Hi Birthventure,
I have just found this thread following your message - I can understand all of your concerns re starting this course and from your post I echo what everyone else has said: you will make a great midwife.
I am in a similar situation to you in that I am 36, have three children and currently work for the NHS in the maternity office so I can relate to your anxiety about the politics of it all. But I still have faith in the system and in myself and am still very much drawn to this profession
However, practically-speaking, I am still awaiting confirmation from my manager that I can work reduced shifts (two Sundays per month) as all secondments have been withdrawn and I am unlikely to get anything bursary-wise so money worries are there on the horizon for me, too, although I am not thinking too much about them at the moment.
I am also worried about the impact the course will have on the kids. As well as the impact on my mother, who thinks I should be staying at home.. My husband is, thankfully, however, very supportive.
This role seems to be a natural progression from the one that you are already doing and it would seem a lost opportunity if you don't follow it through.
Keep us updated xx
PS: Which hopsital have you been allocated?