Banksia Villages recently announced a series of exciting new education initiatives as part of its strategic partnership with the University of Canberra (UC) Faculty of Health.
The initiatives include two annual academic programs to be delivered through the UC Faculty of Health: a post-graduate research grant program, and an undergraduate scholarship specifically designed to provide tertiary pathways in allied health, nursing, and public health for students from the Eurobodalla. Total annual funding of $17,500 will be provided through this initiative.
In considering the Banksia Villages Scholarship, Banksia’s Board and management were very keen to ensure that similar opportunities were provided for Banksia staff to pursue new skills and qualifications. Consequently, an internal scholarship program for Banksia staff has been established, designed to provide opportunities for them to participate in activities that materially benefit both their own personal development and that of Banksia Villages.
Banksia has adopted an innovative approach in introducing this program, with staff able to apply for a flexible range of study and development opportunities. This may include formal study; attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences; or even attending other sites to learn from fellow professionals about programs, facilities and strategies they are using to contribute to positive resident-centred outcomes.
Nik Petrovic-Turner with Banksia CEO Graham Wise
“This initiative is a very practical, accessible and valuable way for Banksia to support the development of our people, and will enable us to further integrate state of the art learning within our operations”, says Graham Wise, CEO.
The internal scholarship has been well received by Banksia staff, with the first application received shortly after the program announced. Nik Petrovic-Turner, one of Banksia’s Care staff at Banksia Lodge, applied for a scholarship to assist him in completing his Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance. Nik has been awarded $1,000 toward the completion of his course.