Four student nurses in uniform stood around a simulation hospital bed with a child laying down on it

Out now: ‘Successful Studying for Nursing Students’ by BNU Associate Professor of Education Melanie Hayward

New publication Successful Studying for Nursing Students (Edition 1), edited by Melanie Hayward, Associate Professor of Education – Quality Assurance and Enhancement at Buckinghamshire New University’s (BNU) Institute of Health and Social Care, is now available. 

The book is part of Elsevier’s New Notes on Nursing series and contains contributions from current and past BNU academic staff including Head of School Dr Julia Williams, Associate Lecturer Catherine Forward , Senior Lecturer Phill Hoddinott and Lecturer Jen Hanley.

Successful Studying for Nursing Students provides an in-depth look at all the study skills nursing students will need in their first year of study and beyond. The book contains case studies, storytelling approaches to help link theory to practice, graphics, icons and mind maps to aid visual learners, and is written to show how specific knowledge relates to wider concepts. 

Successful Studying for Nursing students (book cover)

Editor and Author Melanie said: As a nursing academic, creating 'Successful Studying for Nursing Students' was so important because it equips nursing students with the vital study skills needed for both their academic and professional journeys. Working with a fantastic group of contributors, experienced professionals and recent students, this book bridges the gap between theory and practice ensuring relevant and relatable content. 

“I am passionate about inclusivity, accessibility and practical learning and this book embodies these values by making complex concepts manageable and directly applicable. It also aims to foster critical thinking, digital literacy, and evidence-based practice, preparing students for lifelong learning and excellence in nursing. 

“In today’s dynamic healthcare environment, adaptability and continuous learning are crucial. 'Successful Studying for Nursing Students' provides the tools to learn, and thrive whilst doing so, supporting and inspiring future nurses to become compassionate and competent professionals. I am proud to have contributed a resource that I hope will have a positive impact on nursing education and practice.” 

Dr Julia Williams, Interim Head of School for Nursing and Midwifery at BNU, also contributed a chapter to the book. Julia said: “It was great to work with Mel on this publication and to contribute to a resource that will benefit nursing students in the future. Coming to university can be daunting, so any resource that can support students to study can only be a good thing.”

The new book will be on core reading lists for pre-registration nursing courses throughout the UK, with many universities already organising its promotion at student inductions. 

Melanie Hayward joined BNU in 2016 following a 21-year career in the NHS. Melanie is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), and is registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council as a Children's Nurse and Specialist Community Public Health Nurse.