Want to be a midwife help please :)

Hi
I have wanted to be a midwife for along as I can remember, (applied to do nursing in 2008 but personal family reasons I couldnt accept place) but I feel the time is right to apply to uni.
I have no idea where to start though! I have the necessary GCSE's and also have a level 3 diploma in childcare and education. What other qualifications do i need?
I am currently a childminder (I have my own 2 year old) but can not see myself doing this job forever and as I've said I feel I am ready to apply for uni maybe for 2013 but what will help me be successful in gaining a midwifery place at uni?

Also what financial help is available for students?

If anyone can help I would appreciate any information you can give me.

Thanks

hiya
some uni's like diplomas, some dont, you need to contact the one you want to apply to. It might be worth doing an access course?
as for the finacial side, it all depends on the household income. You will get a non means tested bursary of £1000 per year, you could be entitled to a means tested bursary (based on housefold income) and a maintenance loan x

Hi hun,

I too am a childminder and cannot by any means see myself doing the job much longer!!! (have two of my own and thats more than enough for me!!!)

I have the required gcse's to and a childcare level three, but unfortunately from a ucas point of view it isnt accepted as its out of date - lol!!! I am doing a Fda in Early Years which is equiv to level four however because its been so long since I studied science at school my chosen uni have suggested that I get a science based qualification so I am doing the access to midwifery too.
I would say contact your chosen uni's and ask them wht they would want from you, based on what you already have. xxx

Thanks for your replies.
I have emailed the uni and been told my level 3 diploma in childcare doesn't count so I've enrolled with college to do a access to education course about health and biology, so I'm on the path!

Hopefully be able to apply to uni for 2013 or 2014 hopefully!

Long road yet but I am so determined I am going to be midwife even if it takes me a good few years!!

Looking forward to getting more advise and help when needed from all you guys here!!
Sarah x