Trainee of the year finalists
Amelia Fithall
Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Amelia decided to study early childhood education after a car accident changed her goals. Her mum and grandmother worked in early childcare, so Amelia was familiar with kindergarten settings.
Completing the Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, despite the challenges of Auditory Processing Disorder, shows Amelia’s determination. She sought help from her teachers when needed, contributing to her academic success at Chisholm.
In a full-circle moment, Amelia now works as an educator at the kindergarten she attended as a child. Her biggest rewards have been witnessing children’s developmental milestones, and the team’s achievement in Exceeding National Quality Standard.
Amelia is passionate about supporting children with additional needs and believes “the best educators never stop learning.”
Casey Jones
Certificate III Sport, Aquatics and Recreation
"Never let a disability hold you back from what you want to achieve," says Casey, a Certificate III Sport, Aquatics and Recreation student.
Though initially out of her comfort zone, Casey has transformed into a confident trainer who excels in high-pressure environments. Her studies have fostered a deep sense of resilience and tolerance, allowing her to lead with authority and empathy.
Her teacher commends Casey for consistently elevating the morale of everyone around her.
Casey enjoys teaching swimming to neurodivergent children, drawing from her lived experience with a disability to create a calm and inclusive space.
Looking ahead, Casey is inspired to continue studying and teach swimming to babies and people with a disability, showing her growth and passion as a trainer.
Tina Mannarino
Certificate III in Dental Assisting
After beginning her career in 1992, Tina renewed her qualifications by completing the Certificate III in Dental Assisting. Although hesitant to return to study after many years, Tina embraced her journey as a mature-age student.
In the classroom, she became a mentor, generously sharing 35 years of industry wisdom with her peers. Her dedication and academic success are testament to Tina’s passion for learning and working in the sector.
Her impact on the community is significant. Through the school dental service, Smile Squad, and community health services, Tina has shaped the oral health habits of countless children. Her manager counts her as a deeply valued team member, particularly for her engaging hygiene education.
Tina aims to further her studies and specialise in oral health education.
Lulu Quinn
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Lulu has always known her calling was working with children. Her journey led her to complete the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care within a year.
Despite previous struggles in school, she flourished with her teachers' support, who have described her as an “exceptional young woman whose impact is far beyond her years.”
Currently working in a childcare centre, Lulu’s dedication earned her Employee of the Month three times in one year. Her confidence in working with younger children has increased significantly, and she supports children from six weeks old.
Lulu is now doing further studies and dreams of becoming a centre director. Ultimately, she aims to own a service and help future trainees succeed.
Justin Thomason
Certificate III in Business
"This opportunity has changed my life," says Justin, who returned to education for the first time since age 14 to study a Certificate III in Business.
Living with quadriplegia, Justin initially faced self-doubt, but his journey at Chisholm has replaced that with independence and a sense of purpose. In class, he showed immense initiative, even designing a hypothetical family-friendly computer store for his customer service units.
Justin has already made significant professional contributions at his workplace. He has redesigned government policy intake systems and improved reporting accuracy through his keen eye for detail.
His passion for data science drives his future aspirations. Justin plans to mentor others with disabilities and start a fundraiser to purchase specialised equipment for hospitals.