Future doctor gets skills start at school 

17-year-old Bella Becker is getting a hands-on head start on her healthcare career.

The Mueller College Year 12 student has her sights set on becoming a doctor specialising in anaesthetics or paediatric care, but she’s begun her health journey as a school-based trainee.

Bella is completing a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, while hosted by Metro North Health at Cooinda House – a residential aged care facility in Kippa-Ring.

The traineeship sees Bella working closely alongside health professionals, undertaking tasks such as feeding, showering, and safely moving residents using wheelchairs and walkers.

“I believe that having a foundation in patient care, manual handling and effective communication are crucial skills for a good doctor to have,” Bella said.

“Working in aged care has allowed me to gain insight into the physical and emotional challenges patients face and learn the importance of providing compassionate, dignified care.”

Despite facing significant family and personal challenges during her first year of training, Bella remained committed to balancing the traineeship with her schoolwork.

In 2025, her resilience was recognised at the Queensland Training Awards – named a finalist in the School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year category at the Metro Regional Final.

“One of the most valuable aspects of my training has been the opportunity to share my experience with others, including my friends, classmates and younger students who may be considering a vocational pathway,” Bella said.

“Many people assume that university is the only way to enter the healthcare field, but since the commencement of my traineeship, I have emphasised how it has allowed me to build real-world skills and confidence while still in school.”

After completing school and her traineeship, Bella plans to continue working in a hospital as an Assistant in Nursing – beginning higher education with a strong skills foundation.

Learn more about training options.

Find out about The Right Skills Strategy.