Aim The objective of this study was to identify differences between satisfaction levels of diploma and degree students on different branches of a common foundation programme.

Method Questionnaires were completed by 315 diploma and degree student nurses undertaking a common foundation programme at different intervals during training.

Results Questionnaire responses showed different satisfaction levels in the three different branches. Mental health and child branch students were more aware of organisational problems than adult branch students. More child branch students were of the opinion that there were problems with placement preparation but gave teaching modules and lectures higher ratings. Mental health students were most dissatisfied with placement preparation and gave teaching modules and lectures lower ratings.

Conclusion The results provide data in support of the argument that students on child and mental health branches find the CFP less well organised for them and that degree students are more satisfied with the current standard of teaching and personal support.