An inspiring mother of three from Pennant Hills, North Parramatta, Jenny Gerber turned to TAFE NSW during lockdown to follow her dream career in early childhood and hasn’t looked back

“I was working in administration for an IT department at a school. I’ve had experience in both senior and junior schools and loved being around kindergartners and Year 1s. When we went into lockdown, I thought ‘what am I going to do?’ I couldn’t get a job, so I decided to sign up for the course.”

Jenny studied a Certificate III in Education Support at TAFE NSW during the lockdown.

“Having three children in high school made it challenging at times, particularly due to COVID, as I was juggling helping them with their schooling online.

“I have two girls with learning difficulties, so I was helping them in between my studying my own course. The teachers were fantastic and provided me with the support I needed to complete the course.”

Jenny said it was TAFE NSW’s flexible learning options that allowed her to study during the pandemic and balance being a mum.

“There was a combination of studying online and going into campus to meet up. The course was flexible, and I liked that.”

Jenny is now working at a preschool with the 2 to 3-year age group and is loving it.

“It’s challenging but the course has really set me up for success. I’ve been able to hit the ground running and thrive in a fast-paced environment.”

Head Teacher at TAFE NSW Bankstown, Leandra Negrini said “the training provided by TAFE NSW will prepare students to work in the early education with real-world knowledge and job experience they need to succeed.

“With people entering early education, employment slowing down, and the demand increasing, it’s inspiring to see people like Jenny follow their passion.”

Jenny hopes to continue learning and to progress to working in the next age bracket (3-4-year-olds). “I’d love to help them prepare for primary school, which is why I’m planning to study for a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.”

TAFE NSW understands the need to provide flexible study options to suit every learning need. You can find a method of study that suits your schedule and your ambitions. For more detail on TAFE NSW courses, face-to-face or online, visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Callum Darby-Linfitt, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7921 1823 callum.darbylinfitt@tafensw.edu.au