Deadly start to a career in health

Metro North Health Deadly Start traineeships provide a learning pathway that combines theory and hands-on practical work. It provides local high school students with a great insight into exciting job opportunities in the health sector.

Caboolture Hospital Deadly Start trainee Charlee McKinnon is thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to work in communications. The traineeship has helped Charlee discover new interests, including video editing, events, photography and writing.

The COVID-19 outbreak led to Charlee’s first traineeship being cancelled, leaving her feeling unsure about what career pathways were available to her and what industries would spark her interest.

“I believe this traineeship was meant to be. It has given me so many opportunities such as further connection to culture, job opportunities and a practical, real-life circumstance to express my interests in,” Charlee said.

“After school, I would like to study communications at university and hopefully land a role in communications at Metro North.

“Excitingly, the traineeship also offers me the option of having a certificate entry into university, further expanding my opportunities after school.”

Charlee feels extremely grateful to learn from and be surrounded by such wonderful staff.

Jamie-Lee Black is another Deadly Start trainee enjoying her traineeship in the Gentlemen and Ladies Ageing with Dignity (GLAD) Unit at Caboolture Hospital. She has enjoyed providing companionship to the patients and playing card games with them.

Jamie-Lee was unsure of what she wanted to pursue after school until she started her traineeship.

“After school, I want to complete a bridging course in science so that I can work as an occupational therapist,” Jamie-Lee said.

Completing her Certificate II and III qualifications will help Jamie-Lee to enter university and then move into employment.

“I feel extremely grateful for this opportunity and to have such a supportive and helpful team around me.”