The transition from student to professional can be challenging. In Australia, a formal graduate year is common in nursing, however, structured programs to support the student to professional transition are uncommon in allied health.  Northern Health identified a need in this area and in response, developed an innovative program designed to address this gap. 

Graduate employees of allied health disciplines participate in eight, 2-hour sessions during their first year of professional practice. The first seven sessions are held once every three weeks from early March to focus on the early months for graduate uptake of positions within the health service.  A follow-up (8th) session is held in late November – when most graduates are approaching 12 months with the service.  These facilitated sessions foster reflective practice, peer support, the development of key professional characteristics and provide an interdisciplinary forum for sharing experiences and learning.