Rebekah thought she couldn’t -TAFE Queensland proved she could

Turns out, her next chapter was sitting right at the dinner table. With a nurse for a husband and mother-in-law also in scrubs, the family trade was calling.

“I never considered myself academic, so nursing always felt out of reach,” Rebekah said.

“But my mother-in-law explained how TAFE Queensland’s nursing courses were taught in a way that’s practical, hands-on and in a simulated hospital environment.”

That made all the difference.

Rebekah enrolled in the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) at TAFE Queensland’s Southport campus, completing the program through the Ramsay Health Care partnership.

That decision would become the turning point not only in her career, but in her confidence.

“With TAFE Queensland’s flexible learning, practical approach and teachers with a wealth of knowledge I found I could do things I never imagined,” she said.

“Turns out, I just needed the right support.”

After graduating, Rebekah secured a role as an Enrolled Nurse (EN) in a Day Surgery Unit. It felt right, but she knew she had more to give.

So, when TAFE Queensland launched its Bachelor of Nursing program, Rebekah didn’t hesitate.

“The way they taught the diploma was exceptional. If they brought that same hands-on style to the bachelor, I was all in,” she said.

And TAFE Queensland absolutely delivered.

“The endless opportunities to practice clinical skills in the simulated hospital environment, the mock emergencies, the way they prepare you to think like a Registered Nurse (RN), it’s incredible,” said Rebekah.

“You’re not just learning how to apply a blood pressure cuff, you’re building the muscle memory and confidence so that in placement, you can focus on your patient, not the task.”

Now at 34-years-old and halfway through the Bachelor of Nursing (HED007), Rebekah strongly recommends doing the EN to RN pathway to future nurses.

“Especially those who are hands-on learners and need the flexibility of being able to earn while you learn,” she said.

“TAFE produces graduates who are ready to hit the ground running. If you’re considering nursing, take the leap. You won’t regret it.”

For Rebekah, that leap has brought her more than a new career, it has given her a goal.

“I would love to eventually work in cardiac care. I’m drawn to the complexity and urgency of cardiology. It’s where I see myself thriving.”

With academic scholarships now available, there’s never been a better time to begin your Bachelor of Nursing journey at TAFE Queensland. Save up to $750 per unit in your first semester - that could mean an extra $3,000 to help support your study journey. Eligible students will automatically receive the scholarship upon successful enrolment, no additional applications required. (T&Cs apply).