Three Bundaberg women have recently earned a Certificate III in Individual Support qualification through STEPS' training course, becoming the first family in the region to complete a STEPS program together.
Tara Turner, along with her daughter Nataya Turner and niece Kira Caterer, enrolled in the 26-week course to motivate each other and pursue new career opportunities in the aged care and disability sectors.
Ms Turner, who already has a long career in mental health support, said she took on the Certificate III in Individual Support to encourage her daughter and niece to find fulfilling and meaningful work.
"I could see the potential that Nataya and Kira had for support work, so I decided the best way to motivate them and support them through this career change was to do it with them," Ms Turner said.
"We prepared for the Course together and worked through it as a team. I work full time, Nataya has two children under the age of two and has always worked in hospitality, and Kira works in catering but just wasn't fulfilled by the work. It just made sense to band together and give it our all as a family."
STEPS' Certificate III in Individual Support Course is designed to give participants the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to provide person-centred support to people who require assistance due to ageing or disability.
Over 26 weeks, the participants gain hands-on experience and undergo 120 hours of STEPS-organised work placement, getting them ready to jump straight into a career care.
Ms Turner says it was her daughter and niece's experience looking after her at a young age that made her realise they had the soft skills for support work and could pursue this career change.
"The girls have always been kind and caring, but they have grown so much over the last few months, both personally and professionally," Ms Turner said.
"Now they've got jobs that truly make them happy. They see the positive impact they have on their clients and it motivates them to keep putting their heart and soul into it. I think that's an important part of care work that people should know – this will become your life, but it will be the most fulfilling thing you ever do, and you'll connect with your community in a way that's so rewarding."
STEPS Individual Support Trainer Corey Andersen said she was excited to see the women successfully finish the Course together and hopes their story will inspire others to pursue a new qualification together.
"Tara, Nataya and Kira's journey shows that there's no better time than right now to jump on an opportunity and work towards a life that will make you truly happy," Ms Andersen said.
"At STEPS, we pride ourselves on delivering our training programs in a way that support each individual participant and their needs. We form our own little community and encourage one another, and we learn in ways that are practical and fun. Whether you're going into it as an individual or bringing a loved one along for the ride, you'll walk away with so many amazing experiences, friendships and opportunities."
Individuals who are interested in making a career change or pursuing a nationally recognised qualification are encouraged to visit STEPS' Education and Training Courses
