Seventeen year old Nioka Watson has always demonstrated a natural affiliation with young children so it comes as no surprise that she has fitted in extremely well at the Little Scholars School of Early Learning in Stapylton.
The former student has already completed her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and has signed up to do a Diploma of Early Childhood, whilst working at Little Scholars.
BUSY At Work Career and Placement Advisor, Danya Moody was full of praise for Nioka who had begun her studies in childcare whilst still in Year 11 at Helensvale High School.
“We first met Nioka late last year when we visited her school to inform the students about apprenticeships and traineeships. Helensvale was just one of 20 schools we visited to inform students about BUSY At Work’s Gateway Services.”
“Nioka was one of the stand outs of the group who made an effort to engage with us and ask a lot of questions. Being a highly motivated young person we were keen to find an employer who would take her on while studying for her Diploma.”
“We telephoned Little Scholars and following a successful interview, Nioka commenced work in December last year. This is a great outcome for a young lady who is passionate about working with children,” Ms Moody said.
Little Scholars Centre Manager, Amy Wood said Nioka was a keen and enthusiastic worker who had shown a great maturity in the role.
“Nioka has been very hands on in helping prepare meals, setting up activities and being part of our education program for the children.”
“She has an outgoing and nurturing personality and is always keen to engage with the children. She works very well with the parents and has become a valued and respected member of our team,” Mrs Wood said.
Nioka said she was very grateful for the support she had received from BUSY At Work.
“They have been very supportive and encouraging and kept me up to date with everything I need to know. When I got the job Danya was really excited for me and I would not have been able to get the job at Little Scholars without their support,” Ms Watson said.
Nioka said working with children had always been a lifelong ambition. “I have a lot of relatives with younger cousins and I have always enjoyed spending time with them.”
“I’ve learnt so much since working at the centre and I’m passionate about giving kids a childhood they can remember and be happy about,” Ms Watson said.
As for the future, Nioka said she would like to own her own childcare care centre one day or maybe specialise in the legal side of children’s services.
BUSY At Work CEO, Paul Miles said Nioka’s positive attitude and passion for childcare had set a great example for other young people to follow in achieving their career goals.
“Nioka has demonstrated that she has the confidence and ability to succeed and BUSY At Work is delighted to be supporting her in her chosen career.”
“With her dedication and commitment to both her work and study I have no doubt that Nioka will continue to excel,” Mr Miles said.
