30 November 2022

TAFE NSW has helped a Tamworth student get a head start on her nursing career and gain hands-on experience in a hospital setting, before completing her High School Certificate.

Molly Smith from Kingswood is helping fill a forecast 6 per cent skills shortage in the Northern Tableland’s healthcare sector, having secured a job as an assistant in nursing at a local hospital for her gap year.

While completing her High School Certificate, Molly is studying a Certificate III in Health Services Assistant TVET course through TAFE NSW to gain the practical experiences needed to succeed in a real-world health setting.

“Through completing this course while at school I’m able to gain an extensive amount of experience and truly learn what the job entails. It has taught me so much about not only nursing but about life, respect, responsibility, and time management,” Molly said.

“Completing this course during school has opened so many opportunities that will benefit my future career. Not only have I gained experience, but I now have a position as an Assistant in Nursing at Tamworth Hospital for my gap year, as well as the opportunity to work at a hospital while I’m attending university.

“Through completing this course at TAFE NSW while at school, I have truly set myself up for my future.”

Molly has plans to complete a nursing degree at university in the future and said TAFE NSW prepared her for the workforce and future study.

“I absolutely loved studying at TAFE NSW and the practical workshops were so hands on and taught me so much. The TAFE NSW labs were set out like a real hospital ward, which makes it an incredible place to practise and grow as a nurse,” Molly said.

TAFE NSW Health teacher Alison Callcott said TAFE NSW’s TVET courses and unparalleled industry connections would help bridge the Northern Tablelands healthcare skills gap.  

“TAFE NSW TVET courses give students first-hand experience in the healthcare industry and provides a strong pathway to future study or a career in the sector when they finish high school,” Ms Callcott said.

 “TAFE NSW graduates can get their foot in the door with industry-led training and employer connections. Not only are our graduates’ job prospects excellent but they are entering a career where they make a tangible difference in the health and wellbeing of individuals and the community.” 
 

Media contact: Emily Barton, Communications Specialist, email emily.barton11@tafensw.edu.au.