Sanne Nissink, Lifelong Learning programme coordinator at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA), is one of the driving forces behind the SwitchModule — the national care-orientation route within FastSwitch, a programme that retrains highly educated career-switchers into higher-professional (HBO) nurses. Because universities of applied sciences such as HvA, Windesheim, Inholland and Saxion collaborate closely, they work from one central platform: Floow.ai.
Sanne, interest in the SwitchModule is enormous. Did you expect this?
“Based on our experience with this group we had expectations, but this really confirms it. It shows we've built something people were waiting for. Many professionals are thinking about a switch to care. They're looking for a good, realistic preparation — and that's exactly what this module provides.”
What makes the module so valuable for switchers?
“The SwitchModule helps people discover whether the profession suits them and to start well prepared. They get to know the practice, develop basic skills and learn what a nurse's work looks like. We also cover medical knowledge and the nursing process. It's a solid but accessible start.”
Who is the module for?
“For professionals considering a switch to care. What makes this group special is their motivation — they choose this profession very deliberately. They also bring valuable knowledge and experience from other sectors, which makes them hugely interesting to care organisations. For people with an HBO or university background, the FastSwitch training can be completed in a maximum of three years.”
What does it bring employers?
“A great deal! These people aren't only motivated but, thanks to the module, also prepared. They already have a foundation and understand even better what's expected of them. That really relieves employers when onboarding.”
You use a digital platform for the SwitchModule. Why?
“We wanted one central place for all participants. The learning environments of universities of applied sciences are tied to enrolment at a single institution, which doesn't fit a national module. So we work with an external platform: Floow.ai. They provide the central platform that makes our study material directly and easily accessible to all candidates.”
Finally: what are you most proud of?
“The collaboration. We really developed this together with all the universities of applied sciences affiliated with FastSwitch, with technical support from the business world. And of course I'm proud that we help people make the switch to this beautiful and meaningful profession. That gives an enormous amount of energy!”