A government-run work experience program has given two students from Southern River College the insight they need for a future career in nursing and midwifery.
Year 10 students Jasmine Maddern and Lila Barnes took part in the Get Real Experience and Try Nursing and Midwifery Work Experience program earlier this year, which saw them spend four days at Armadale Hospital in day surgery, obstetrics and the general, emergency and rehabilitation wards.
The program, which is supported and coordinated by the Department of Health and NurseWest, allows students that are interested in pursuing a career in nursing and midwifery to experience what a career in the industry would be like.
For Jasmine, her involvement in the program has confirmed that a career in nursing, particularly in emergency nursing, is where she hopes to see herself going forward.
“To those wanting to enter the program, I would say do it and make the most of it… ask questions, take in information and immerse yourself in the experience,” she said.
“It is an amazing opportunity.”
Workplace learning officer Bernice Davies said the opportunity for students to be able to work alongside other professionals in an actual hospital setting was invaluable for their learning.
“This type of learning is extremely effective in terms of it mainly being a practical and hands on experience, allowing the students the opportunity to experience real life situations as they happen,” she said.
“The mentors and staff who made themselves available to support and teach our students made this experience not only real, but also interactive and informative.”
For more information about the program visit the Department of Health website.
