Preceptors

A Preceptor is a credentialled nurse Pap test provider who teaches, inspires and serves as a role model to support the growth and development of other nurses training to become Pap test providers.

Preceptors provide students with an orientation to the workplace in a learning / teaching environment, enabling students to bridge the gap between theory and practice after completing a Pap test training course.

All preceptors in Victoria are registered members of the Victorian Preceptor Program (VPP). The VPP is a state-wide program developed by PapScreen Victoria, the University of Melbourne (Department of General Practice), Melbourne University, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre and Family Planning Victoria.

The VPP supports the work of the preceptor, encourages new preceptors in Victoria and provides additional support for preceptors through professional development opportunities.

Nurses training to become Pap test providers - find your nearest preceptor here.

Benefits of being a Preceptor

Being a Preceptor provides an opportunity to:

Share clinical experience and showcase the services that nurses provide to women.
Increase access to professional development opportunities.
Develop relationships with colleagues and reduce isolation for sole practitioners.

Become a Preceptor

To become a preceptor, a self-assessment based on the Department of Health's Victorian Preceptor Program Standards for Cervical Screening Clinical Preceptors [pdf 201KB] is required. The standards require you to be either:

1. A registered Division 1 Nurse who:

a) Has registered as a preceptor with the Victorian Preceptor Program

b) Is a Victorian credentialled nurse Pap test provider

c) Has undertaken a minimum of 100 hours clinical experience in cervical screening

d) Complies with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia guidelines for continuing professional development

e) Demonstrates the support of their employer by their signing the VPP Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This MOU will be sent on receipt of your registration form.

Or to be a:

2. Registered Medical Practitioner with the following requirements (a student's ability to use a medical practitioner is only by agreement with their Course Coordinator):

a) Has registered as a preceptor with the Victorian Preceptor Program

b) Has undertaken a minimum of 100 hours experience in cervical screening.

To become a preceptor and join the VPP complete this registration form.

Preceptor resource manual

Preceptors may find the following resources useful:

Download the following documents to update your resource manual contents: