Chinchilla resident Michael Turley has always had a great connection with kids, so it comes as no surprise that he is reveling in his role as an Educator at Charley’s Place Early Learning College.
“I always knew I wanted to work with children. When I was a kid I spent a lot of time with my younger cousins and was actively involved in their lives. I like being creative and working with children. It gives me the chance to develop a real connection with them,” Michael said.
Michael is just one of two male staff at the centre and despite being in a non traditional male role, the twenty-one year old said he has received nothing but support from his family and friends.
“It’s been a really good experience to go into this field and everyone has been absolutely fantastic. Since working at Charley’s Place Early Learning College they have made no concessions for my gender and I really like that. I am very happy with my decision and would definitely recommend it to other males who enjoy working with children,” Michael added.
Michael started his traineeship at the College in March 2013 and with the support of the QGC Strengthening Local Workforces Program, went on to complete his Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in October last year.
The program is a partnership between QGC and BUSY At Work providing mentoring, coaching and support for apprentices and trainees outside the resources sector in regional Queensland. Over 200 new jobs have been created in the childcare, health, hospitality and administration sectors since the program began in February 2012.
Michael was full of praise for the QGC Strengthening Local Workforces Program, which he attributes to giving him the confidence to move forward in his chosen career.
“The program gave me focus on where I wanted to go with my career and helped keep me on track during my study. The support from the BUSY At Work mentor was excellent and the life skills training in assertiveness and time management enabled me to become a better Educator,” Michael said.
Director of Charley’s Place Early Learning College, Jennifer Bell, said Michael was a great role model for all the children.
“He is very creative and connects well with all of the staff, students and parents alike and is a pleasure to have in our team. I hope Michael’s success might encourage other men who have a passion for working with children to follow in his footsteps,” Jennifer said.
BUSY At Work CEO, Paul Miles said Michael had set a standard for other young people wanting to follow in his footsteps.
“Michael has demonstrated a positive commitment and enthusiasm to his traineeship and set a great example for other young people wanting to follow in his footsteps.”
“Through the support and mentoring from the QGC Strengthening Local Workforces Program, Michael has continued to move forward in his career and make a very positive contribution to his employer and to the Chinchilla community,” Mr Miles said.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
0438 173 960 leanne.macnamara@busyatwork.com.au
