[EnglishGirlInOz]

Forgive my lame title - but wasn't sure how else to word it! I'm hoping some experienced ex-patters can give me advice. I've tried to consult the wonderful world of Google, but it's left me with my head spinning!:confused2:
My partner is currently in Melbourne, on a 457 visa. Myself and Daughter are covered on the visa, but are currently still in the UK for various reasons, and hope to join him soon.

I'm wondering weather when I arrive down under, I would be able to train as a Nurse, more specifically within Paediatrics.
Unfortunately, I left education in the UK at 16, not knowing what do do, so never studied A-Levels or whent to Uni, so all I have are GCSE's .

Would I be able to do some sort of 3 or 4 year "apprenticeship" type course in Australia, whereby I can earn and learn at the same time? Is there any type of government funding behing it that would help with funding my studies?

It's something i'd really love to do, and I understand that Australia is crying out for nurses, so i'm sure i'd never be stuck for work when I eventually qualified. I'm just gutted that I never worked hard enough at school as a teenager, and now i'm paying the ultimate price for it!

Can anyone shed any light...?

 

[Guest]

Not looking good I'm afraid. To train as nurse you need to go to university. Which will probably mean going to TAFE to get the required qualifications for a few years. then straight into uni for 3 or 4 years.

On a 457 you are classed as an international student meaning you do not pay the local fees but international rates. And no student loans for living costs or to pay the fees. I dont think apprenticeship are available for nurses as there are particular requirements set by the nursing board that need university level study. And apprenticeships are only available to citizens and PR holders even if there was one you fancied.

Now if your hubby is an a particularly well paid job that may not be an issue but otherwise it'll be a killer!