From stay-at-home mum to a career in compassion

Studying the Adult Tertiary Preparation (ATP) course, she’s determined to set an example for her children, proving that pursuing higher education and a rewarding career is never too late.

Having spent the past 17 years as a stay-at-home mum, she has shifted gears to focus on a new path, initially considering the police force.

"I want a career where I can help people, but after being diagnosed with ADHD, I realised the police force wasn’t an option,” Jessica said.

Undeterred, she set her sights on becoming a paramedic instead, a career where she could still make a difference in people’s lives, so she began studying with TAFE Queensland to enrol in university and study Paramedicine.

With studying at university requiring academic writing, note taking and referencing skills she did not have, Jessica is now completing a Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation (10765NAT) (ATP).

Despite being daunted when first starting ATP, TAFE Queensland has been a critical stepping stone for Jessica, helping her build foundational skills and confidence.

“I walked into biology, and it was like a whole new language. But thanks to the supportive teachers, I learned to master subjects I once found daunting,” she said.

"TAFE’s teachers are incredible. They’re patient, adapt their communication to different learning styles, and are always ready to help you understand - even if it means drawing things out on paper!"

Helping Jessica achieve her career dream is done through Fee-Free TAFE funding, part of the Queensland Government's Good People. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032. It aims to connect, educate, and attract the people needed to meet the state's workforce demand in existing and new industry sectors and support continued economic growth.

With approximately 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education and training places available in 2024, the program will support Queenslanders to skill up to meet the state's current and future workforce needs by enabling them to complete selected qualifications at no or low cost.

“With the money I’ve saved thanks to the Fee-Free Funding, I’ve bought a laptop, stationery, a bag, and I’ve paid for transport to South Bank from Caboolture. I'm very grateful for it, and it’s made studying easier.”

Jessica has also benefited from TAFE Queensland's AccessAbility support services, which helped her develop an individual support plan and provide practical assistance and advice to help her manage her ADHD while studying.

“Studying is difficult, but I didn't give up just because it was hard; I just found a way. Through communicating with my teachers and the Accessibility support team, I was supported to get a good outcome,” she explained.

"It’s been challenging, but I am committed and determined, and I know what I want, and with TAFE Queensland’s help, I was able to push through.”

While TAFE’s teachers and support services supported her dedication to study, allowing her to make consistent progress, she balanced her family commitments with her studies; her classmates have also been a crucial part of her journey.

Together, they share resources and study sessions and form a strong support network, encouraging each other every step of the way.

For Jessica, it’s this community that makes TAFE Queensland unique.

“We even have a WhatsApp group for biology where we help each other - it’s like having a whole team cheering you on,” she said.

With four weeks to go in her ATP course, Jessica is hopeful she’ll receive a university offer in December to study Paramedicine.

Reflecting on her journey, she’s proud of how far she’s come and hopeful her children see her as an example of resilience and dedication.

“I want them to see that you can keep growing and learning, no matter where you start,” concluded Jessica.

For Jessica, TAFE Queensland isn’t just a place of study; it’s a place that has empowered her to pursue a life-changing dream.