Learning Opportunities Lead to Careers at Resthaven

Registered Nurse, Kirsty Ghassemi, is taking full advantage of the professional development opportunities available at Resthaven and in the wider community.

"Kirsty began with Resthaven Malvern as a personal care assistant as she completed her Bachelor of Nursing," says Wendy Morey, Resthaven Executive Manager Workforce Development and Governance.

This on the job experience in interacting with older people is really helpful in determining whether aged care is the career for you. The opportunity to get to know the elderly people, their lives and wisdom, is life changing for many.

As a new graduate, Kirsty was supported through a Resthaven Graduate Nurse Program. Such programs are designed to enable newly qualified nurses to make a positive transition into the work place as they practice nursing and become leaders in their teams.

The Graduate Nurse Program aims to provide newly graduated Registered Nurses with a specific aged care learning program, to develop leadership and clinical reasoning skills.

A Preceptor is provided to support and mentor the graduates. During the year, graduates attend several workshops, where aged care specific topics are presented to assist in their development and practical understanding.

During the year, graduates attend several workshops, where aged care-specific topics are presented to assist in their development.

"We hope that the outcome of their learning and experience will train them to be quality aged care nurses who will look to stay in the industry," says Wendy.

Kirsty continued to study following her graduation. She successfully completed an Honours program, which involved exploring the ways in which residents who are living with a diagnosis of dementia interact with and express enjoyment in arts and craft.

Manager, Terry Kirkwood, is delighted with Kirsty’s progress, saying, "Kirsty is a very intelligent and positive team member, who sets a high standard for others to follow."

"She is a great role model to others, and because she is keen to be a lifelong learner she has already commenced a Masters program to further develop the outcomes of her honours work."

"I have watched Kirsty transition to the role of a Registered Nurse. Her journey with us has been a pleasure to watch and I look forward to engaging with her as she undertakes further study."

Resthaven employs more than 2,200 staff who undergo ongoing training, much of which is via the Workforce Development team.

Resthaven also offer a broad professional development program and recommendations for online and on-site learning opportunities for staff. These can lead to fulfilling career paths for people with a heart for working with older people.

Find out more about Resthaven.