It’s never too late to start your nursing career

HEADING back to study after a long hiatus can be a daunting thought.

Still, with passion and persistence, a growing number of career changers are realising a professional nursing career at The Gordon.

For Elly Brown, The Gordon was the perfect place to start her nursing journey.

“When I first looked at studying nursing, I was working in hospitality,” Ms Brown said.

“My friends and family have always said I’d make a great nurse, so I took their advice and applied for my Diploma of Nursing.

As nursing was a part of free TAFE, and there was a huge call out for people looking to enter the industry, it was the perfect time for me to start.

“I was unsuccessful in gaining a place, but The Gordon offered me a spot in their Bridging into Nursing (BIN) course, which I jumped at.

“I was so glad I entered nursing this way, as it had been over 10 years since I last studied.

“The bridging course brought me up to speed on a lot of the science, such as anatomy, human body systems and most importantly, the medical terminology used throughout healthcare.

It also gave me the skills to properly reference my work and how to correctly complete assessment tasks.

“I have just completed my work placement in aged care, I was a little nervous, but I really did feel so prepared and confident.”

The Gordon’s specially designed six-month Bridging into Nursing course builds confidence and prepares participants to study for a diploma.

The work placement opportunities also provide graduates with the hands-on skills and experience to start employment in the industry while continuing their tertiary studies at university.

Dianne Giddings, Diploma of Nursing teacher at The Gordon, is a strong advocate for the BIN program.

“Students who have come through BINs are more committed and more prepared. It also helps our students determine if nursing is the right career for them,” Ms Giddings said.

“Many students like Elly are keen to continue their nursing education and go on to study their Bachelor of Nursing to become registered nurses.

The great aspect of completing your enrolled nursing course first is that you have the opportunity to work and study at the same time.”

Students who complete a Diploma of Nursing at The Gordon can pathway to university and start their Bachelor of Nursing as second-year students with Deakin.

“As a nurse at Barwon Health, it is so lovely to come to work and work alongside Gordon graduates. It makes me very proud to see them on the wards,” Ms Giddings said.

Demand for trained professionals across the healthcare sector continues to grow, and many are finding the career opportunities very rewarding.

You learn more about nursing, bridging into nursing and a wide variety of other healthcare-related courses at The Gordon’s coming information session at the Geelong City Campus on December 13 from 5pm.

To find out more and register, head to thegordon.edu.au

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