Health superstars in the making

At a recent graduation ceremony at Penrith Panthers, the event saw 59 students gain a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (Assisting in nursing work in acute care) and 10 students gain a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance.

The evening was attended by students, their families, and a range of esteemed guests from within the health district who played a crucial role in the course. Invitees included school principals, career/VET advisors, District Directors and representatives from the NSW Health Registered Training Office.

The courses undertaken required a significant time commitment from the students and included 1 afternoon per week during school terms and 80 hours of work placement in their school holidays.

The aim of these placements was for students to master health related skills such as showering, feeding, moving patients, wound dressings, clinical observations and assisting will all activities of daily living.

With over 30 schools being represented, the program creates an awareness of health issues and improves health literacy within the community. 35 of the graduating students have applied for, and gained, a position within NBMLHD as casual Assistants in Nursing.

VETiS teacher, Colleen Butler believes the course is invaluable to the future of our health workforce.

“I love walking through our hospitals and seeing our graduates - past and present, working in our wards. Over 80% of this year’s graduates plan to continue studying in a health-related field," says Colleen.

Among the winners at the VETiS graduation were four students who gained an award for Clinical Excellence. This award considers all aspects of clinical placement and is based on feedback from ward staff themselves. It highlights the students’ conduct on the wards and their interactions with other team members.

The VETiS team considers this award especially significant. While difficult to achieve, it serves as a strong indicator of those who are likely to become outstanding health professionals in the future.

Harry Small, a student of the program describes winning the award as an honour.

“It feels unreal to receive this award and helps cement my decision on becoming a nurse," explains Harry.

Harry believes the support he received from teacher, Kelly Watkins, as a big factor in his success.

Congratulations to all of this year’s graduates.