On Wednesday, the 21st of August, the VCE Health and Human Development students went on an excursion to the Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital in Sunshine. During our visit, we were given a tour of the maternity ward by the hospitals Midwifery Unit Manager. During our visit, various nurses, unit managers, social workers and midwives who work in the hospital explained their roles and what a typical day looks like for them.

We learned that new parents receive a variety of care and support services, before during and after pregnancy to achieve the best outcomes for families. Joan Kirner is a state-of-the-art facility providing a huge variety of health and wellbeing services to women and children in Melbourne’s West. The nurses showed us a birthing suite, highlighting the supplies and equipment used during childbirth. The room featured a large bath, dim lighting, and fairy lights to create a relaxing and comforting atmosphere for the mother, helping her to feel more at ease during labour.

Many of us gained insight into potential health career pathways and solidified our knowledge of the demands of parenthood as a period of transition.

Overall, it was a valuable experience and a great day.

Chloe B. and Amelia M.