The clinical practice education facilitator (PEF) mainly supports students with their clinical practice learning in the placement trust (or health board) and the university. Like the lecturer practitioner the practice educator strengthens the links between the Trust and the university. They are experienced midwives who focus on developing students' clinical skills; this includes teaching, assessments and supporting mentors.

The PEF works in practice and with the university, to ensure the clinical placements meet the learners needs and offer support to both students and mentors. They work in accordance with the NMC Standards to Support Learning and Assessment in Practice (2008).

This role plays a vital part in preparing future midwives, enabling them to deliver high quality evidence based care to women and babies.

Practice educators are usually employed by the NHS Trust or Health Board.

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Case study

Are you working in the role of practice education facilitator? Please contact us about doing a case study on your career path for this page:  education@rcm.org.uk