Catherine Christmas had always done factory work. Now she is enjoying a fulfilling career as a disability support worker.
Six months ago, Catherine graduated from a certificate course which she says was a "confidence booster" and "the best thing for me".
The fee-free Certificate III in Individual Support course was hosted by Carinity and delivered by registered training organisations.
The next courses will commence in Boonah and Beaudesert in the next month.
Designed for adults including recent school leavers and mature-age students, the part-time course includes vocational placement and practical work experience.
Completing the nationally recognised course, funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative, enables graduates to work in the fields of disability support and aged care.
Catherine, 60, had aspired to support people in need in her community but baulked at the cost of studying.
"I talked about it for a few years, but I had failed at school and was scared of failing after paying money to study. I feared not being good enough," she said.
Catherine completed the course at Carinity Illoura in Beaudesert where the graduating students were aged between 21 and 59 years.
"Everyone was so supportive, and the students came together. We went from not knowing one another to supporting one another," Catherine said.
Catherine gained new friends and a mentor in the form of Carinity Illoura Learning Centre Coordinator, Ruth Bishop, who remains in contact with course graduates.
Catherine is now enjoying her exciting new career as a personal carer supporting people in the Scenic Rim region who live with a disability.
"My heart is to help people in their homes. At the end of the day, it's a good feeling knowing that you've helped someone," she said.
"With the factory work I was rostered with hours all over the place. Now I'm working less hours for the same amount of money. It's all worked out really well."
The next fee-free Certificate III in Individual Support courses are scheduled to commence at Carinity Illoura (Beaudesert) in late-April, and Carinity Fassifern Community Centre (Boonah), in mid-May.
