Canowindra local, Mikaela Slattery has successfully gained employment with Blayney Veterinary Hospital during practical work placement as part of her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing at TAFE NSW Orange.
Mikaela is one of 11 students participating in practical work placement two days a week as part of the course. “This particular class of students is really dedicated and focussed. This is matched equally by their enthusiasm. The feedback we’re receiving from the participating veterinary clinics has been really positive,” TAFE NSW Animal Studies Teacher Kelli Johnston said.
“The work placements began in February, and the fact that half of the class has already secured part-time employment at their respective clinics, not only proves how talented this class is, but also demonstrates the exciting employment outcomes as a result of studying at TAFE NSW.”
“Every January we are approached by students who see themselves as veterinary nurses and are seeking workplace experience.
These requests aren’t taken lightly by us – we weigh up their personal attributes and see if they are a good fit for our team,” Blayney Veterinary Hospital owner Dr Ruth Thompson said.
“Mikaela walked into the practice with a resume in hand and the first thing we noticed was how nicely she presented and how politely she introduced herself. After interviewing well, I had no hesitation in asking Mikaela to join us – I just had the feeling she could be a future employee.”
“As the year has progressed, we have found Mikaela to be a charming person, hard worker, an excellent colleague and very, very reliable. Now when another nurse or kennel assistant is unable to come to work it’s Mikaela we turn to because she’s part of the family now.”