Great Plains College announces new Practical Nursing program in Kindersley
By Joan Janzen
Great Plains College had an exciting announcement on Friday morning, April 5th. The college has added the Practical Nursing program to its Kindersley Campus. The full-time diploma program is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2025, and applications will open this fall with fourteen spots available.
Brad Mahon, President and CEO, introduced Keleah Ostrander, Vice President of Programs and Students, who gave an overview of the program. She noted that the program has been in the works for the past three years, and they’re excited to grow their healthcare program offerings and help train more students for a rewarding and in-demand career.
Anika Becker - Clinical Services Manager, Keleah Ostrander - Vice-President of Programs and Students, Everett Hindley - Ministry of Health, Ken Francis - Kindersley MLA, Mayor Rod Perkins, and Brad Mahon - President and CEO, were all present for the announcement of the new Practical Nursing program at Great Plains College in Kindersley. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Keleah Ostrander, Vice-President of Programs and Students, gave an overview of the new Practical Nursing program which will be offered at Great Plains College in Kindersley. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
The two-year program is delivered through a combination of hands-on classroom learning and practicums, where students will receive clinical experience in a variety of settings, from pharmacology and acute care to obstetrics and long-term care. Clinical experiences will take place in Kindersley and throughout the region.
Upon graduation, students will be prepared to write the exam to become a incensed practical nurse in Saskatchewan. Construction of a new healthcare lab will take place throughout the fall of 2024 and the winter months of 2025 in preparation for the start-up of the program.
Everett Hindley presented greetings on behalf of the Ministry of Health. He expressed his gratitude for all the college does and explained the government’s commitment in partnering with the program. “Nowhere is there a better opportunity than in rural Saskatchewan, and investing in this program helps so much.”
Kindersley MLA Ken Francis presented greetings on behalf of the Kindersley Constituency and the Minister of Advanced Education. “It is really good news for a small community,” he said, thanking the college for its leadership and commitment. There are so many opportunities for nurses, especially in rural communities in Saskatchewan.”
Mayor Rod Perkins also extended greetings on behalf of the Town of Kindersley. “This program will add to the town of Kindersley. It’s great for our community, for our citizens, and our healthcare community.”
Greetings on behalf of the Sask. Health Authority was presented by Clinic Services Manager Anika Becker. “The fall of 2025 cannot come soon enough,” she said. “We recognize the importance of practical nurses. They enhance the efficiency of our healthcare system.”
Brad Mahon concluded the announcements by expressing how grateful the college is to contribute to our communities' sustainability.
Anyone interested in being notified when applications open for the Kindersley Practical Nursing program can email jennifers@greatplainscollege.ca.