Social Paediatrics in Saskatoon in Association with St. Mary's

Challenges:
1) Internet connectivity for resource development.
2) Development of staff knowledge in schools regarding the role of nursing students.
The program has been viewed as yet another “win-win” arrangement for schools
and nursing students. The school children, teachers, staff and community benefit from the
development of health education resources delivered by the nursing students and their
collaboration in classroom activities.
The benefits for the nursing students have been their ability to develop:
1) An understanding of the health challenges of the school population and community.
2) An appreciation of the work of the interdisciplinary team in providing services to the
children at the school.
3) A feeling of belonging on behalf of the nursing students as a result of the school’s
welcoming atmosphere.
One of the most tangible outcomes of this program is the hiring of previous
practicum students as permanent employees in the school system. St. Mary’s was lucky
enough to have one such student return after her practicum term with Public Health as a
Public Health Nurse. The program has also allowed the nursing students to be involved
with the “Archaeology in the City”. A program through the Department of Archaeology
at the University of Saskatchewan, which provides students with an appreciation for the
historical context of the Pleasant Hill Community.
This practicum placement was developed from an interest in contributing to the
services at St. Mary’s Community School through the education of nursing students in
the College of Nursing. The College of Nursing has provided practicum placements for
nursing students in many schools in Saskatoon with both school boards. This particular
placement was developed truly through a community development model of relationship
building and accessing resources. The faculty members from the College of Nursing and
the GSCS members were initially linked through other community groups and committee
work. Brain storming and collaboration created an opportunity to explore the potential for
a nursing student practicum at schools.
© Greater Saskatoon Catholic School Division 2011 25