 months | April 2026 | 20 academic credits at Level 7 | Online |
The professional nurse advocate unit is designed to support the wellbeing and professional development of nurses, leading to improved patient care and retention within the healthcare system.
About this programme
This unit is open to Registered Nurses only, working in any sector including NHS or independent health and social care.
This unit provides registered nurses with the knowledge and skills to become professional nurse advocates (PNAs), supporting colleagues through restorative clinical supervision (RCS) and embedding the Advocacy and Supervision Framework (A-EQUIP) within healthcare settings. The programme equips nurses to enhance staff well-being, improve patient care, and drive quality improvement initiatives.
This unit will be delivered online over several months with 10 taught days.
In addition to the taught sessions, there will be self-directed learning, and assessments which must be completed and passed, to receive a certificate of completion. This equates to 200 hours learning time for this unit in total. Successful completion of the unit will gain you 20 credits at Level 7, accredited by Agored Cymru.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the Professional Nurse Advocate (PNA) role.
- Be able to apply the Advocacy and Supervision Framework (A-EQUIP) model.
- Be able to deliver restorative clinical supervision (RCS) in nursing teams.
- Be able to demonstrate leadership and advocacy skills.
- Be able to implement quality improvement.
- Be able to reflect on personal and professional growth.
For more information about the unit see:
Who is this programme suitable for?
This unit is open to Registered Nurses only, who hold current registration with the NMC.
Suitable for registered nurses working in any sector, including NHS or independent health and social care. This programme is open to both RCN members and non-members.
On successful completion of the programme you will gain 20 academic credits at Level 7.
Technology access:
All applicants will need access to a laptop or tablet with camera and microphone capability. A mobile phone will not be suitable.
Mode of delivery
This unit will be delivered online, over 10 days, on the following dates:
- Day 1 – Thursday 16 April 2026
- Day 2 – Thursday 30 April 2026
- Day 3 – Thursday 14 May 2026
- Day 4 – Thursday 28 May 2026
- Day 5 – Thursday 4 June 2026
- Day 6 – Thursday 18 June 2026
- Day 7 – Thursday 2 July 2026
- Day 8 – Thursday 16 July 2026
- Day 9 – Thursday 3 September 2026
- Day 10 – Thursday 17 September 2026
In addition to the taught sessions, there will be self-directed learning, and assessments which must be completed and passed, to receive a certificate of completion.
Assessment
Assessment will include a reflective portfolio and written assignment.
Assignment submission date: 22 October 2026
Cost
£833.33 plus VAT per person (£1000 inc. VAT)
How to book
Bookings are now open for the April 2026 programme.
Book online: Professional Nurse Advocate programme 2026
RCN Foundation offers different types of education grants to support your professional development.
Find out how an education and career development grant from the RCN Foundation can help you fund this course.
Page last updated - 02/12/2025