Aim: To evaluate nurses' and ward managers' experience of the Nurse Foundation Programme (NFP), with a view to improving future programmes. The NFP was introduced in 2008 to provide newly qualified nurses with standardised training and support during their first year post-training in Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.
Method: Anonymous evaluation forms were analysed and interviews with nurses and ward managers were undertaken. Evaluation form data were descriptively analysed, and interviews and free text comments were thematically analysed.
Findings: The NFP was highly valued by attendees, offering timely knowledge and support for newly qualified nurses. Ward managers reported that the NFP made it easier to release time for newly qualified nurses to participate in training, while helping with skill mix decisions on the ward.
Conclusion: The centrally planned and coordinated NFP was positively evaluated and led to a standardised approach to training and support for newly qualified nurses.