Developing an advanced neonatal nurse practitioner (ANNP) programme: A conversation on the process from both a service and education perspective

Understanding the processes required when developing learning beyond registration (LBR) courses within a higher education institution is a key component of a specialist lecturer role. However, this process is often ‘learnt on the job’. On reflection, this kind of approach, whilst not ideal, helps shape those particular skills required such as collaborative working with key stake holders, pre-empting challenges and finding solutions to challenges as they arise. However, as a novice lecturer, it would have been helpful to read other lecturers reflections on their lived experience of the process. The following discussion attempts to reflect on the process of developing an ANNP programme mindful that it was much more protracted than it reads on paper. It is hoped that, whilst this is from a UK perspective, in terms of continuing professional development (CPD), reflecting on process will be of interest to both a UK and international readership.