TAFE SA unveils brand new nursing facility

A new, state-of-the-art health learning precinct has been built at TAFE SA’s City Campus, as the training provider continues its phased approach to return to onsite training.

Nursing is one of several priority courses that have recommenced practical training on campus, ahead of the majority of courses returning for practical training next week (June 1).

TAFE SA has refurbished several classrooms on the second floor of its Currie Street Campus to form two clinical skills labs with 16 nursing beds, as well as a skills lab for aged care training and a simulated health clinic for pathology collection.

The new health learning precinct is part of a $1.8 million development of TAFE SA’s Adelaide City Campus, which also includes new hair and beauty training areas and complementary health training spaces.

The nursing clinical area includes mannequins and has been built to replicate a hospital and industry environment.

Premier Steven Marshall said it was fantastic to see students back training on campus as restrictions continue to be lifted across South Australia, following the state’s strong response to the coronavirus pandemic.

“We want to get South Australia moving again, and it is great news for our state that TAFE SA is transitioning back to practical, face to face learning so quickly,” said Premier Marshall.

“Providing learning on site gives students better access to educators and experts, and better access to specialist facilities just like this state-of-the-art nursing facility at TAFE’s City Campus.

“South Australia has led the nation in getting our school students back on site, and now our higher education students are benefiting from a return to practical teaching that is critical to their training.”

Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the new facility will play an important role in skilling the next generation of nurses in South Australia.

“It is vital that we have world class facilities to train our next generation of nurses and health workers, and TAFE SA has transformed this section of its city campus into exactly that,” said Minister Wade.

“TAFE SA’s new health learning precinct will replicate the environment and scenarios that students will experience in their nursing careers, preparing them to be ready from the minute they walk into their new teams.

“We anticipate this facility will be very popular with students, and its proximity to the broader Adelaide CBD health precinct will bring immense opportunities for partnerships.”

TAFE SA Chief Executive David Coltman welcomed the return to face-to-face training.

“We are always focused on quality and innovation, as well as providing state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation labs so that our students are learning skills for the future,” said Mr Coltman.

“For our nursing students, they will continue to receive theory training using online platforms, while attending on site for vital practical activities and assessments.

“We remain focused on keeping our students and staff safe for all program areas, including nursing, which means social distancing, hygiene protocols and reduced time spent on site.”

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