Media releases

Federation TAFE nursing student Samantha Brown has been nominated for an award for Victorian Trainee of the Year.

Samantha is one of 44 finalists in the 67^th Victorian Training Awards, which recognises the achievements of apprentices, students, teachers, trainers and employers.

Samantha completed her Diploma of Nursing at Federation TAFE, which included a work placement at Ballarat Health Service where she was able to put her training into practice.

Always intrigued by nursing, Samantha realised when she finished high school that she wasn't ready to make a long-term career choice.

The 29-year-old worked for several years as a conveyancer and then in a fast-paced role managing a top hotel in Ballarat.

With her interest in nursing never waning, Samantha tested the waters through the Traineeship model at Federation TAFE. She began by enrolling in a Certificate III of Individual and Ageing Support to be sure this was the right career path for her, before going on to enrol in a Diploma of Nursing.

Samantha has been nominated for the Victorian Trainee of the Year award for her dedication to her studies and performance during work placements within the Ballart Health Services.

The award winner will be announced at the award ceremony on 16 October.

For more information about studying nursing at Federation TAFE visit here on our website.

Quotes attributable to Federation University Pro Vice-Chancellor (Vocational Education and Training) and CEO TAFE, Liam Sloan

“We are so proud of Samantha for being nominated for the Victorian training awards.”

“She has demonstrated a passion and commitment to excellence in nursing throughout her studies, and this nomination recognises that.”

“Samantha’s experience shows that TAFE is an excellent choice for anyone looking to start a new career. Our students gain real industry experience through traineeships that combine study with working for some of our region’s biggest employers.”

Quotes attributable to Federation TAFE Diploma of Nursing student Samantha Brown

“The traineeship has been one of the most positive life decisions I have made. I have developed purposeful job-specific skills in a way that I would not have been able to in a contemporary university setting.”

“The opportunity to work within the field whilst studying was a major draw card. It has been invaluable for my education and my future career prospects as I was able to work within the facilities of Ballarat Health Services giving me networking opportunities and helping me make a smooth transition into a professional working career as a nurse.”