BACKGROUND:
Previous studies have shown that midwives working in free-standing birth centres require a distinct set of skills compared to those employed in hospitals. When midwives begin working in free-standing birth centres directly after gaining state certification, they are typically required to complete an orientation period.

OBJECTIVES:
This study aimed to explore the lived experience of newly qualified midwives when they begin their professional practice in free-standing birth centres.

METHODS:
This research employed a hermeneutic phenomenological approach. The study focused on the lived experience of newly qualified midwives during their orientation period in free-standing birth centres, with particular attention to skill acquisition. Data collection methods included focus groups, open-ended interviews, and voice messaging. Fifteen newly qualified midwives were interviewed three times in their first 9 to 12 months of practice. In addition, thirteen focus group interviews were conducted with experienced birth centre teams who support newly qualified midwives during their orientation. Newly qualified midwives left 123 voice messages.

RESULTS:
Two key themes will be presented. The first, Stepping into the role, captures how midwives described key moments during births when they experienced being embedded in the world of midwifery, thus recognising themselves as capable, practicing midwives. The second theme, "It hit me like a wave" – Integrating emotion into professional identity highlights how emotional intensity—whether awe, distress, or urgency—played a central role in how midwives processed and internalised new knowledge, shaping their emerging professional identity.

CONCLUSIONS:
This study offers new insights into how newly qualified midwives begin to internalise professional identity through emotionally charged and reflective experiences in free-standing birth centres. Understanding these moments can inform supportive approaches to orientation and enhance professional learning.

KEY MESSAGE:
An orientation period is beneficial for newly qualified midwives entering practice in free-standing birth centres. It supports the acquisition of essential skills and fosters the development of professional confidence and identity. Data collection (including three-minute presentation competition)