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Nurturing future leaders
At Programmed Care, we’re passionate about nurturing and developing talent. In 2021 we launched Programmed Edu.Care, an innovative traineeship in Individual Support designed to forge meaningful employment pathways within the Community Services sector. Our commitment to the "learn and earn" initiative ensures trainees receive a blend of classroom learning and hands-on experience, paving the way for a fulfilling career in disability support.
We’re extremely proud of our recent graduates, Georgina Kitchener and Amber Hitchmough, who embody the success and impact of the Edu.Care program. Their journey has been inspiring, marked by dedication, resilience, and a passion for making a difference.
Reflecting on her time at Programmed Care, Georgina shares, "I’ve really enjoyed the atmosphere in the office and the work with clients I engage with daily. There have been challenges, but the Programmed staff were always there to guide me. Even if it was just a chat over the phone, Programmed really prioritises you during this program and works with you towards your individual goals and needs." This sentiment highlights the supportive environment we strive to create for all our new starters.
Amber, who following the traineeship went on a well-deserved break traveling in Europe, sent a heartfelt message expressing her gratitude, "I enjoyed the opportunity to learn and have great support from the Programmed Care team." Her words underscore the value of the training and support provided throughout the program.
Both Georgina and Amber excelled in the program, completing it within 14 months rather than the assigned 18 months. This accelerated achievement was possible thanks to their hard work and the robust support system provided by Programmed Care, the TAFE, and Programmed Training Services. With Charlotte Bounds from Programmed Care as their mentor, Georgina and Amber have acquired the skills and knowledge necessary to support clients with various care needs.
One notable accomplishment involves supporting a young male client with an Acquired Brain Injury. With assistance from our trainees, he progressed from using a PEG to eating a thickened diet and is now able to stand for short periods and transfer without a hoist.
Charlotte, their proud mentor, reflects on the program’s success, "Both trainees were eager to learn and upskill. The support that Programmed Care provided during their Traineeship enabled them to grow and develop, with the potential to transition into other roles within Programmed Care in the future."
As Georgina joins Programmed Care as a Disability Support Worker and Amber prepares to rejoin after her travels, we are confident that their contributions will continue to enhance the quality of care we provide. Georgina summed up her experience by stating, "Programmed has provided the building blocks for me to reach my full potential as a Disability Support Worker. What began as a role I wasn’t sure I could handle has become the most rewarding, passionate, and fun career I could imagine."
At Programmed Care, we are more than just a workplace; we are a community dedicated to growth, support, and excellence in care. We look forward to nurturing more talent and witnessing many more success stories like those of Georgina and Amber.