Charles Sturt University will play an important role in a new partnership that will support Bachelor of Nursing students in Taree.

Taree Universities Campus has announced its first corporate sponsorship for the degree, which will have its first intake of students in March 2021.

HealtheCare Australia will provide a $100,000 in-kind donation to support Nursing and future Allied Health courses through TUC, with the University to provide online Bachelor of Nursing study through the Taree campus.

Charles Sturt Executive Dean of Science Professor Megan Smith encouraged potential online nursing students wishing to study through the TUC to apply.

“Charles Sturt University warmly welcomes this partnership with Taree Universities Campus and looks forward to utilising our staff’s expertise to instruct the next generation of nurses to service this region’s growing healthcare needs,” Professor Smith said.

Charles Sturt Director External Engagement Ms Kate Wood-Foye acknowledged the strong interest across the Mid Coast in nursing and allied health services.

“This partnership represents a fantastic opportunity for nursing and allied health students to learn these vital skills without having to leave their home region,” Ms Wood-Foye said.

“The excitement surrounding the arrival of the Bachelor of Nursing is evidenced by the expressions of interest already received from potential Nursing and Allied Health students.”

TUC Chairperson Dr Alison McIntosh welcomed the ‘outstanding’ show of support from HealtheCare Australia.

“We would like to extend our enormous thanks to TUC Board Member and HealtheCare Australia Managing Director Steve Atkins,” Dr McIntosh said.

“HealtheCare Australia, as our first corporate sponsor, will facilitate unique work placements, tutoring and training for Nursing students at a number of the top medical facilities in Taree and Forster-Tuncurry.

“The opportunities this will open up for our region’s students will be life changing and, in turn, our region’s health and medical centres will benefit from the skilled graduates,” she said.

HCA Managing Director Mr Steve Atkins said Healthe Care would work closely with TUC to develop future health care professionals who were fully aligned with local services.

“We’re all about helping our students to succeed and our businesses to benefit from skilled graduates,” Mr Atkins said.

There is more information about Charles Sturt’s Bachelor of Nursing at the course’s website.

For further information on courses or general enquiries call 1300 169 990 or visit the TUC website.