TAFE courses armed proud Kamilaroi woman, Krista Lynch with the qualifications to educate and influence young minds all around NSW, with a Diploma in Childcare.

Krista has completed a total of three TAFE courses in Tamworth which has now enabled her to have an impact on the lives of many children across the region.

‘Studying at TAFE enabled me to gain practical work experience,’ said Krista. ‘A certificate and diploma in childcare helped me to practice the skills needed to educate in the classroom’.

Krista is currently an Area Manager in early childhood education in charge of overseeing several centres, working her way up from Room Assistant.

‘After gaining a TAFE certificate in childcare, I immediately gained employment working as an Assistant Educator,’ said Krista.

‘Knowing I wanted to help more and more children, I sought the opportunity to study my TAFE diploma while still working in my current role. TAFE gives you so many flexible ways to study while still earning money.’

‘A diploma in early childhood and care takes around 12 months to complete full-time, but if you’re already building on foundations of learning in the workplace, you're able to be signed off on units quicker.’

Krista spent a few years as a Room Leader, taking in the practical skills she learnt from her TAFE courses, and applying them to her work.

‘Skills you can expect to learn through your study are understanding children’s development, early learning year’s framework, health and nutrition, and curriculum planning,’ said Krista.

Having a passion for education and growing her leadership skills from years in the classroom, Krista knew she wanted a change and a way to inspire more staff and children.

‘The best part of my job is being in a passionate team, and also the relationships that I form with the children and families. I also really enjoy hearing laughter in the playground,’ said Krista.

Krista has a message to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mob, thinking about a rewarding career in early childhood education.

‘We are facing a shortage of qualified educators and without them we can’t continue to grow as a critical sector but also, we want to be able to ensure that we continue to provide the best education as possible for our future leaders, the next generation.’

‘Starting something through a TAFE course can lead to a whole new career. You can begin with a Cert 3 and then once you’ve completed your Diploma, you can have opportunities to take up a leadership role.’

Krista wants you to know if you’re thinking about a career in early childhood education, you could do it with a Fee-Free TAFE course.