Hi Afra
I came across this thread and i just wanted to put my opinions across.
Forgive me if i seem biased, but I am a first year student studying at the University of Manchester, I came straight out of sixth form to uni to study Child Nursing and I don't regret the University of Manchester at all. Although I am just starting placement and just entering the 2nd Semester, I don't really know what the timetable is like for Salford Nursing Students, but for Manchester I do believe it is more academically as I've only just started my first placement last week, and ever since then, i've just been to lectures, but like i said before i haven't seen the salford nursing timetable so I can't compare.
Personally I don't see anything wrong with Manchester being 'more academic' because throughout the 3 year course, we will obviously go on more placements and get the right experience, so that shouldn't be an issue. If anything, I find it a good thing because as well as the 'textbook knowledge' it gives you, it also gives you more time to have a 'student life', i.e, go out, have more time to get involved with activites and societies, etc. before placements kicks in as you will probably be working 8 hr shifts (which can be tiring at times) whereas lectures you'll be in for a lot less hours.
Its up to you though
Like I said Manchester is great, especially if you want a student life before placements kick in.
Good Luck for your interviews.