Nov 28, 2011, 07:54 pm
Maddie & Skimmed
Fingers crossed that you get Challenger Maddie - I live about 2km from Murdoch - so it will be perfect for me. This semester I had to drive to Freo campus 2 days per week and it really added wasted time to your already busy week. I will be much happier at Murdoch.
Skimmed, it is 3 days per week for semester 1 and then 2 days per week for semester 2 and 3. This is because each semester (in Stage 2 and 3) you do 7 weeks of full time (Mon-Fri 8 hour day) prac shifts. So, the classroom time when not on prac is cut back to 2. Also, we have been told that the units you do in Stage 2 and 3 are harder and therefore require more study time at home. So I don't necessarily think that I will have more free time in Stage 2 and 3 - it will just be more full on and a 3 week + a 4 week prac block will be very tiring too. But bring it on - I love it.
In regards to experience - I didn't realise - but it doesn't actually matter if you haven't worked in health care in the past or not. It really goes on if you have done ANY work or work experience (regardless of the field). So I got full points on that because I am 37 years old and have worked for the last 22 years! Don't stress if you haven't worked in the field.
Honestly, I don't think it is that hard to get into - try not to stress.
The SJOG course is exactly the same - Dip of EN - but is based over 12 months. You don't get school holidays off - just a few weeks off over Xmas. You go 5 days a week 8am to 4pm or something crazy. They basically cram 18 months into 12 months. I have heard that it is VERY full on because you have to do things so quickly. BUT, if you are young and don't have a family to look after I think it is doable. I have 2 young kids and a business to run - so although I was lucky enough to be offered a spot - I had to turn it down as I didn't think I would be able to handle the work load and keep everything else organised. Also, I wanted to relax and enjoy my studies - which I have. If you are interested you can phone the Challenger TAFE info line and ask for the contact person. But, at the end of the day you get the very same qualifications - you just can get a job 6 months earlier. I know a few people that started the 12 month course this semester are transferring to the 18 month course because they can't afford to not work for the full 12 months - but don't have time to work and keep up with the studies. So beware if you are considering it. I highly recommend the 18 month course - it allows a bit of breathing time and for you to take in as much as possible without being too rushed.
I hope that helps guys. I know it is frustrating when you don't get all of the information you want.
Good luck! I am on holidays now until February 2012 - but I just want to get started again now!
Cheers
Rebecca
