Leading by example: How Stacey Jackson supports the next generation in Allied Health
Monday, 24 November 2025 / Albury Wodonga Health
Leading by example: How Stacey Jackson supports the next generation in Allied Health
After nearly 18 years with Albury Wodonga Health, Allied Health Assistant Stacey Jackson’s passion for supporting students hasn’t faded. In fact, it’s grown stronger than ever.
As a long-time Allied Health Assistant and now Student Placement Coordinator, she’s helped shape the careers of countless young professionals who’ve gone on to work across AWH and beyond.
That’s why she was recently named one of AWH’s Allied Health Educators of the Year, celebrated for her exceptional leadership, collaboration, and dedication to allied health education.
A passion for learning and teaching
Stacey’s career at AWH has spanned multiple departments, from inpatient wards to community rehabilitation and the Public Health Unit during COVID.
Today, she works in the surgical wards at Albury Hospital, coordinating Allied Health Assistant student placements and mentoring new learners through their first real-world experiences.
And that’s not all. Alongside her AWH role, Stacey has also spent around 14 years teaching at Wodonga TAFE, where she continues to inspire students just starting out in the Allied Health Assistant course.
“It’s great because I often already know who’s who when they come on placement,” she says. “I just really want them to have a great start - that first placement can really shape their future.”
AWH’s Allied Health Education Lead, Megan Tankard, says Stacey was recognised for her outstanding contribution to Allied Health education and her ability to bring teams together.
“Stacey shows outstanding leadership in uniting the AHA team in Albury and works closely with her Wodonga colleagues to deliver coordinated, high-quality patient care,” says Megan.
“Her commitment extends beyond student supervision. As an AHA teacher at TAFE, Stacey inspires future allied health professionals with her expertise and enthusiasm. Her dedication and drive truly exemplify excellence in allied health education.”
Building confidence and connection
Each year, Stacey helps guide up to four AHA students through placements at Albury Hospital. She says it’s a role that’s as much about people and wellbeing as it is about skills and coursework.
“A big part of supervising students is checking in on their wellbeing,” she explains. “Hospital environments can be confronting. For some it’s their first time seeing patients in that setting. So I make sure they feel supported and prepared.”
That care and connection clearly pay off. Some of Stacey’s former placement students have gone on to work at AWH as allied health assistants or continued their studies in physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
“It’s rewarding seeing them come back,” she says. “You know how hard they’ve worked and how much they’ve grown in confidence.”
Shaping the future of Allied Health
Beyond her day-to-day work, Stacey’s passion has flowed into a range of education and career initiatives. She’s been part of the organising committee for major events like the AWH Allied Health Conference, La Trobe Health Careers Day, and Year 10 Work Experience Days, helping young people explore the world of health careers.
“You’ve got to pitch it differently for each group,” she says. “Year 10s need something interactive and fun, so we get them moving and doing activities. By the time you’re talking to Year 12s, they’re already thinking about their university choices, so the conversations shift.”
The qualities of a great AHA
Asked what makes a great allied health assistant, Stacey doesn’t hesitate: time management and people skills.
“You’ve got to be adaptable and really organised – every day is different and sometimes your priorities can change in an instant,” she says. “But above all, you need patience and to be a people person. You’re often seeing people at their most vulnerable, and it’s about being calm, kind and genuine.”
As for what’s next, Stacey says she’s happy continuing to grow and learn through her educational work and committee involvement.
“I’ve learnt so much this year. It’s been amazing to be part of something bigger, helping make those events and opportunities happen for others. I’m just really proud to be part of it all.”