In our district, we RECOMMEND at least one year of clinical experience. We have 5 nurses (1RN, 4 LPNs, 3 aides), all with varied backgrounds and we all have our own 'special skills' that we bring to the table. Altho the pay SUCKS (sorry...) the benefits far outweigh that. I mean, where else can you get suck a VARIETY of experiences in one day, and still walk down the hall and recieve at least TWENTY hugs??? I had BLS instructor class 2 days ago and yesterday, first thing in the morning, one of my Pre-k kiddos stopped dead in the hallway on his way to RECESS yet, looked at me with awe and said "You're BACK!!" Huge hug followed by race to the swingset! Where else in the WORLD can YOU outrank a SWING??? hehe Check with your school district administration office for their requirements. It is very different with each district. Good Luck on your search!! :) deb