The world of Irish Nurse education has changed significantly over the last number of years, moving from certificate to diplomat status, from hospital-based training to integration within the higher education sector. The Irish Government has now committed pound 223,470,000 for the implementation of a four year pre-registration nursing degree programme. Consequently, from 2002 onwards all Irish pre-registration nurse education will be at graduate level. In recognition of the importance of student learning during practice placement the recommended that nursing students be supported by a named preceptor. This recommendation has significant resource implications in terms of current staff demands, staff preparation and ongoing support for the preceptor role. This paper will focus on a review of the literature on student support mechanisms during practice placements with particular emphasis on the concept of preceptor and preceptorship.