Aged care is a perfect career for all ages

STATISTICS have shown growth in employment opportunities in the aged care sector for years.

Apart from excellent job stability, there are far more rewarding reasons to enter the industry.

Executive director of Estia Health Leopold, Wendy O’Rielly, will tell you there is far more to working in age care than just a weekly pay packet.

“I have worked in health for close to 40 years and I still love my job. It is rewarding, enriching, and every day you can go home with this great feeling that you made someone’s day just a little bit brighter,” Wendy said.

Estia Health is also committed to the training of new staff and regularly engage Gordon students for work placement during their Individual Support (Ageing) course.

Students complete 120 hours of training during their placement and work alongside experienced staff who guide and shape their learning.
“There really is no better way to learn than by doing. This is what makes the relationship between TAFE and Estia so important,” Ms O’Rielly said.

“The Gordon teach their students so well, so we know they will make great team members. They come into work placement well prepared and fully supported.”

“The staff and students become really good buddies. We have had students coming to us for a long time and our staff are really great at making the students feel part of the team.”

To work in aged care, you need to undertake a Certificate III in Individual Support.

“Our 19-week course is perfect for anyone looking to become a caregiver to older people who require care,” said Michelle Milroy, business manager for health and science at The Gordon.

“Through our simulated work environment, students gain the hands-on skills they need before commencing work placement. Their excellent underpinning of skills and knowledge allows them to be confident stepping into the work environment,” she continued.

The outcomes are really positive for Gordon students, and work placement often leads to employment and excellent job satisfaction.

Wayne Dover, a recent Gordon graduate said, “This was the perfect course for me. It was so practical, and my work placement led me to a job here at Estia Health.

“I look forward every day to getting up and going to work. It is so rewarding and I feel like I make a real difference. With great teachers who are more than happy to impart their wisdom, The Gordon was a great place for me to change careers.”

If you are interested in completing a qualification that leads to working in aged care, visit thegordon.edu.au.