About the event
This session will provide an overview of what you can expect as a student, including course structure, study requirements, and the support services available to you throughout your learning journey. It is also a great opportunity to gain practical tips for managing your studies and to ask any questions you may have before getting started. Whether you are still considering your options or preparing to begin your course, we encourage you to attend and make the most of this opportunity to feel confident and prepared.
About the speakers
Adjunct Professor Zachary Byfield. RN, BN, MN, MPhil, MBA, MACN, FHEA, DPS
Zach (he/they) is a registered nurse with a passion for quality nursing education. Zach’s current role at ACN is as the National Director of Nursing Education and Adjunct Professor of Nursing, overseeing the Education Division and being the Responsible Executive for ACNs work with the National Nursing Archives of Australia, and Collegian: The Australian Journal of Nursing Practice, Scholarship and Research.
In addition to a strong interest in evidence-based practice and teaching, Zach is an editor/contributor for nursing texts in both higher education and vocational education and sits on the board of several health-related organisations as well as holding a ministerial appointment as the Deputy President of Nursing and Midwifery Council of NSW.
Ashley Page. RN, MACN, MHLM, DipProfPract, CertIVTAE
Ashley is the Director of Academic Studies at ACN. Since becoming a Nurse Educator in 2012, Ashley has been passionate about supporting nurses at every stage of their careers. She prioritises delivering high-quality education and focuses on helping students translate theory into practical, clinically relevant knowledge and skills.
Sheetal Kumar. RN, BScN, MN (Clinical Teaching), Diploma in Practice Management, Diploma in Nursing, Justice of Peace - NSW
Sheetal is the coordinator for our Graduate Certificate course in Paediatric Nursing Studies, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to the role. Her nursing journey began in 2011 in Fiji, where she graduated and practiced as a general and obstetric nurse before transitioning to Australia. Over the years, Sheetal has cultivated a diverse background in practice and surgical nursing and dedicated six years as a critical care nurse in the emergency department, caring for both adult and paediatric patients. This is where her passion for paediatric care truly flourished.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Sheetal has established a strong foundation in nursing education, earning her Master’s degree in Nursing (Clinical Teaching). Her teaching journey includes roles as a sessional academic, online facilitator, and tutor/marker across various tertiary institutions, demonstrating her commitment to shaping the next generation of paediatric nurses. Her enthusiasm for advancing her teaching practice and sharing her knowledge with others is both inspiring and impactful.
Sheetal’s blend of clinical and educational experience ensures that students in the Graduate Certificate course receive exceptional guidance rooted in both theory and practice.
Elizabeth Moran. RN, MEd, Cert IV TAE, MACN
Liz is a nurse educator at the Australian College of Nursing, where she coordinates the Graduate Certificate in Stomal Therapy Nursing and the Graduate Certificate in Aged Care. Liz has over 40 years of clinical experience across public and private health services, primarily in critical care areas. Liz also holds a Master of Education.
In her educator role, Liz brings together her passion for nursing and teaching, with a strong focus on evidence-based practice, reflective practice, and the delivery of outstanding learning experiences. She believes education is fundamental to developing and advancing nursing leadership.
Melissa O'Loughlin. RN, MACN, BN, MAdvN(Edu), GradDipNurScBu(Burns Nursing), GradCertDiabEdM, Cert IV TAE.
Melissa has over 20 years of nursing experience, predominantly in burns nursing, operating theatres, and intensive care. She holds a Masters in Advanced Nursing Education, and has completed numerous higher education qualifications including a Graduate Diploma in Nursing Science (Burns Nursing), Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education & Management, and has a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Prior to joining the Australian College of Nursing, Melissa commenced her nursing education journey teaching undergraduate nursing students. She is passionate about creating supportive and engaging learning environments and strongly believes that ongoing nursing education is fundamental to high-quality patient care.
Jane Simmonds, Nurse Educator – Higher Education
BN, GradDipClinPrac (Paediatrics), MSc (Midwifery), MEd (Educational Leadership), RNRM, MACN
Jane is an accomplished healthcare leader with extensive experience spanning clinical practice, higher education, leadership, and project management. Her career encompasses senior roles in nursing and midwifery, academic appointments delivering undergraduate and postgraduate nursing education, and leadership positions responsible for operational management, workforce development, and education across NSW Health.
Jane has a proven track record of leading strategic initiatives that strengthen workforce capability, enhance organisational performance, and support the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based healthcare. She is committed to fostering positive workplace cultures, developing high-performing teams, and advancing lifelong learning through innovative education and leadership practices.
She brings extensive expertise in curriculum design, leadership development, project management, and mentoring health professionals. Jane commenced working with ACN this year and is coordinating the Graduate Certificate in Critical Care.