Stepping into Primary Healthcare: Students in Over Summer Programme

The Students in Over Summer (SIOS) programme is more than just an internship, it's a journey of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. 

Each year, Pegasus Health welcomes a group of interns through the SIOS Programme, providing aspiring health professionals with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of primary healthcare. 

The 2024 intake featured five students from social work, nursing, and health science, who were tasked with collaboratively evaluating the SIOS programme to enhance it for future participants. 

A highlight of their time was shadowing patient and provider service teams at Pegasus and observing health professionals in primary care. Visits to general practices across St Martins, Papanui, Kaiapoi, and Riccarton offered firsthand insights into the daily roles of GPs, nurses, and other primary care professionals. 

“We had no idea how many services Pegasus offers—it was eye-opening," second-year Health Science student at UC, Rai, said. 

The interns also gained essential skills through workshops held by Pegasus staff on public speaking, motivational conversations, and disability and accessibility in healthcare. 

Students were also able to put their skills into practice at the AFFIRM24 event in Aranui.  

“It was amazing. I got to practice health checks like blood pressure and blood sugar while working as part of a team. I’ll definitely be volunteering every year,” second-year Nursing student at ARA, Nikki, said. 

For many, the programme shifted their perspectives on healthcare careers.  

“Our studies are mainly based on secondary care, but I now see how broad and impactful primary care is and has inspired me to pursue this area”, Master of Nursing Science student at University of Otago, Naz, said. 

As the programme concluded, the students presented their evaluation findings to a group, laying the groundwork for future interns to build upon. 

Rai offered advice for future participants. “Just do it—take it all in, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. That’s what this opportunity is for,” she said.