Mum finds new direction
After years spent raising four children and helping run a family business, Gympie local Renee Nolan decided it was time to do something just for herself.
Now, the career changer and mum of four is studying the Certificate III in School Based Education Support CHC30221 at TAFE Queensland’s Gympie campus, taking the first step toward a new role supporting students in the classroom.
Renee, who runs an outdoor power equipment business with her husband, said she had been thinking about a change for some time but was not ready to commit to a university degree.
“I’ve always had an interest in teaching, but I wasn’t quite prepared to go back and do a degree at this stage,” she said.
“When I saw the Certificate III was fee-free, that was a huge incentive. I thought I’d give it a try – there was nothing to lose.”
Delivered through TAFE Queensland, the Certificate III in School Based Education Support provides students with the practical skills needed to work as teacher aides or education support workers in schools.
For Renee, the course has been a manageable way to explore a new career path while balancing family life and business commitments.
“The workload is manageable. I do one day at TAFE, one day placement, and then assignments,” she said.
“Our business is very seasonal, so it fits around that as well. I can still work when I need to.”
As part of her studies, Renee is completing vocational placement at St Patrick’s Primary School – a familiar place for her family.
With her children having attended the school, Renee said she already had a foot in the door when it came time to organise her placement.
“I was really nervous about that, but I thought I’d try there first,” she said.
“They emailed straight back and said yes – I was so relieved.”
Renee is gaining hands-on experience working in a Year 1 classroom, where she is putting her skills into practice and building confidence in a real school environment.
Being immersed in the classroom has opened opportunities, with the school offering her the chance to take on casual relief teacher aide work.
“At this stage, casual work suits me really well,” she said.
“It gives me flexibility to continue working in the business, but if a full-time role came up, I’d definitely look at that too.”
While returning to study after many years came with its challenges, Renee said the support from her TAFE Queensland teacher made all the difference.
“Britta is great. She has a lot of practical experience and uses real-life examples, which I’ve found helpful,” she said.
Renee has also enjoyed learning alongside a diverse group of classmates, from school leavers to other career changers and parents.
“Everyone just gets along really well.”
While fee-free training gave her the confidence to take the leap, Renee said her decision ultimately came down to doing something she genuinely wanted to pursue.
“This is something I really want to do,” she said.
Her advice for others considering a career change is simple.
“Just go for it. Try it and see if it works around your life – I’m finding it very manageable, and there’s a lot of support.”