Sean McCudden went from feeling he had no purpose in his life to now working in a rewarding role in aged care. He is also about to embark on a scholarship through ACNP (Aged Care Nursing Program) to study his Bachelor of Nursing. His current job at Legacy as an AIN gives him satisfaction, and he feels he’s finally found his career direction and wants to become a registered nurse.
“I didn’t know what to do with my life. I’d done a lot of terrible jobs, like roof installation in 80% humidity, and was looking for something more rewarding and mentally stimulating.”
Sean came from a background of addiction and, nearing forty, was trying to find a job that made him feel like he was contributing.
Sean started at NVC Group as a gardener in the Home and Community section last June. He visited elderly clients’ homes and was doing garden care. He thought a career in aged care or home and community care might be something he’d be interested in. He inquired at NV College and started a Care Ready course the next week. The Care Ready course is a taster of what a career in care might look like whether it be aged care, disability or home and community care work.
“The course covered a bit of everything and I thought, cool, sign me up. I realised that aged care was my jam.”
After completing his Care Ready course, Sean went on to do a traineeship. He finished a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support in six months.
“The Certificate III in Individual Support was well structured. Each topic drew me to something else. One hundred percent, the trainer Jacqui made it for me. The right teacher made all the difference.”
Sean then received a job offer with Legacy.
“I’ve helped myself and now I can help others through my work. It’s the greatest feeling to assist people in their 70s, 80s and 90s — even 100s — providing care that they can no longer do for themselves. I feel lucky to take care of these vulnerable people. It is physically tiring but mentally worth it every day.”
His enthusiasm and dedication to his new career have been seen and acknowledged by his new employer, Legacy. He’s been offered one of a select few scholarships to complete a Bachelor of Nursing. The scholarship covers the costs of his degree and is an achievement that reflects his passion for aged care.
“I wouldn’t have dreamed it! I’ve gone from not having purpose to having direction and focus. It took me till I was forty, but it happened. If my story inspires one person to not give up hope on finding direction, it will have been worth it. You can find your purpose.”
Study with NV College
Our next Care Ready pre-employment courses start in March, enquire now at training@nvcollege.edu.au or call 1300 655 224 to kick start your career.
Care Ready is NV College’s pre-employment short course, which prepares our students for what a career in care might look like for them with hands on work experience included. The courses run regularly in Coffs Harbour and in Macksville.
We also offer Certificate III in Individual Support CHC33021.
Make a difference and enter into a rewarding career today!