Mature aged student discovers it's never too late to learn
Monday, 6 August 2007 11:51AM - All Campuses
News in brief:
After 25 years of raising her children , Mackay mother of four Catherine Murray secures employment within the retail industry after completing Certificate 2 in Retail Operations online.News in detail:
Mackay mother of four Catherine Murray is positive proof of TAFE's slogan Anything's Possible, having returned to study to pursue a career in retail.
Catherine left the work force 25 years ago to raise her four children as a single mother. Thanks to CQ TAFE, Catherine has successfully completed an online course in Retail and is on track to achieving her goals.
"I was very nervous in the beginning and felt that as a mature aged student, I was too old to complete the course online as I had limited computer experience," Ms Murray said.
"I confronted my fears and enrolled into a computer course which was completed at the same time as the Certificate II in Retail Operations.
"The computing course provided me with the necessary confidence, skills and knowledge to navigate around the computer, use the internet and email systems.
"Through the guidance and support of staff, my confidence built and I soon believed that I could do anything I set my mind to" Ms Murray said.
"TAFE has provided me with the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence to secure employment in the retail industry. I was surprised, as I didn't think this would be possible as a mature aged student," Ms Murray said.
Institute Director Steve Mathieson said Catherine was an inspiration to the community, proving that it was never too late to learn a new course and pursue your dreams, goals and career pathways.
"CQ TAFE excels at providing quality, flexible training services to help people improve their skills and job prospects, no matter what their age or experience level," Mr Mathieson said.
Retail co-ordinator, Barbara Spagnolo said the turnaround in Catherine's confidence and self esteem was wonderful, she really enjoyed working and had a positive outlook on her workplace environment.
Catherine returned to CQ TAFE Mackay Campus in Semester 2 to undertake certificate III in Retail Operations to further her career and skills, widening a range of career advancement opportunities in the retail field and to increase her knowledge of all aspects of the retail trade.
Barbara said previously students could not always attend the campus to complete their studies due to work or family commitments. On-line learning provides students with greater flexible study options providing an opportunity to study courses from other campuses within CQ TAFE or from home.
"Student numbers have soared in the program and each semester a large number of students are obtaining employment with majority employed directly from vocational placement," Mrs Spagnolo said.
"The Certificate 2 and 3 in Retail Operations delivered on-line, runs for six months full time and 12 months part time. During the course, students undergo vocational placement, allowing them to work in different areas of a retail store and receive hands on experience. Workshops are held at the campus for students requiring further assistance with the course."
CQ TAFE is your pathway to greater possibilities!
Media enquiries: Angela Case, Media and Communications Officer, phone 4920 2670
Submitted By:CQ TAFE