Equipping students for real-world healthcare careers through hands-on VET training

Hampton Park Secondary College in Victoria has officially opened its brand-new Health Simulation Room — a purpose-built facility designed to give students in the VCE VET Health Services program access to hands-on, industry-relevant training in a professional, hospital-grade environment.

This cutting-edge facility demonstrates the school’s deep commitment to vocational education and training (VET), enabling students to step into simulated clinical settings and practice healthcare procedures in a safe, realistic environment.

“It is crucial for all VETDSS programs to have the support of Principal class to provide the required facilities and equipment," says Carolyn Jenkins, VET Coordinator at Hampton Park SC. "Hampton Park is fortunate to have secured internal funding to bring this space to life. No external funds were available, but we knew how important it was to invest in our students’ futures.”

A Realistic Hospital Environment – Right on Campus

The simulation room replicates a rehabilitation hospital ward, complete with:

• Hospital-grade beds and equipment

• Clinical hand-washing and hygiene stations

• Anatomical charts and medical displays

• Natural lighting and clean, clinical aesthetics

This space enables students to practise core health procedures like measuring blood pressure, recording patient vitals, and applying infection control standards - all under the guidance of experienced trainers Lizl Tregidga and Brittany Raynes.

Empowering Students Through Practical Learning

Trainers Lizl and Brittany are passionate about providing real-world healthcare education. They’ve already seen how the new facility is enhancing students’:

• Confidence

• Collaboration skills

• Professional behaviours

• Competency in clinical tasks

“This new space bridges the gap between theory and practice,” explains Brittany. “It’s helping students apply their learning in a way that’s meaningful and aligned with industry expectations.”

What’s Inside the Health Simulation Room?

The facility features a wide range of tools and spaces to support practical learning and theoretical development:

Learning Zones

• Clinical Skills Area: For practising patient care techniques
• Infection Control Zone: Featuring a dedicated hand hygiene station
• Resource Library: With textbooks, supplies, and educational models
• Changing Room: Equipped with scrubs to mimic real medical settings

Equipment and Resources

• Anatomical torso and skeleton models
• Stethoscopes, BP monitors, and diagnostic tools
• Medical storage, posters, and wall-mounted charts

Preparing for Health & Community Services Careers

Students using the new simulation room will engage in:

• Patient care scenarios and clinical roleplays
• Medical procedure practice in safe conditions
• Infection control and hygiene protocols
• Team-based health simulations

These learning opportunities support clear, structured pathways into further study, traineeships, and employment in the health and community services sectors.

A Bright Future for Vocational Health Training

This innovative upgrade positions Hampton Park SC as a leader in VET health education in Victoria. The simulation room not only enriches the student experience — it also builds critical employability skills.

“We’re proud to offer our students a space that mirrors industry,” says Carolyn. “It’s about preparing them for success beyond the school gates.”

The Health Simulation Room is now fully integrated into the school’s Health and Community Services curriculum, helping students graduate with the skills, confidence, and practical experience to thrive in Australia's evolving healthcare landscape.