Sport
10 February, 2024
Healthy way to learn at school
A number of year 10 and 11 students at Toogoolawah State High School (TSHS) are undertaking a new Certificate in Health course, held each Wednesday and offered through Connect ‘n’ Grow.
Students can do a Certificate II in Health Support Services for one year, and then do a Certificate III in Health and Services Assistance the following year.
Connect ‘n’ Grow schools relationship manager, Nikki Bowes, said a number of universities offered direct entry to students who finished their Certificate III.
Ms Bowes said the course was competency-based and very practical, which supported students with learning difficulties so they could still complete a qualification.
“Career opportunities don’t just fall within nursing and hospitals – they can get work doing community nursing, allied health assistant, GP practice, radiography assistant, pathology assistant and so many more,” Ms Bowes said.
TSHS teacher Carla Cerchi said the first topic was infection control, involving looking at what pathogen, microorganisms and agents of infections are and how to control infection.
Mrs Cerchi said this included looking at personal hygiene and the use of hygiene equipment and cleaning up biological materials.
“They do lots of weekly small assessments rather than a few larger assessments, which gives everyone the opportunity to show their understanding and skills,” she said.
Mrs Cerchi said there would be an opportunity for students to obtain a blue card, which is complementary as part of the course.
“I just think its an excellent course for students to undertake,” she said.
“The area has a high need, with huge job opportunities and prospects.
“So, it gives students the skills to walk into health care services with a qualification.
“It also gives students who usually don’t go to university or who end up dropping out of school, the opportunity and reason to stay in school, to achieve a certificate and real experience to succeed after school.”
Course trainer Luanne Donohoe said the course led students into any health careers, and was a stepping stone so they could start working in hospitals.
“With industry connections, there are opportunities to complete the Certificate III as a traineeship,” Ms Donohoe said.
Year 11 student Kate Hudson said her favourite thing about the course so far was learning how to be more hygienic and how things can be spread.
Year 10 student Kaylee Hill said the course was a great stepping stone if one wanted to do anything in health, like nursing or becoming a doctor.
“I want to get into phycology, so this will help me do that,” she said.
