We use cookies, including those from third-party providers, to enhance your online experience and deliver personalised advertisements. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies and our privacy policy. 

Healthy Pathways Program

TAFE Queensland and Darling Downs Health are partnering to offer high school students a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience in the health sector while completing a nationally recognised qualification in 2027.

This unique, industry-aligned program gives eligible Year 10 and 11 students the opportunity to complete the Certificate II in Health Support Services (HLT23221) while still at school, within a clinical environment.

With growing demand for health support roles across regional Queensland, this program equips students with hands-on skills for work in hospitals, aged care, and community health settings, while also introducing them to career pathways in administration, logistics, allied health, and patient support.

Study close to home

The 2027 Healthy Pathways Program is expected to be offered at the following locations: Goondiwindi, Toowoomba, Oakey, Dalby, Kingaroy, Warwick or Stanthorpe. 

Please note: delivery locations are subject to change.

What to expect

The program runs for 9 months (in line with the school term) and uses a blended learning model, where students will:  

  • Attend weekly online tutorials (including sessions with Darling Downs health professionals).
  • Participate in workplace learning through hospital and health service visits.
  • Complete self-directed study supported by experienced TAFE Queensland educators.
  • Have access to experienced educators, mentoring, and learning resources.
  • Gain skills in infection control, workplace safety, communication in health settings, teamwork, and more.

Key dates

  • Applications are open on: Friday 11 September 2026
  • Applications close: Friday 9 October 2026
  • Successful candidates announced: Friday 6 November 2026
  • Program commences: Term 1 2027

Please note: places are limited and subject to finalisation with regional locations. Unsuccessful applicants will be automatically considered for other Certificate II programs.

To apply please use the code: TQSW27DDHS

How it works

Build the skills and confidence you need to kick-start your career in the healthcare industry with this entry-level course. 

The program runs for 9 months and uses a blended learning model including workplace-based training, self-directed study, Zoom sessions, and face-to-face visits. Units cover infection control, workplace safety, communication, First Aid, and more.

Delivered by TAFE Queensland in partnership with Darling Downs Health, students will gain real-world experience in clinical environments, learn from industry professionals, and explore future career pathways in healthcare.

Darling Downs Health is committed to equipping students with the skills needed for a range of entry-level health support roles, helping to address the growing skills shortage across the Darling Downs and South West Queensland.

You’ll earn up to 4 QCE points, gain nationally recognised skills in health support, and have the opportunity to explore multiple career pathways before you graduate school.

With over 140 years of experience in delivering vocational education and training, TAFE Queensland is the state’s largest and most trusted training provider. We offer practical, industry-relevant training to more than 139,000 students annually. 

Course requirements and expectations

Before deciding if a course is right for you, it's important to make an informed choice and consider the key skills, knowledge, and assessment requirements involved. Review the inherent requirements for this course and reflect on whether any of them might present difficulties for you, and if they align with your abilities and goals.

If you feel you may have challenges due to a disability, a health condition, or for any other reason, we encourage you to speak with a regional Education Manager, a student services team member, or the regional AccessAbility Officer to discuss your concerns and confirm if the course is suitable for you. 

As part of the enrolment process for this course, you will need to complete the Inherent requirements declaration to confirm that you have read and understood the information provided.

Units you will complete

Certificate II in Health Support Services (HLT23221)

  • Participate in workplace health and safety (HLTWHS001)
  • Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control (HLTINF001)
  • Communicate and work in health or community services (CHCCOM005)
  • Maintain a high standard of service (CHCCCS010)
  • Prepare and maintain beds (CHCCCS012)
  • Transport individuals (CHCCCS026)
  • Respond effectively to behaviours of concern (CHCCCS020)
  • Work with diverse people (CHCDIV001)
  • Plan and apply time management (BSBPEF202)
  • Interpret and apply medical terminology (BSBMED301)
  • Conduct manual tasks safely (HLTWHS005)
  • Provide First Aid (HLTAID011)

Uniform requirements

Additional PPE or uniform items will be outlined during orientation.

 

Related news and events