Trainee Educator, Amelia was 15 years old and in year 10 at St John XXIII Catholic College when her schools Work Placement Program changed her life.

‘I didn’t know what I wanted to do or what I was passionate about. But by doing a Work Placement at Ambrose Early Learning, I soon discovered that I love working with children.’

Amelia’s Work Placement was a 20-week program – during this time she worked one day each week at Ambrose Early Learning and attended school for the other four days. The Work Placement gave Amelia a taste of what it was like to work in early learning.

‘I loved it. I was able to observe practices and become involved in activities. It was great to be part of a team where I felt supported.’

Following her positive Work Placement, Amelia was keen to pursue a career in early childhood and enrolled at CathWest Innovation College for Year 11 and 12.

‘At CathWest I was able to tailor my studies to my chosen career.’

Amelia became a School-Based Trainee and spent three days each week studying HSC subjects, one day at TAFE studying Certificate III in Early Childhood and one day working at Ambrose Early Learning. In addition, the last two weeks of each term was dedicated to practical experience and full-time work at the Ambrose Early Learning Centre.

‘I was keen to start my career, so the School-Based Traineeship was a great way of getting experience, a formal qualification plus I was earning an income when working at Ambrose. It wasn’t easy – but I am so glad I did it.’

By the time Amelia finished her School-Based Traineeship in 2021 – she had been awarded her HSC, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education, Certificate II in Business Studies, and had gained lots of work experience.