To explore student midwives experiences of the Clinical Competency Assessment process utilised on the Higher Diploma in Midwifery (18 month) programme.

Recent changes to midwifery education in Ireland have included the establishment of a four year BSc Midwifery (BScM) programme in September 2006 and a shortened 18 month post registration Higher Diploma in Midwifery (HDM) ...

Midwives are in a unique position to support mothers in the initiation of breastfeeding. In order to advise and support mothers effectively it is important that midwives have a sound understanding of the evidence base ...