Clinical Extern Program

At SickKids, Clinical Externs (Externs) are hired to work as unregulated care providers (UCPs). Externs support nursing care activities by extending the support needed to provide safe, effective, timely and efficient care.

Externs work with Registered Nurses through delegation, assignment, and teaching. Some of them will also work with respiratory therapists in the ICU and NICU units.

To be eligible for a SickKids Extern position, you must be enrolled in a program in one of the following health disciplines:

Registered nursing
Registered respiratory therapy
Occupational therapy
Physiotherapy

Becoming a SickKids Extern is a great transitional opportunity to develop clinical expertise, specialty knowledge and self-confidence.

Applications for positions open in early 2024. Check back soon for updates!

Clinical Externs Application Process FAQs

A: Check out the SickKids careers portal for job postings.

Only the application submitted on the Careers and Volunteering page within the deadline will be considered for the position. Applications submitted to clinical.externs@sickkids.ca will not be considered.

A: As long you complete the semester before either start date May or July and are entering into your final year in the fall.

A: Please address the cover letter to "Dear Hiring Manager".

A: Please have the referee complete the form and submit through email before the application deadline. Click here to download the form.

A: A current or most recent nursing clinical instructor or preceptor who can comment on your clinical skills.

A: It is preferred that the referee send the reference letter to clinical.externs@sickkids.ca with the applicant's FULL NAME in the subject line.

A: Previous paediatric experience is an asset not a requirement. A recent letter of recommendation from a clinical instructor who can comment on how your skills can be transferred to a paediatric setting can be submitted.

Clinical Externs provide direct care to patients and families under mentorship and supervision of Registered Nurses. Externs are employed by the clinical area and receive training on scope of practice as unregulated health care providers. They contribute to the patient plan of care, perform clinical skills within their scope, building on knowledge and expertise to prepare for the role of becoming a Registered Nurse.