For Sarah Ross (on the left in the photo), the path to her dream career began with a simple truth – she’s always loved children. However, her school time wasn’t always easy. Crowds made her anxious and the pressure to perform in large classrooms felt overwhelming. That changed when she discovered Macquarie Community College’s Child Care courses, where small class sizes and a supportive environment helped her thrive.
Child Care Career Confidence: Starting Small, Dreaming Big
“I knew I couldn’t cope with large numbers of students,” Sarah says. “So, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Macquarie Community College offered small classes, where I felt comfortable and could focus on learning.”
That comfort gave her the confidence she needed to complete both her CHC30121 Certificate III and CHC50121 Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care – pivotal achievements that proved she could turn her dream into reality.
Learning Child Care, Finding Herself
Sarah’s journey wasn’t just about textbooks and training hours. It was about discovering strengths she didn’t know she had. She learned the milestones of child development and the power of understanding each child’s unique needs.
“These skills helped me understand my own challenges too,” she reflects. “When I work with different children now, I can recognise those differences, because I’ve learned how to reflect on myself as well.”
One unforgettable moment?
“We came to the class with the thought we’d be studying legislation,” she laughs, “but within the hour, we were at the park playing kids’ games and swinging on the swings. It reminded us why we love this job.”
Why Child Care a great Choice for School Leavers
Child care isn’t just a job – it’s a rewarding, impactful career. And for students like Sarah, it’s the perfect next step after school. Sarah started her training at just 16 and now works in a preschool, doing what she loves every day.
Sarah credits much of her success to the care and guidance of her trainer, Sue Bryant (on the right in the photo), Early Childhood Education and Care Lead Trainer at Macquarie Community College.
“One of my major supporters was Sue. She always checked on me and even came with me on my first day of work placement. She really believed in me.”
Sarah’s advice to others considering Child Care career:
“If you want a calm, supportive place to learn – and to actually enjoy what you study – this is Macquarie Community College.”
Sarah’s story is proof that a career in Child Care is more than a smart career move – it’s a life-changing opportunity.
Whether you’re finishing school or just starting out, Macquarie Community College can help you build a future where you make a difference. Just like Sarah!