Cathryn, Trainee at Gowrie Docklands Kindergarten
Cathryn is currently undertaking her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care traineeship at Gowrie Docklands Kindergarten. Passionate about working with children, Cathryn shares her experience as a trainee with Gowrie and why undertaking her studies as a trainee was the right choice for her.
Why did you choose to do an Early Childhood Traineeship?
I’ve always marvelled at the way children see and experience the world with such wonder. It’s a beautiful thing watching a child discover and interact with the world around them.
After being stuck behind a computer working from home during the pandemic I was eager to make a change and move into something more interactive. Many of my previous jobs had some sort of crossover with education or involved working with children. After reflecting on what it was about these jobs that I enjoyed so much I realised it was building connections with, and supporting children in their early years.
What do you enjoy about working in ECEC?
Working with children during such integral developmental years and being able to have a genuine and meaningful impact on their lives is very special. It is a joy and a privilege to support each child on their individual learning journey and create a space for them in which they feel safe to explore their identity.
I love that every day is different. Although this can sometimes be daunting, it ensures there is always variety which is refreshing and exciting. Having come from a music theatre background, I also appreciate that I am able to apply my creative skills within the early childhood setting and share my passion for music and performance with the children.
What do you like about undertaking your studies as a traineeship?
Having the ability to take the theory I’m learning in class and put it into practice in real time has been really great as it allows for a more immersive and focused learning environment. Being able to plug into my trainee peer group every Thursday for Cert III class has also been wonderful as it has given everyone the opportunity to share experiences, brainstorm and problem solve things we are finding challenging in our work.
How has Gowrie supported you in your learning?
I am very grateful to have a wonderful teacher/facilitator in Carolina; she has been such a great support to me and the other trainees in my class, creating a safe and welcoming learning environment where everyone feels supported. I am also lucky to work with a fantastic team of educators at Gowrie Docklands Kindergarten, all of whom have been so kind and supportive while I have been learning on the job.
What has been your favourite thing about the traineeship?
The connections I’ve built through my engagement as both a student and an educator in the Gowrie community. I have had the opportunity to collaborate with such a broad range of people (big and small) and it has been a joy to learn about, and celebrate, the different communities that make up the wider Gowrie community.
What would you say to people considering a career in EC?
It’s challenging but rewarding work. Witnessing each child’s growth and development, whether you work with them for one day or for years is incredibly fulfilling. If you are looking for a role with purpose where you can truly make a difference, a career in early childhood is definitely worth considering. Not only is it very meaningful but there are so many different opportunities that exist within the sector (e.g. after-school care, inclusion support, special education, private nanny).
Our next intake for the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care starts on Wednesday 17 April 2024.
If you have been considering taking on a new trainee or would like to learn more about the benefits of offering traineeships at your service, please get in touch. We have a number of candidates who are ready and excited to start their career as an educator. For more information on Gowrie’s traineeship program supported by the Department of Education, download the flyer or contact Stephanie Soriano, Student Engagement Coordinator (stephanies@gowrievictoria.org.au or Ph: 0466 852 121).
