Traineeship offers crucial learning for adults and children

When Paige Fisher started her traineeship at Goodstart Ingle Farm, she was unsure about her future and what path to take. But since coming into the role, she’s discovered a passion for early learning and making a big impact on little lives.

Before joining Goodstart as a trainee, I worked in hospitality for a few years. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life and I didn’t know what direction I was going in. Then a friend of mine who worked in OSHC suggested I apply for a traineeship and I was successful.
 
Before my traineeship, I had no idea about the early learning curriculum, and the goals and observations. I’m now involved in curriculum planning and observations, as well as having those conversations with families every day about where each individual child is at, and what they’re learning. I set up learning experiences throughout the day based on each child’s individual goals. We’re constantly looking for new ways to improve - what are the children enjoying here? How can we make it better for them? How can we expand their minds even more? It’s all about the children and it’s definitely not just playing - there’s a lot of hard work that goes into our jobs.
 
I’ve learned so much in just a short time about children’s development. I now know that early childhood is the most crucial step before school because you’re setting children up for not just school but life. It’s a time when their brains develop the most; they’re learning words and they’re absorbing everything.
 
The most rewarding part of my job is the little wins. When there’s a child that might be struggling with writing their name or even speaking, and when you hear them say your name for the first time and see them interacting with other children, it’s really rewarding. Seeing their faces light up when you walk in the room and they’re yelling your name - that’s my favourite part of the day!
 
Becoming a trainee is definitely one of the best choices I’ve made for myself. I’ve been given so much opportunity to grow, and I’m definitely going to keep going. I think I’ll do my Diploma of Early Learning. I’ve looked into Early Childhood Teaching, and my dream is to one day become a Centre Director.
 
The support I’ve had here is incredible. The team is always pushing me to go a little bit further, so I’m constantly growing and I feel very secure in my role.

---