EVERY year students from the University of Sydney choose to study in Orange or Dubbo for the final years of their degree to gain exposure to rural communities.
The University of Sydney deputy head of school Dr Gabriel Shannon, Orange, recognised the benefits of teaching in a rural school.
He said the “hands on approach” and “one-on-one nature” of teaching lead to higher academic results within students.
In 2015, 28 per cent of students sent through the program at Orange or Dubbo returned to study in rural areas following completion of their degree.
Enticing students to want to work outside of metropolitan areas, the eight- to 10-year degree is now under the microscope and a suite of measures have been launched to encourage more permanent positions.
School of Rural Health student Jessica Yabsley, Orange, encourages medical students to explore rural placements and options.
- BRIDIE EDWARDS
