‘Aged care is an employment area in the Mid North Coast that has high vacancy rates,’ said Dionne Court, Head Teacher Careers, Educational Pathways Program. ‘It makes sense for our students to know it’s a potential career path.’
After the successful Educational Pathways Program (EPP) last year, Mrs Court said she was keen to continue with it in 2026. The EPP aims to provide real-world opportunities and connections to industries. This growing state-wide program is running in targeted government high schools in NSW.
In June this year, the EPP will enable ten students from Macksville High and Bowraville Central School to participate in a five day course with NV College.
Last year, students from Macksville High School, completed the NV College Intro to Care program, where they completed hands-on training and gained valuable insights into careers in the aged care sector, and explored the range of employment opportunities within the sector.
Of that cohort, one student is now studying their Certificate III in Human Services with a few students also applying for nursing programs.
‘We really liked the program and how it was organised. NV College and Amanda were keen to coordinate the course and brought such positive energy,” said Mrs Court.
Mrs Court said, ‘Students learnt that there is a wide range of career opportunities at an aged care facility, not just carers. Students heard from a physiotherapist, business administrators, catering staff and more – there are many employment options withing the aged care sector.’
Students also learnt invaluable, potentially lifesaving skills with a First Aid and CPR qualification, and participated in simulated scenarios, including emergency response to such situations such as a heart attack and snake bite.
They learnt to don and doff PPE to prevent spread of infection and observe how to use the lifting machines.
Students said the highlight of their experience was spending time with residents at Autumn Lodge Aged Care facility, listening to their fascinating life stories and gaining a new appreciation for the care environment.
“Introducing students to the care industry through hands on training and aged care exposure, is a powerful way to spark interest in meaningful careers. By participating in real word activities and completing their First aid certificate, students gain vital skills and first hand insight into what it means to support people. This early experience not only builds confidence and empathy and demystifies residential aged care but also helps young people make informed decisions about their future in the Sector,” said Amanda Davis, NV College Trainer and Assessor/Business Development Officer.
What to learn more about a career in care?
For more information on a hands on course and a career in aged care, disability or home and community care, NV College RTO ID 40787 can provide more information on 1300 655 224 or view our courses here.
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