My life has really changed

From TAFE course to Online Access Centre volunteer to VET in Schools course to employment - all at the Huon LINC.

It’s amazing really - six months ago I was a stay-at-home mum, and now I’m in a job I love, with a wonderful employer, and I’m completing my Certificate II in Business. It all happened a lot quicker than I thought it would. It’s hard to believe.

I’d always intended to get back into the workforce, but I needed some training, and there was no way I would be able to go up to town – Hobart – that is. Then one day at the LINC I picked up a brochure for the TAFEConnect course. It was for people who wanted to get into the workforce. It was free, and just what I wanted; so I enrolled. I loved the work – although I had been nervous at first, because I’d lost touch with school. But the other people were really nice, and I made a couple of good friends.

Then in the school holidays I decided to become a volunteer at the online access centre here at the LINC. They offered free computer training for volunteers. Again I was nervous, but I loved it. And my confidence grew. I found myself helping people like a retired school teacher and a couple from France looking for real estate. It was quite a buzz.

Next thing I knew Pip had mentioned that I could do a VET course here at the LINC through Hobart College. Well I was ready. I’d brushed up my skills with TAFEConnect - even got a first aid certificate. So I started. But I also needed part-time work because my partner was off work for quite a few months. The first employers I tried weren’t able to offer flexible hours, and it was unskilled work really. Then I found this job I’ve got now. They are a great employer, really flexible – I guess it’s called family friendly these days.

So I work part-time and get on-the-job training and assessment to finish my Certificate II. I’m just going to take a deep breath and enjoy this for the time being. I know I can do it. My life has really changed – for the better.

Emma Eady