Ramsay Health’s Undergraduate Cadetship Program Case Study
Strengthening the future nursing workforce for students, industry and community.
Ramsay Health Care and Chisholm partnered to create an innovative nursing cadetship program. This initiative supports enrolled nursing students through paid employment, structured clinical experience, and a direct pathway into graduate roles.
The partnership has proven highly successful in strengthening workforce sustainability while giving students continuity, confidence and career clarity.
The context
In 2022, Australia’s healthcare system was under significant strain. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated workforce shortages, with experienced nurses leaving the profession and demand for care increasing.
As a leading private healthcare provider with more than 70 facilities across Australia, Ramsay recognised the need to proactively invest in the future nursing workforce.
With a long-standing partnership already in place, including student placements and training collaborations, Ramsay approached Chisholm to look beyond traditional placements and create a more sustainable pipeline of nurses.
Rachel Gale, Ramsay's National Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Manager, said, "Ramsay wanted to invest in the future nursing workforce through the cadetship program and provide career development opportunities. Nurses need support from the infancy of their careers, right through to achieving advanced practice, and we can provide this."
The approach
Together, Ramsay and Chisholm designed an undergraduate cadetship program that reimagines clinical placement.
Instead of completing placements across multiple providers, selected Diploma of Nursing students are invited to complete all required clinical hours within Ramsay facilities – while also being employed as cadets.
Cadets gain experience across operating suites, maternity, mental health, cardiac services and rehabilitation, supported by Ramsay educators and clinical teams invested in their long-term development.
The program provides:
- a structured, supportive transition from student to practitioner
- immersion in a consistent workplace culture
- a guaranteed interview for Ramsay’s graduate pathway or enrolled nurse positions.
From the outset, cadets are welcomed as future colleagues – reinforcing belonging and professional identity early in their careers.
The impact
Since its launch, the cadetship has been a standout success – growing steadily while delivering meaningful outcomes for students and industry. The inaugural intake saw 16 students enter the program, with six cohorts since.
“Cadets are taken under the Ramsay wings from the moment they begin their placement – supported, coached, and prepared for the transition into the workforce.”Lauren CarterClinical Placement Teacher, Chisholm
A standout achievement has been one of Chisholm’s cadets being recognised as the Victorian Cadet of the Year, highlighting the program’s ability to develop high-performing, work-ready graduates.
For Ramsay Health Care
- Stronger workforce planning and succession.
- Early identification and development of future talent.
- More certainty and efficiency in the recruitment process.
For students
- Greater confidence and hands-on capability.
- Clearer career pathways.
- Early professional networks within a leading healthcare provider.
For the sector and community
- A more stable, practice-ready nursing workforce.
- Greater continuity of care at a critical time for healthcare services.
What’s next
Due to its success, Chisholm and Ramsay Health Care will continue this partnership, with a shared focus on quality, student support and long-term workforce outcomes.
The program continues to evolve on Ramsay’s side, with smaller cohorts, stronger preparation for graduate pathways, and increased access to real-world roles within Ramsay facilities while students are still studying.
Since its inception, Chisholm has also introduced a dedicated coordinator to support students, enhance their experience, and maintain strong industry connections throughout their placement journey.
Together, this ongoing partnership continues to strengthen the connection between education and industry – supporting students, healthcare providers and the communities they serve.
