BaptistCare boosts workforce training with Altura Learning partnership

BaptistCare is expanding its workforce education programme through the adoption of sector-specific learning technology as part of its strategy following a major national merger.

The merged organisation, now operating under the BaptistCare name, integrates Baptcare, Baptist Care SA, and BaptistCare NSW & ACT. The combined entity operates across five Australian states: New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia, delivering services in residential aged care, retirement living, home care, and community housing.

Training challenge

The recent consolidation has increased both the staff headcount and the diversity of services provided, leading to a renewed focus on consistent, effective training for all employees in disparate roles across a wide geographic area.

In response, BaptistCare has strengthened its collaboration with Altura Learning, a provider of video-based, industry-specific training resources tailored for aged care professionals.

Altura Learning supplies a broad catalogue of over 150 video-based courses featuring scenarios relevant to aged care environments. Topics span mandatory compliance, such as Medication Management and Manual Handling, as well as emerging care practices and dementia-specific modules. The training content is designed by industry experts, updated to reflect current regulations, and is aligned with Aged Care Quality Standards, including preparations for new legislation set to begin from 1 November.

Flexible delivery

One key aspect of the partnership is flexible training delivery. Online modules are accessible via desktop and mobile platforms, allowing staff to complete their learning at times that fit around operational demands and personal schedules. This is particularly beneficial to staff members of varying language backgrounds and diverse learning needs.

BaptistCare selected Altura Learning due to its understanding of the sector and its content's relevance to real-world aged care. The approach enables the organisation to provide consistent training experiences across all service streams and locations, regardless of local operational models.

"The team at Altura Learning consistently demonstrated authenticity, engagement, and practicality in their approach, fostering a collaborative environment that felt like a true partnership," said Kerry Martin, Head of Learning & Development at BaptistCare. "Their genuine enthusiasm for the project and dedication to achieving our shared goals was evident throughout the entire process."

In practice, BaptistCare adapts delivery approaches by geography. Staff in New South Wales, for example, are allocated paid time off for module completion, while in Western Australia, training is incorporated into existing shift structures. This flexibility is aimed at reducing disruption while supporting continuous improvement in care delivery.

Accessibility of platforms and simplicity of navigation are also prioritised. BaptistCare, working with Altura Learning, has ensured courses are intuitive to complete and compatible across devices. Martin noted the benefit of straightforward training, remarking, "When you're finished, you're finished," to underscore the importance of self-paced, easily accessible modules.

Continuous improvement

Continuous review and refinement of the training system are handled through a combination of staff feedback, support from Altura Learning, and internal review processes. This has led to enhancements such as improved mobile accessibility and streamlined processes for course completion. Transitioning historical staff learning records to Altura Learning's system has further increased efficiency.

"Our partnership with BaptistCare is built on trust and a shared commitment to delivering meaningful learning experiences that truly resonate with aged care professionals," said Paul Goudie, CEO of Altura Learning. "We pride ourselves on listening to sector needs and providing practical, engaging training that reflects the realities of care."

Altura Learning's platform now also plays a significant role in supporting change management during acquisitions and onboarding new staff as BaptistCare continues to grow. Regular content updates help ensure that training remains in line with the latest regulations and sector developments.

Feedback and issue resolution are tracked transparently through BaptistCare's internal ticketing system, which offers visibility and accountability throughout the training process. The system is designed to address any problems rapidly while ensuring that staff feel supported during periods of organisational change.

"Altura Learning has been instrumental in helping us navigate workforce training during a period of immense growth," a BaptistCare spokesperson said. "Their commitment to high-quality, industry-specific content ensures our staff remain engaged and well-equipped to provide the best possible care."

Both organisations emphasise that the goal of workforce training goes beyond compliance, aiming to build a capable, confident, and compassionate workforce aligned with the values of the aged care sector. Ongoing investment in staff development and learning technology is intended to support this objective as BaptistCare expands its reach and capacity.