A new course is being launched at the TAFE Queensland Bowen campus to help train more enrolled nurses and eligible students may be able to study for free or at a low cost by accessing Fee-Free TAFE funding.
A flexible Diploma of Nursing is being offered for the first time at the Bowen Health Hub, which replicates a real-life hospital environment.
Melanie Clarke, Community and Health Faculty Manager for TAFE Queensland in Far North and North Queensland, says the 18-month-long course starts on 25 September 2023.
“In Bowen, the Diploma of Nursing will be delivered online with some face-to-face training,” Mrs Clarke says.
“During the course, students will participate in several week-long residential training blocks to gain practical, hands-on skills.
“On campus, students will train in the purpose-built Bowen Health Hub using industry standard equipment and tools.
“To ensure they are work-ready when they graduate, students will also complete a minimum of 400 hours of vocational placement in a health care facility or hospital.”
According to the Skills Priority List there is a national shortage of enrolled nurses and locals thinking of entering the profession could gain their skills for free.
“Fee-Free TAFE provides eligible Queenslanders with the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification in areas of strong employment demand, such as nursing, and complete their training for free,” Mrs Clarke says.
“We know that for some people the cost of training can be a barrier to pursuing their career goals, so Fee-Free TAFE is a great opportunity for locals seeking training.”
Mrs Clarke says Diploma of Nursing graduates can choose to pathway to university.
“Our graduates are highly sought after and can enter the workforce when they finish their course, or use their diploma training to pursue further studies such as a Bachelor of Nursing at university.”
“This is an appealing option for some people as they can start earning money working as an enrolled nurse straight away while they finish their degree.”
