The aim of the course is to help alleviate regional healthcare staff shortages.
The course allows local students to study and train in their local community, and is supported by Echuca Regional Health, including access to the hospital’s simulation space for practical learning.
Bendigo TAFE chief executive Laura Macpherson said training nurses in regional communities was critical to address workforce shortages across the region.
“This course is a practical step towards strengthening the regional healthcare workforce — creating a pipeline of locally trained nurses, with the support of Echuca Regional Health,” she said.
Many if not most of the new Diploma of Nursing students live locally or in nearby communities, highlighting the demand for high-quality training close to home.
Offering nursing at Echuca is about access and equity, making it possible for more people to study, train and build meaningful careers in the communities they know and care about, Ms Macpherson said.
“Many students plan to work locally, with some already employed as carers in aged care while upskilling through the course,” she said.
An added bonus is the course is part of Free TAFE, which supports students to train for in-demand health and care roles without the cost of tuition fees.
“Free TAFE plays an important role in reducing the financial barrier and opening up access, making it easier for people to train for in-demand healthcare roles,” Ms Macpherson said.
“We’re so pleased to welcome this first intake of enthusiastic students who, we believe, will be integral in building a stronger, sustainable regional healthcare workforce here in Echuca.”
13°C