Five Bundamba State Secondary College classmates are currently completing a Certificate III in Health through a school-based traineeship, which includes a paid job at Ipswich Hospital.
Four of the students – twins Mulana and Munarra, Lora and Alekk – are completing their studies as part of the Deadly Start education2employment program.
All five trainees work at the hospital each Wednesday and during school holidays to complete the practical side of the certificate.
Clinical Development Facilitator Robert Winstone said the program was a great way to encourage the next generation of health care professionals.
“All of our school-based trainees have grown their confidence in the year of training towards their certificate three,” he said.
“The program finishes in April and is the perfect steppingstone to future study, including university.”
The trainees are supported by a school-based liaison officer as well as Ipswich Hospital’s Clinical Development team, mentors, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health team.
Find out more about Metro North Health's Deadly Start Education2Employment program here: https://metronorth.health.qld.gov.au/uncategorized/deadly-start-e2e-program
Sephrenia
Sephrenia McGregor’s career path was signed, sealed and delivered (literally) after she was there to catch her baby sister, Nikita, when her mum gave birth to her at Ipswich Hospital in November.
The 17-year-old aspiring midwife was present at the birth to support her mum, but, when the midwife invited her to help, it was an experience she couldn’t pass up, further igniting her love for the profession.
Sephrenia is working on Ward 7C, acute care for the elderly, where she is adored by patients and staff for her caring touch and proactive work ethic.
She has already expressed her desire to continue her career at Ipswich Hospital when she finishes her degree.
Clinical Development Facilitator Robert Winstone said Sephrenia was the first midwife through the program, with most students continuing down the nursing pathway.
Mulana and Munarra
Identical twins Mulana and Munarra Walker are proof that good things come in pairs.
Munarra said they both agreed that their favourite part nursing had been connecting with patients in the wards.
“Some patients don’t have visitors so even a small interaction, conversation and a smile can make their day,” she said.
Munarra is looking to future studies and has aspirations for a future career with Queensland Ambulance Service as a paramedic.
Twin Mulana is working in orthopaedics and Munarra has spent her time between the medical and surgical ward as well as day surgery.
Mulana said the program gave her the chance to experience the practical side of nursing and hoped to work as an Assistant in Nursing when she graduates.
Lora
Nursing is a family affair for Lora Sirett.
Lora is following in the footsteps of her mum, aunt and extended family members on the path to becoming a nurse.
She has developed her skills and knowledge working on the rehabilitation ward and stroke unit where she is described by staff as dedicated and hardworking.
Her ability to talk to and connect with consumers has led to many patients requesting her care.
“Building relationships with patients is my favourite part of the job,” she said.
Lora said she was keen to explore a range of career opportunities when she completes her work and studies later this year.
Alekk
Alekk Mathieson has proved his dedication to a future in health as he continues his secondary studies.
The 16-year-old first completed a Tafe Tester course to learn first aide and CPR skills which encouraged him to complete a Certificate II in Health.
Now Alekk is working on the Ipswich Hospital medical ward as he upgrades his qualifications with a Certificate III in Health.
Staff working on the medical ward said Alekk had great potential, instinct and caring qualities.
Alekk said he had his sights set on a future as a nurse in the navy.
“I’ve learnt a lot through observing how staff provide care to patients, while also having a great time working with them on the ward,” he said.
