Skip to main navigation
Skip to content
With the support of Goodstart’s QPP (Qualifications Pathways Program) scholarship, Andrea Bolton, educator at Goodstart Trinity Beach, gained her Certificate III and turned a passion for early childhood education into a thriving career. Here, she recounts her experience.
For Andrea, her love of early years education began long before she entered the classroom as an educator. She did work experience at local kindergartens in high school, which sparked her passion for the sector.
‘I just fell in love with working with children,’ she recalls. ‘When I was in Year 12, I started studying my Certificate III, and it’s always been a passion for me.’
Years later, that same passion continues to drive Andrea’s professional journey at Goodstart Early Learning, where she’s built a rewarding career.
‘I’d been wanting to do my diploma for a while, but there were barriers – mainly financial,’ she says. ‘When I saw the scholarship come through, I thought it was a great opportunity to finally do it.’
Unfortunately, too much time had passed for her initial study to qualify for Recognition of Prior Learning and get her straight onto a diploma course. That’s when we came in with a scholarship to support her with both.
Breaking barriers to further study
Andrea has taken advantage of one of our most impactful professional development opportunities – the QPP (Qualifications Pathways Program) scholarship – available to eligible new Goodstarters in QLD. Exemptions may apply for those living in border regions (e.g. NSW) but working in a Queensland service.
When Andrea first learned about the Goodstart QPP scholarship through an internal email, she immediately recognised it as a great opportunity to take the next step in her career.
The QPP scholarship program provides Goodstart educators and early learning professionals with financial and practical support to complete further qualifications – from Certificate III to Diploma and beyond.
The program helps remove the barriers that can make study difficult for those already working in the sector, such as tuition costs, time management, and access to mentorship.
Andrea’s experience is a perfect example of how the QPP scholarship can open doors. ‘The scholarship has helped me financially and allowed me to upskill,’ she says. ‘Goodstart covered the course fees, and when I completed my Certificate III, I even received an incentive for finishing.’
Encouraged by that success, Andrea has since applied for another scholarship to complete her Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. She has already submitted her first assignment and is thriving in her return to studying.
‘When I first applied, I was a bit worried about balancing work and study,’ she admits. ‘But I’ve found that it’s going really well. I have the mindset that this is what I want to do – and that makes it easier.’
Supported, encouraged, and inspired to grow
Andrea said of the QPP scholarship: 'Goodstart covered the course fees. I even received an incentive for finishing my Certificate III'
A strong support network has also made a difference. ‘My husband has been really supportive, and my centre director and colleagues have helped me a lot too,’ Andrea explains. ‘Cassie and Tammy – they’re always checking in, and my team helps me gather evidence for my assessments. It really feels like everyone’s invested in my success.’
That sense of community and encouragement is something Andrea values deeply about working at Goodstart. ‘Goodstart’s incredible,’ she says with a smile. ‘It’s an amazing company, and they’re so supportive. I’ve built great friendships with my colleagues – everyone’s fun, helpful, and willing to lend a hand.’
For Andrea, the scholarship has not only made education accessible but also reignited her enthusiasm for professional growth. ‘I’m actually enjoying studying,’ she says. ‘It’s shown me that I can do more, and it’s given me the confidence to keep going.’
Building a bright future in early childhood
Looking ahead, Andrea hopes to continue her journey with Goodstart and take on new challenges as her career develops. ‘In the future, I hope to stay with Goodstart and one day become a Group Leader,’ she says. ‘I love my job – seeing the children, seeing the families, hearing the little ones call out “Hi Ms Andrea!” when I walk into the room. It’s heartwarming. That’s what brings me to work every day.’
Goodstart's QPP scholarship provides financial, wrap-around and mentoring support for Certificate III, Diploma and Bachelor candidates
Andrea’s story highlights the profound impact of initiatives like the QPP scholarship – not just for individuals, but for the early learning sector as a whole. By empowering educators to grow their skills, gain qualifications, and achieve their goals, Goodstart is investing in the future of high-quality early childhood education across Australia.
Her advice to others considering the scholarship is simple and heartfelt: ‘Go for it. You’ll get support – from your centre, from Goodstart, and financially too. I don’t think studying would’ve been possible for me without the scholarship.’
For educators like Andrea, the QPP scholarship has been a career-changing opportunity – a bridge between passion and possibility. It’s proof that with the right support, early childhood professionals can continue to learn, lead, and make an even greater difference in the lives of children and families.
So, if you’ve ever thought about upskilling, advancing your qualifications, or reigniting your love for learning – this could be your moment. With a range of scholarships now available for passionate new Queensland-based staff – with some flexibility in northern New South Wales – we're seeking professionals ready to take the next step.