Rietvlei Hospital Nursing School, situated within the Rietvlei District Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is dedicated to cultivating proficient nursing professionals equipped to address the region’s diverse healthcare needs. Operating under the KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing (KZNCN), the institution offers accredited programmes combining rigorous academic instruction and practical clinical experience.
Programmes Offered
The primary programme available at Rietvlei Hospital Nursing School is the Diploma in Nursing (R171). This comprehensive three-year, full-time course is designed to develop generalist nurses proficient in various healthcare settings. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical training, adhering to a block system that alternates between classroom instruction and work-integrated learning.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must meet specific academic criteria to be considered for admission:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): A minimum score of 25 points, calculated using a standardised approved point system (APS). The assessment includes six subjects, with the following requirements:
- English Home Language (EHL) or First Additional Language (FAL): Level 4
- Another Language (Home Language or FAL): Level 3
- Mathematics: Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy: Level 5
- Life Sciences or Physical Sciences: Level 4
- Life Orientation: Level 4 (Note: Life Orientation is not scored)
For applicants who completed their matriculation before 2008, the following applies:
- Senior Certificate:
- English: Minimum “E” on Higher Grade or “D” on Standard Grade
- Biology: Minimum “E” on Higher Grade or “D” on Standard Grade
- Mathematics: Minimum “E” on Higher Grade or “D” on Standard Grade
- Any other subjects: Minimum “E” on Higher Grade or “D” on Standard Grade
Additionally, applicants must be South African citizens residing in the KwaZulu-Natal province.
Application Process
The application process is initiated annually through advertisements published in local newspapers, hospitals, clinics, and on the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health website. Prospective students are required to follow the instructions detailed in these advertisements, which specify the necessary information and documentation to be submitted. Notably, at this stage, there is no need to complete application forms (such as the Z83 form), and hand-delivered applications are not accepted. All applications must be submitted online as per the guidelines provided in the advertisement.
Selection Process
Due to the high volume of applications, only successful candidates will be contacted. Shortlisted applicants will undergo a compulsory knowledge assessment, medical surveillance—including a medical examination—and verification of all documentation. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health offers financial assistance to successful candidates in the form of a bursary. Applicants who have previously benefited from the Department’s financial assistance for training are not eligible for entry into the programme.
Key Dates and Application Deadlines
The advertisement for nurse training posts is typically published once a year, around mid-year. Specific dates, including application deadlines, are provided in the advertisement. Prospective applicants are advised to regularly check the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health website and local newspapers for the most current information.
Additional Information
Upon completion of the training, students will be registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as General Nurses, in line with the Nursing Act (Act No. 33 of 2005). Successful candidates are expected to attend as full-time students, participate in lectures, and engage in work-integrated learning (WIL) in shifts, which may include public holidays, weekends, and nights, within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health hospitals and clinics as part of the programme requirements.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, prospective students can contact Rietvlei Hospital:
- Telephone: +27 (0) 39 260 5000
- Fax: +27 (0) 39 260 0006
- Email: nonhlanhla.keswa@kznhealth.gov.za
- Postal Address: Private Bag X501, Stafford’s Post, Via Port Shepstone, 4686
- Physical Address: Rietvlei Location (Emhlangeni)
- GPS Coordinates: 29.82481 | -30.48783
Embarking on a nursing career through Rietvlei Hospital Nursing School offers a robust educational foundation, practical experience, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in healthcare within the KwaZulu-Natal province.