Aged Care Graduate Program Launched in WA

A graduate program aimed at developing the clinical and leadership skills of nurses and allied health staff in aged care has been launched in WA. 

Not-for-profit aged care provider Amana Living has created the “Amana Living Graduate Program for Health Care Professionals” in response to the gap in training and career progression opportunities in the sector.

The program has been developed by the Amana Living Training Institute, Amana Living’s registered training organisation. The aim is to nurture the next generation of aged care managers and leaders, providing new career pathways for nurses and allied health staff.

The 12-month program consists of clinical practice in an aged care environment, supported by experienced graduate mentors and on-site graduate buddies. On the job training and coaching will be provided to the selected candidates to assist them in developing the clinical and management skills needed to advance their career.

Stephanie Buckland, CEO of Amana Living, said: “Historically, graduate programs focus on registered nurses and are available through the hospital system. There isn’t a graduate program in aged care that addresses both clinical and management skills in the workplace.

“The program will help us to attract and retain nurses and allied health staff who want to work in aged care, yet have been put off by the lack of practical training which is bespoke to the sector. This program will help them transition from an acute setting and provide a clear pathway for progression.  It will also develop well rounded clinicians who are capable of managing a large team of staff and running a nursing home effectively.”

The annual program is open to existing Amana Living staff, as well as external applicants, and the first intake will commence training in February 2020. Applicants must have successfully completed either a Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse) or Bachelor of Nursing /Allied Health specialty and registered in the last three years.  The course is fully funded by Amana Living and successful external applicants will be offered a role with the organisation.

The program will give graduates a rich and textured experience with a comprehensive rotation schedule with Amana Living’s residential care, home care and corporate office teams. This approach provides maximum exposure to the diverse facets of aged care and a wide variety of learning opportunities in providing support for residents and clients with chronic and complex needs. 

On completion of the graduate program, staff can apply for the following positions: Service Manager, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Clinical Care Coordinator, Case Manager, Therapy Manager and Therapy Specialist.   

To enquire about the graduate program, contact: Rathini Sonnadara, Business Manager, Amana Living Training Institute, on 0400 767 616 or email training@amanaliving.com.au.

Find out more about Amana Living.