Amid a workforce shortage crisis where vacancies can take months to fill, what better endorsement of a centre’s service and its team than a parent deciding to go from “mum” to “educator-in-training”?
Jessica Collins, G8 centre Community Kids Mount Gambier’s new trainee said she was so inspired by the educators and teachers at the service that when the opportunity arose to join the team, it was a no-brainer.
“I had thought about making the switch from post office retail assistant to early learning educator, but I didn’t think juggling work, study and being a single mum was viable,” said Ms Collins.
“My son, Oliver, has been attending Community Kids Mount Gambier for 12 months and absolutely adores the team and has grown so much is a short period of time.
“When I saw the service was advertising for a trainee position which supports you to work while you study, it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”
Ms Collins is now two months into her journey and sees a fulfilling future in the early learning sector.
“I feel privileged that I get to support children to grow and explore their worlds every day,” she said.
“I am excited to be able to provide other children and families with the same incredible experiences that my son and I have enjoyed at the service.”
G8’s statistics show employees who complete a VET qualification through the sector-leading G8 Study Pathway Program stay, on average, twice as long as non-study pathways qualified team members.
Community Kids Mount Gambier Centre Manager, Ella McIntyre said the centre has thankfully retained a lot of their longstanding team despite the sector wide workforce issues, however she is focused making sure that continues.
“Particularly in the current workforce shortage environment it has never been more important to invest in developing our own educators so we can continue to enjoy the stability of a strong and talented team into the future,” she said.
“Jessica has been a great addition to our team, and we look forward to welcoming more trainees in the future.”
To learn more about how to apply for a traineeship or position with G8 Education, visit G8’s Careers Website.