Written by Lewis Donaldson
For Charles Sturt University graduate Peita Lee Bate, working in a caring role was non-negotiable when it came to advancing her career.
“Caring roles are all I have ever worked in and becoming a Registered Nurse has always been a goal of mine,” she said.
From beginning an aged care traineeship in 2002 to graduating with a Bachelor of Nursing in 2025, Peita’s journey shows there’s no single pathway into higher education or healthcare. Early study through TAFE NSW laid the groundwork for Peita’s successful studies at Charles Sturt, bolstered by a two-decade career in healthcare.
“I started my traineeship in aged care back in 2002 in Lindfield and Parramatta, NSW and gained my Certificate III in 2003,” she says.
Peita later completed a Diploma of Nursing at Taree TAFE in 2015 before deciding to take the next step and enrol in a Bachelor of Nursing in 2022.
Originally from Umina Beach and now living in Tuncurry, Peita completed her Nursing studies online through Charles Sturt University while balancing full-time shift work and everyday life commitments. However, transitioning from TAFE study to university-style learning came with challenges.
“I found the transition from TAFE to university challenging at first because university required more independent learning, critical thinking, and academic writing,” Peita said.
“However, the practical skills and experience I gained through TAFE gave me a strong foundation and helped me adjust over time.”
Peita says her decision to continue studying was driven by a desire to expand her knowledge and improve the care she could provide to patients.
“Working in healthcare showed me how important ongoing learning is, especially in areas like aged care, dementia support, and complex patient needs,” she said.
For regional students like Peita, support services played a major role in making university education achievable.
“The Taree University Campus was the main reason I was able to enter university as my placement was kept local, which was extremely helpful,” she said.
“Without that option, I don’t believe I would have been able to complete my degree.”
Peita says university resources made study more manageable while living regionally.
“The availability of a study space, free printing, and nursing support officers made it much easier to access resources, sit exams, and study,” she said.
Balancing full-time work with part-time study over four years required dedication and careful planning.
“I chipped away at my degree part time over four years whilst working shift work full-time,” Peita said.
“I made this work through time management, planning and dedication.”
Now working full-time as a Registered Nurse at an Aboriginal Controlled Medical Corporation, Peita has found a passion for supporting older people in her local community.
“I work in an aged care position and provide clinical care to older people within the local community,” she said.
“I enjoy delivering care that assists older people [to] stay at home longer and maintain their independence.”
Reflecting on her experience studying through Charles Sturt University, Peita says the flexibility and support she received helped her succeed.
“I would highly recommend Charles Sturt as I found it organised and felt supported throughout my studies,” she said.
“I feel confident that I have gained the appropriate skills and knowledge to do my job well.”
Charlie blog is a SSAF initiative.
