Cultivating community changemakers

LEARNING AND THRIVING… Jayde Couzens graduated from ASHE with a Diploma of Nursing in December 2023 and received Ricci Marks award in June 2023 that recognises the individual achievements and aspirations of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Jayde is now currently completing a graduate year program for Medication Endorsed Enrolled Nurses (MEEN) at GV Health. Photo: Supplied

ESTABLISHED in 2004, the Academy of Sport, Health & Education is an Indigenous-focused educational institution making a significant impact in the community.

Offering a variety of community services courses, ASHE caters to students from all backgrounds, not exclusively Indigenous Australians. The courses encompass diverse fields such as social work, counselling, therapy, youth work, disability services, aged care, homelessness support, and more. With classes held only one day a week, ASHE accommodates individuals seeking to enhance their skills in critical areas while balancing work or family commitments.

Among its specialised programs is ASHE’s Nursing and Education Support Program designed for First Nations students. This initiative aims to increase the number of Indigenous nurses, contributing to improved health outcomes for everyone and employment outcomes for Indigenous students.

LEARNING AND THRIVING… Jayde Couzens graduated from ASHE with a Diploma of Nursing in December 2023 and received Ricci Marks award in June 2023 that recognises the individual achievements and aspirations of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Jayde is now currently completing a graduate year program for Medication Endorsed Enrolled Nurses (MEEN) at GV Health. Photo: Supplied

“Our nursing program has been highly successful, and similar to all our courses, it is supported by strong ties with local businesses and organisations. We can provide opportunities for hands on learning, such as nursing traineeships available at GV Health,” said student services officer, Seldan Andrews.

“We want our students to go further, and we encourage them to continue learning and give them the support and guidance to continue their studies or to find rewarding employment.”

Additionally, ASHE offers scholarships, financial support, and other learning assistance to help students successfully complete their courses.

Since launching in 2016, it has increased the number of Indigenous nurses on Yorta Yorta Country and provided a culturally safe and supported environment for students across its’ courses.

To learn more or to apply, call 5823 6600 or email heidilauren.knowles@unimelb.edu.au