By Stephanie Holliday
IN a bid to help combat the chronic healthcare skills shortage, Notre Dame College have partnered with GV Health and La Trobe University to officially launch their VETDSS Health Program.
After a highly successful pilot in 2022, with those students now transitioning into their second year, those a part of the program will embark on a learning journey, supported by local organisations, to develop skills and qualifications in health care.
Students in the program get hands-on work experience at GV Hospital and learn at the La Trobe University Shepparton campus.
Deputy principal at Notre Dame College, Kris Walker spoke of how this program, the first of its kind in the region, has proven to be an invaluable opportunity for participating students.
“We are supportive of all students whether their aspirations after year 12 are of a tertiary nature or if they have a trade-based career path in their sights. All careers are equally important, and if we can help nurture those interests during the final years of high school, students who enter the workforce with work experience already under their belt are looked at favourably by prospective employers.”
Breanne Collier aspires to study a double degree in nursing and paramedicine and is grateful for the opportunity to undertake a whole new concept of learning, as well as the chance to experience what her chosen career will be like early on.
“The day we learn on campus at La Trobe is my favourite day of the week,” Breanne said.
“Now that I’ve had experience working in a hospital, it’s really cemented for me that a career in the medical field is something I’m really passionate about.”
Places in the VETDSS Health Program 2023 are limited to 20, with students who wish to be considered required to demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies and learning.
“We are so proud of these students. Their enthusiasm and love of this program is a testament to how a learning model which encompasses both practice and theory gives young people a head start, and how it leads to great outcomes such as a wealth of work experience in their chosen field early on,” said Kris.
Notre Dame College has several VET programs that are delivered through the college in collaboration with local organisations and institutions rather than outside education providers. The popularity of these courses, from those centred on the health care sector to the building industry, will help ensure the current skills shortage will be less of a burden in coming years.
