Brigitte Dunse: Nurturing Passion and Purpose in Aged Care Students

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Brigitte Dunse: Nurturing Passion and Purpose in Aged Care Students

Monday, 14 April 2025

From her very first days on the job, aged care has been more than a career for this Wodonga TAFE teacher — it's been a passion. “I began my study as a Div 1 Registered Nurse and whilst studying I worked in aged care,” she explains. “I loved working in aged care from the start of my career.”

That early love for the sector soon evolved into leadership, with roles as a Unit Manager across a variety of residential care settings. But it was the joy of mentoring that nudged her towards teaching. “I loved mentoring staff and in particular students who would be doing placement at the facilities,” she says. “My colleague started teaching and convinced me to follow that path as well. I have had a balance of teaching and clinical work for the past 12 years.”

Now, as a teacher, she’s focused on sharing not just skills and knowledge, but enthusiasm for a vital and often overlooked part of the health system. “I love imparting knowledge and skill and hopefully passion for this part of the health sector,” she says. “Aged care does not occur only in residential care but the home and community sector, and of course a large part of our patients in the acute sector are aged care patients. Aged care skills are invaluable.”

It’s clear she believes aged care training isn’t just relevant — it’s essential. “They are the foundation of good care to a person at their most vulnerable stage of life,” she explains. “Good care can make such a difference to a person’s life and provides reassurance to their family.”

One of the most rewarding parts of the job, she says, is seeing students develop a real curiosity and commitment to making a difference. “When you know a student you have helped mentor will make a valuable contribution to aged care — that’s what makes it worthwhile.”

Her teaching philosophy centres around helping students connect theory with real-world care. “I think marrying theory with practice is when it all makes sense for the student. Exposing students to practical experience as much as possible is important in helping them make sense of what we do and why we do it.”

When it comes to encouraging future aged care professionals, she doesn’t sugar-coat the challenges — but she does shine a light on the rewards. “Aged care is going through a difficult time at present,” she says. “There has never been a more critical time for people who have a genuine interest in working with aged care clients to enter the industry. Aged care needs people with integrity and compassion.”

She describes the profession as one that delivers deep and lasting impact. “In aged care, you will meet memorable people, who have amazing life stories,” she says. “You may be there to celebrate their 100th birthday, comforting them when their lifetime partner passes away, being there when they meet their great grandchild. You will be involved in various events in people’s lives — even the privilege of providing care when they pass away. It is a rewarding career.”

For those unsure about taking the first step into study, her message is simple: you’re not alone. “TAFE teachers are always available to assist and there are many support services available to students. Teaching resources are informative and varied to make sure we can identify the best way to support a student’s learning.”

She credits her own professional drive to a mentor — her first Director of Nursing. “He instilled in all of us the need to advocate for aged care and provide quality care to residents and their families. He was a strong believer in education,” she says. “I am grateful that he influenced me in continuous studying and learning.”

So why study at Wodonga TAFE? For this teacher, the answer is clear. “Our course offers best practice in aged care. We offer that important balance of theory and practical application. Students are supported throughout every step of the way. They will often have real job outcomes at the completion of the course, and they know they can make a valuable contribution to the aged care sector.”

Individual Support teachers Brigitte and Kathryn in the specialty Aged Care Lab at the McKoy Street campus.

A Growing Industry with Expanding Opportunities

The demand for skilled professionals in the Health and Care sectors is on the rise. According to the Victorian Government's Employment Projections Data for 2024 to 2034, the Health Care and Social Assistance industry is expected to experience significant growth over the next decade. This expansion reflects the increasing need for qualified individuals in aged care and related fields, highlighting the promising career prospects for those entering the industry.

Embarking on a career in aged care not only offers personal fulfillment but also aligns with a sector poised for substantial growth. With comprehensive training and support from institutions like Wodonga TAFE, students are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of this essential industry.

Moreover, the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) remains on the Free TAFE list for eligible students in 2025, making it an accessible pathway into the aged care or disability support sector.

For those considering a meaningful career change, now is an opportune time to explore the possibilities within aged care. With the combination of industry growth and educational support, stepping into this field has never been more attainable.