Enrolled Nursing Cadetship
Applications are now open for 2026 intake
What the program involves
- Paid Work: Up to 18 months of paid employment (2 days per week) as an Assistant in Nursing.
- Study: Up to 21 months of study in the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) at a TAFE SA regional campus.
- Commitment: 2 days of work + 25 hours of study per week, which equals a full-time workload.
- Learning Style: Combination of online theory, practical learning on campus, clinical placements in hospitals, and online support.
Click here to hear from one of our previous EN Cadets about the program.
Locations
Cadetships available across regional South Australian hospitals negotiated with successful applicants.
- TAFE SA regional campuses include:
-
- Barossa Valley (Nuriootpa)
- Mount Barker
- Mount Gambier
- Port Pirie
- Whyalla
- Port Lincoln (from 2026)
Who can apply
You can apply if you:
- Have applied for and been offered a place in the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) at a TAFE SA regional campus; OR
- Are already enrolled in the Diploma at a regional campus.
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants are strongly encouraged to apply through the Aboriginal EN Cadetship rolling recruitment process.
Eligibility
You must:
- Meet SA Health requirements (criminal history clearance, immunisation compliance).
- Meet TAFE SA requirements (English language standards, pass the CSPA test for literacy/numeracy).
- Be able to maintain 25 hours study per week, keep up with study plans, and complete assessments (theory, practical, simulations, placements).
How to Apply
- Apply through SATAC for the Diploma of Nursing at a regional TAFE SA campus.
- Pass the CSPA test and meet English standards.
- Receive your SATAC offer and enrol.
- Apply for the Cadetship via the SA Health Careers website with a resume, cover letter, referees, and proof of enrolment.
Click here to apply for the 2026 Enrolled Nursing Cadetship
Costs
- Tuition fees: Paid by the student (semester-by-semester). VET Student Loans may be available.
- Other costs: Textbooks (recommended list provided), travel, and accommodation.
- Check if you qualify for Fee Free TAFE places.
Support
- Workplace: SA Health provides supervision and support in your hospital role.
- Study: TAFE SA provides a contact lecturer and access to teaching staff across campuses.
What You Gain
- Graduate as a fully qualified Enrolled Nurse (EN).
- Hands-on clinical experience in a hospital setting.
- A pathway to multiple career opportunities in health.
More Information
You can find more details in the EN Cadetship Program fact sheet (PDF 1MB). For further enquiries, please contact:
Sharon Lewis — Workforce Strategist, Rural Support Service
Phone: 0448 872 555 | Email: health.rssworkforcestrategist@sa.gov.au
Jacqui Merkel — Lecturer, Enrolled Nursing TAFE SA
Phone: 08 8633 9472 | Email: jacqueline.merkel@tafesa.edu.au