Working with children has always been Lara’s life calling – a VET pathway helped her get there!
The Australian Government is working closely with states and territories to ensure the VET system works for students like Lara Wilson. Governments are collaborating to create more opportunities to skill, reskill and upskill, building pathways for lifelong learning.
Pursuing a passion
Lara knew she wanted to work with children since she was seven years old and at the end of Year 10 was delighted when a high school teacher sent her a link about becoming an Education Support Officer at a hospital school.
“I quickly signed up to study a Certificate III in School Based Education Support at the hospital school, where I trained for 2 years to become a school support officer,” Lara said.
Lara learnt quickly to manage her time wisely as she needed to complete her Year 11 and 12 schoolwork online, while also studying the Certificate III in School Based Education Support.
A highlight of Lara’s training was spending time supporting and socialising with patients between the ages of 4 and 12 years old, their siblings and children of patients.
Rewarding career
Lara now works as a student support officer for a hospital where she provides education support to children who are hospitalised or undergoing rehabilitation, ensuring they can continue their learning while receiving medical care.
Lara finds it fulfilling helping teach students at the hospital who are often in wheelchairs, casts and bandages.
“It’s rewarding seeing how excited students become for a maths lesson! It gives them a break and distraction from thinking about their illness,” Lara said.
In a typical day, Lara will help teach her students:
- English – creating interesting reading, writing and story structures
- Maths – worksheets and new topics
- Art – design and technology
- Science – plants and the effects of light.
“It’s special letting the children guide the lessons and it’s a humbling experience being able to make such a positive difference in so many children’s lives.”
Being aware
In Lara’s role it is important for her to be aware of students’ physical needs, for example:
- wheelchair access
- motor control
- sensory needs and learning difficulties
- an understanding of each student’s history and any specific challenges.
VET pathway to university
Lara is currently completing a Bachelor of Primary Education (Honours) at university and has found having prior knowledge of many topics through her VET studies useful.
“When I finish my honours degree, I want to go straight into a classroom to teach children but would also love to teach at a hospital school again! It’s an incredibly supportive environment.”
The Australian Government’s investment in the VET system through the National Skills Agreement is supporting more Australians to achieve success and provide the skills Australia needs in high demand sectors now and for the future.