National Skills Week: School based traineeship pathway helping boost the region’s future nursing workforce
Through innovative vocational education and training (VET) admission pathways, such as the school-based traineeship to nursing, the University of Newcastle is empowering students to build meaningful careers, particularly in high-demand sectors like healthcare.
The University’s commitment to practical, inclusive education aligns with National Skills Week, which this week celebrates the value of vocational learning across Australia.
The school-based traineeship to nursing pathway program provides a direct and supported pathway into the University’s Bachelor of Nursing, helping to address critical workforce needs in our region.
Second year Bachelor of Nursing student, Ella Bilton completed a School Based Traineeship in 2022 while in year 11 and credited the program to providing a strong foundation in both patient care and teamwork before starting her nursing degree.
“The traineeship pathway made the transition into university so much smoother. I had already developed skills in communication, personal care, and observations, which gave me the confidence to focus on building my knowledge and critical thinking as a nursing student,” said Ella.
“The encouragement I received from the nurses I worked alongside during my traineeship inspired me to pursue nursing. In the future, I hope to work in acute care, particularly trauma or emergency, where I can support patients and families during their most critical moments.”
More than 660 commencing students used a VET qualification as a pathway to the University in 2025. Since 2022, commencing enrolments from students who had completed a VET award course has increased by more than 50%, with Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Education seeing the most enrolments.
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said, the University’s school-based traineeship pathway to Nursing is a great example of how vocational pathways can lead to rewarding careers and help meet the needs of our local community.
“School based traineeships are a powerful way to introduce students to the healthcare workforce. We’re proud to offer pathways for these students who have gained real-world experience and offer a clear route into higher education and employment,” Professor Zelinsky said.
“These traineeships not only help students take their first steps into the profession but also create a clear and supported pathway into our Bachelor of Nursing program, meaning they are better prepared for the realities of a nursing degree and career.
“Our University proudly educates the most nurses who go on to rewarding careers with the Hunter New England Local Health District. We don’t take lightly our important role in educating the future medical and healthcare workforce.”
Over six decades, the University of Newcastle has opened doors to higher education for thousands and played a vital role in educating and training the workforce to help create a thriving region.
The University’s VET and pathway offerings are designed to meet the evolving needs of industry and the community and provide direct access to over 70 undergraduate degrees. Higher level vocational qualifications can even provide students with credit, so they can complete their degree faster.
Applications for the University’s school-based traineeship pathway to nursing are now open. For information about the pathway program and how to apply visit: www.newcastle.edu.au/study/undergraduate/admissions-and-entry/entry-options/school-based-traineeship
NSW Department of Education, TAFE NSW and registered non-government schools offer School Based Traineeships for high school students completing their HSC.
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