Early childhood educators Sarah Flood and Jessica Warnell have been nominated in the NSW State Training Awards.
The awards are conducted annually by Training Services NSW within the NSW Department of Education to recognise outstanding achievement in the vocational education and training sector.
They are designed to honour and reward the achievements of students, trainers/teachers, registered training organisations and large and medium-size employer businesses.
Jessica Warnell works at Kids Academy Warnervale and Sarah Flood is at Kids Academy Erina Heights and they have been supported in their training by Affinity Learning Academy.
The fully-funded training program gives employees access to internal professional development programs as well as the opportunity to complete nationally recognised qualifications in early childhood education and business via registered training organisations.
Warnell has been in the early childhood industry for the past 16 years and loves being able to make a difference in young children’s lives, nurturing and providing them with the best start to their education.
“Industry Graduates (through Affinity Learning Academy) has been one of the best learning resources available throughout my diploma traineeship, knowing that I had the support and guidance available at hand, both online and in person which reassured me that I’d be able to complete my diploma at ease,” she said.
“Being nominated for the NSW State Training Awards makes me proud of my achievements and hard work and also allows me to share my positive experiences and encourage others to follow their dreams.”
Flood is in her third year working in childcare, coming straight from Year 12 after completing a school-based TAFE program in Year 11 and 12 which gave her the entry qualification.
“It means a lot to be nominated for the NSW State Training Awards – never in a million years would I have ever thought that I’d be considered,” she said.
“To be nominated by my industry trainer has boosted my confidence and given me clarification and reassurance that I am a great educator and fulfil my job.
“The training program helped me a lot and my industry trainer was contactable at any point that I needed her.
“It also made a huge difference that she comes out every fortnight to observe my training and it’s easier to discuss challenging questions and gain feedback when face-to-face with her.
“The best part that I love about my job is watching the children grow and learn – and it brings the biggest joy hearing their little voices say my name for the first time.”
Sue Murray