Area Mental Health Service
Mental Health Direct Entry
Frequently Asked Questions
Working Conditions
1. Can I take Leave during the Transition to (Specialty) Practice ( New Graduate) Programme?
Participants are eligible for all normal leave provisions.
2. Can I work part-time?
It is possible to work part-time and participate in the programme. The transcript issued at the successful completion of the programme will reflect this. It is, however, required that all theory classes are undertaken within 12 months in the manner and order of the programme and that assessment pieces be completed in this time frame.
3. How long do I have to complete the Programme?
The programme is required to be completed within a 2 year period. This extension of time shall be only offered by negotiation.
Programme Structure
4. How Many Classes are there?
There are 15 days of class room theory that are organised into 5 blocks of three days each.
5. Where are the classes held?
Classes are held on the Macquarie Hospital campus in North Ryde. There is ample free parking available on site. Macquarie Hospital is located in a fairly central position for the mental health facilities of Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service.
6. Am I required to pay for this education?
The programme is free of charge but only offered to employees of NSCCAHS mental health services who are supported by their facility to participate.
7. What clinical requirements are there in the programme?
Clinical experience is a central component of the programme and at least 3 rotations shall occur. Acute and recovery services are required as two of these placements.
8. Will all my rotations occur in my employing facility?
Ordinarily this would be so, but occasionally a clinical placement on another NSCCAHS mental health facility may be negotiated.
9. What Assessment is required for successful completion of the programme?
There are 4 written pieces of assessment and 4 process recordings during the 12 month period. In addition a performance appraisal is completed at the end of each clinical placement. The standards of the assessment are moderated through the University of Technology, Sydney.
10. Are there any other components of the programme?
Participants are offered clinical supervision as a supportive activity to help practice development.
What Recognition is afforded at Completion of the Programme?
11. Academic
Both the University of Technology, Sydney and the University of Newcastle offer credit against some of the post-graduate programmes offered in health and mental health nursing programmes
12. Industrial
NSCCAHS recognises successful completion of the programme for application of the Continuing Education Allowance under the provisions of the Nurses Award.
Did you know? There is something for everyone in NSCCH!
