This paper discusses the journey of transition from practice to education by reflecting on the opportunities and challenges of this process. It utilises reflective principles to identify strategies for universities and the higher education sector to consider when supporting new teachers. Higher education presents a significant challenge for new academic staff in becoming competent and overcoming the barriers that may impact on students' learning. Nurse education requires a teacher to be dynamic, supportive, caring, empathetic, challenging and knowledgeable.

Maintaining the balance of the role in supporting students and sustaining identity for new teachers is the beginning of the journey to becoming an effective teacher in higher education.