Lake Grace Hospital helps student Tess kick start a career in country nursing

WA Country Health Service is supporting secondary students looking at a future career in healthcare, providing early career options and work placements that deliver hands-on experience.

As a part of the high school curriculum, students like Lake Grace local Tess Stanton are required to complete a certain number of workplace hours, and can nominate the organisation they want to approach to undertake work placement.

With her sights set firmly on a career in country nursing, Tess requested a placement at Lake Grace Hospital.

Lake Grace Health Service Manager and Director of Nursing Lisa Pearce said Tess – who was recently awarded Vocational Education and Training student of the year for her study area – was professional, personable, caring and compassionate.  

“She showed great maturity and respect – she handled herself extremely well.

“Under nursing supervision, Tess helped our residents with activities of daily living.

“With patient consent, Tess observed staff undertaking their duties, including the Emergency Department team,” Lisa said.

“Tess is such a happy positive person the staff residents and patients all responded positively to her often wishing her all the best in her future nursing career.”

Tess said the experience had given her opportunities to observe and assist frontline staff, helping to cement her plans for a career in nursing.

“After completing my Certificate III in Health Service Assistance this year, I am continuing with a Certificate IV next year, and from there I hope to study for a degree in nursing and work as a registered nurse in the country,” Tess said. 

“I don’t have a specific sector of nursing I would like to work in, but I am interested in Emergency Department nursing in rural and remote settings.

Tess said she was well-supported by nursing, medical and support staff at Lake Grace Hospital and that the practical experience was well-suited to her learning style.

“As someone who didn’t follow the ATAR pathway at school, I would definitely recommend completing a Certificate for the hands-on experience.

“Completing a Certificate course in either nursing, aged care or paramedicine gives you such a great outlook on healthcare as a whole.”

WA Country Health Service also facilitates a high school program where students working toward a Certificate II can undertake dedicated course hours, creating pathways to future careers in healthcare.