Nurturing growth in aged care

October 24, 2024

Pictured above, from left to right: Amelia Gray and Elizabeth Carter

Our staff are the heart of our organisation, and we are committed to creating a skilled and engaged workforce. In line with this strategy, we partnered with the Universities of Wollongong and Canberra to deliver a bespoke program for Registered Nurses transitioning to aged care to help bridge the gap between hospital-based and gerontological nursing.

Elevate is a professional development program designed to support team members at various stages of their nursing careers. It aims to create a clearer clinical and leadership career pathway for Registered Nurses, supporting their academic growth by allowing graduates to earn credit points towards a postgraduate qualification. Due to the program's resounding success, we are currently taking expressions of interest for the second round.

Amelia Gray and Elizabeth Carter are just two of the 11 graduates who recently completed the program.

Amelia is celebrating 16 years with Southern Cross Care, growing her career from carer to Facility Manager.

Amelia began her aged care journey with a passion for helping people, and with the support of Southern Cross Care. Her career was propelled into a leadership role where she now manages Mawson Court Residential Care Home at Caves Beach.

Her dedication to professional growth didn't end with her job title; she has actively pursued further development through various programs the organisation offers.

"Aged care is always evolving, so we need to upskill continuously, and I'm really fortunate to be offered training to continue my development," she said.

"I recently completed the Elevate program, which is invaluable for those transitioning to aged care. It enhances your skills in residential care and provides a broader understanding of gerontological nursing, especially as it has become a more acute environment. Additionally, I have participated in the ELDAC (End of Life Directions for Aged Care) program, received a scholarship for the Health Immunisation Course, and I am currently pursuing leadership studies."

Elizabeth has over 10 years of nursing experience and currently serves as a Clinical Care Coordinator in Corowa, Karinya Residential Care. After a long career in hospital settings, the Elevate program provided Elizabeth with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the unique aspects of aged care.

"It helped me to better understand the specific requirements in aged care and allowed me to reflect on gaps in my knowledge, identifying areas where I could improve. It was a real learning curve, but a rewarding one," she said. 

"I learned that it is important to be self-aware and build on the skills that you already possess. For me personally, I learnt to be more flexible and creative when things don't go to plan.

"Regardless of your nursing background, the program is a beneficial experience in furthering your professional development. There is always more to learn clinically and personally." 

We are committed to creating opportunities for our workforce to grow with us. If you work with Southern Cross Care and want to participate in the Elevate Program, expressions of interest remain open. Please email learning@sccliving.org.au or join our team and explore our job opportunities here: https://www.sccliving.org.au/get-involved/registered-nurse-careers