Aspiring nurses will now have a direct pathway to land their dream job after the University of Southern Queensland and WesTEC Trade Training Centre signed a new collaboration agreement.
Under the agreement, 20 eligible WesTEC students will have a guaranteed place in the University’s Bachelor of Nursing degree once they complete a Certificate III in Health Services.
Operated by Woodcrest State College and based at Springfield, WesTEC provides industry standard training to Year 10-12 students from six schools across the region in a number of training areas, including automotive, construction, engineering, hairdressing, health support services and logistics.
Deputy Head of the University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery Associate Professor Victoria Terry said the partnership was an exciting step forward for health care and education in the Springfield, Ipswich and surrounding areas.
“This agreement demonstrates a mutual commitment of offering high-quality and accessible education to students who want to become nurses,” Associate Professor Terry said.
“It means more students from this area will get to stay in their home region to study and potentially one day get to work and care for patients in their community.
“We look forward to welcoming the students to our campus in the coming years.”
Woodcrest State College executive principal and WesTEC chair Patrick Murphy said the partnership puts the needs of the students and community first.
“Nursing is going through a boom period in the Springfield and Ipswich area, and we’re delighted to partner the University of Southern Queensland to provide more skilled workers and fill a huge gap in our community,” he said.
Alfio Balsamo, Leanne Randolph, Bree Richters, Patrick Murphy, Associate Professor Victoria Terry, Trent Crausaz, Tegan Wolhuter and Brendan Barlow.