Glen Innes student launches healthcare career
6 May 2009
Glen Innes High School student Kaitlin Lewis has kick-started her nursing degree thanks to an innovative, hands-on training scheme being offered via Hunter New England Health.
Kaitlin Lewis recently embarked on a two-year, school-based traineeship, combining study at school and TAFE with practical experience at Glen Innes Hospital.
The Year 11 student will work towards gaining a Certificate III in Health Services, which is a nationally-recognised qualification. Credits gained during the structured training period will be eligible for transfer to a nursing degree at university.
Glen Innes Health Service Manager Cathryn Jones said the school-based traineeship was an ideal way for local students to complete a certificate-level qualification while learning skills under the guidance of highly-experienced health care workers.
“Nursing and working in a health service is one of the most exciting, dynamic and rewarding careers there is, and we are genuinely happy to be able to welcome Kaitlin to the team at Glen Innes Hospital, ” Ms Jones said.
“Kaitlin will work closely with Endorsed Enrolled Nurse mentors during her training, which will equal up to 800 hours on-the-job – or at least 100 paid days of work - during the two year period.
“It is a great initiative and we are proud to be supporting the concept, in conjunction with TAFE and Glen Innes High School.”
Tablelands Cluster General Manager Wendy Mulligan said Hunter New England Health anticipated many benefits would arise from the structured training program.
“We hope that by exposing students to positive health care experiences, we will encourage local young people to stay in the local area to pursue their nursing careers, or perhaps return to the local area once completing university,” Ms Mulligan said.
“Such initiatives also strengthen community and health care partnerships, which is a step in the right direction for the hospital and the local community.”
Contact: Emma Gibbs
Phone: (02) 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767