Hildraux goes from Volunteer to Future History Teacher

Today, he’s well on his way to turning that passion into a career - thanks to a life-changing studying journey through TAFE Queensland.

Hildraux’s educational path began at our Bracken Ridge campus, where he completed the Certificate II in Skills for Education Training and Employment Pathways (11140NAT).

From there, he enrolled in the Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation (11240NAT) (ATP) at TAFE Queensland’s South Bank campus - a critical stepping stone that allowed him to gain a tertiary entrance ranking, putting university within reach.

“For personal and visa reasons, ATP was something I needed to do,” Hildraux explained.

“I want to become a high school history teacher, but because I didn’t finish high school in Australia, I couldn’t get into university. ATP gave me the chance to earn a ranking and chase my dream.”

He’s now continuing his studies with the Certificate IV in School Based Education Support (CHC40221), back at Bracken Ridge, where he’s gaining hands-on experience supporting school children with diverse needs - a perfect fit for someone planning a future in education.

“I saw the course as a pathway into teaching, and it’s helping me learn about the profession from the ground up,” he said.

Before studying with TAFE Queensland, Hildraux volunteered at the Salvation Army Store in Kallangur, worked as an assistant baker, and was a supervisor at a gym supplement company.

But it was the engaging and accessible learning environment at TAFE Queensland that helped him take the leap into his dream career in education.

“What drew me to TAFE Queensland was how affordable it was - even for someone like me who isn’t a citizen or permanent resident - and how many campus options there are across Queensland,” he said.

Hildraux credits TAFE Queensland’s supportive teachers with helping him grow personally and professionally.

“They’ve always been there to help while challenging me to think critically. They gave me great advice on time management, study planning, and how to be a lifelong learner. They’re the kind of teachers I aspire to be.”

The growth in confidence he’s experienced throughout his studies is something he’s especially proud of.

“Since starting the certificate II program at Bracken Ridge, moving on to ATP at South Bank, and now doing the education support course, I’ve grown so much.”

“I’m more confident with people, more confident in my abilities, and more confident in my future as a teacher,” he explained.

While the Bracken Ridge campus may not be the biggest or busiest, Hildraux finds peace and purpose in its quiet environment.

“The Bracken Ridge campus has this peaceful vibe, like there’s no rush. I love that feeling. It’s such a contrast to the always-on energy of the South Bank campus.”

The most rewarding part of his studies, he says, is going beyond the curriculum.

“During modern history in ATP, I dove so deep into my research that I was learning things well beyond the course content. That’s the kind of learning I love.”

As he looks to the future, Hildraux is considering a Bachelor of Education - and perhaps even a PhD in history one day.

“While I still think about finding the mausoleum of Alexander the Great, I know I want to keep teaching and sharing my love of history with the next generation,” he said.

For others thinking about a career in education, Hildraux has simple advice for anyone considering TAFE Queensland.

“Ask yourself - do you love learning? Do you love sharing that knowledge? If yes, then consider studying education support at TAFE Queensland - it’s a great way to test the waters.”

“Studying at TAFE Queensland is affordable, convenient, and the teachers are absolutely lovely. The learning content is rich, the assessments are interesting, and the support is real.”

“It’s not always easy - full-time ATP was intense - but if you’re passionate and determined, it’s worth it,” concluded Hildraux.