Abstract
Vocationally based higher education programmes are meant to prepare people for employment in their chosen fields of study. In nursing, historically, employment after qualifying has been almost assured, with sufficient vacancies available for newly qualified nurses. Recently, however, for a number of reasons, primarily related to economic conditions, it is more difficult for newly qualified nurses to gain employment when they have finished their university programmes. One university has recognised this problem and has provided full‐day programmes, known as ‘Enhanced Employability Events’, for newly qualified nurses to enable them to further develop the skills required to apply for posts, improve their interview technique and succeed at additional tests and activities related to gaining employment as nurses. This article presents the findings of an evaluative research study into these employability events in terms of which aspects of the events were most valued by participants, and into the outcome of attending these events in terms of success at gaining employment. The article is relevant to the work of all teachers who are involved in preparing students from any vocational programme of study for employment in their field.