Local collaboration inspires health careers

Local Broken Hill organisations have band together to showcase health careers to rural high school students. For six consecutive years the Broken Hill University Department of Rural Health (BHUDRH), the Far West Local Health District (FWLHD) and Willyama High School have conducted two-week work experience placements at Broken Hill Health Service.

Throughout the work experience journey, each organisation plays a crucial role in the development and execution of the placement, making sure students feel supported and gain valuable experience whilst away from their studies.

Rachel Lysaght, Education Support Officer at BHUDRH, has been organising these placements for many years, coordinating the student’s compliance and vaccinations. The behind-the-scenes preparation that Rachel does ensures FWLHD staff have all the resources they need. The benefit of this collaboration means Rachel remains a constant contact throughout the placement to both the LHD and Willyama, should they need extra help.

Once the students arrive at Broken Hill Hospital, Rachel inducts and introduces them to the FWLHD team. Students will then spend two weeks observing the surgical, medical and paediatric wards, along with other departments like dietetics, speech pathology, physiotherapy and medical imaging. Going around various wards and allied health departments allows students to gain insight into different health disciplines, understand their community’s health needs and are encouraged to ask questions along the way.

Linking BHUDRH and FWLHD with the students is Willyama High School Careers Advisor. This role ensures all schoolwork is up to date so students can fully immerse themselves in the two-week placement.

Moving forward the team at each local organisation will continue to work together so students at Willyama High School can further their skills and knowledge about the health and wellbeing of their local community and hopefully pursue a career in health after school.

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If you’re looking to make a difference, checkout our Placements page for more information about rural placement opportunities.