ÍáÍáÂþ»­

December 13, 2024

Jeneva’s Journey: From the Philippines to Early Childhood Education in Brisbane

Jeneva Bitchayda, originally from the Philippines, is currently studying the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care (CRICOS Course Code: 107131M) at ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College’s Brisbane campus. She has always had a deep passion for working with children, and her journey to studying childcare in Australia has been an exciting and fulfilling one. For Jeneva, every day in her studies is a new opportunity to learn, grow, and prepare for the meaningful career she’s always dreamed of.

Jeneva shared with us her experience so far and the invaluable skills she’s developing, as well as the advice she has for others who are considering a career in childcare.

What key skills did you develop or improve during your study?

When I first started studying childcare, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. But as I’m reflecting, I’m so grateful for all the skills I’ve developed during my time at ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College. The course has provided me with a strong foundation of both theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience. One of the things that stands out most to me is the balance between learning from the experts and actually getting the chance to apply what I’ve learned in real-world settings.

At ÍáÍáÂþ»­, we actively engage in the learning process. The trainers here are incredibly knowledgeable, and they bring real-world experience into our studies. This has helped me develop the skills I’ll need to succeed in the childcare industry. For example, I’ve learned how to create a safe and nurturing environment for children, how to effectively communicate with both kids and their families, and how to design activities that are both fun and educational.

Through lots of practical sessions, I’ve also learned the importance of being patient and compassionate while also setting clear boundaries. Working with children requires you to be calm and understanding, especially when they’re learning to navigate their emotions or the world around them. There’s also a lot of focus on effective communication, not only with children but with their families as well. Through the course, I’ve realised that a big part of being an education is about building strong, trusting relationships with both kids and their parents.

The hands-on experiences have been invaluable, and it has boosted my confidence in my abilities and has shown me just how rewarding this career can be. I now feel equipped to confidently step into the childcare sector and make a real difference in the lives of children.

How have the trainers at ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College supported you through your study?

The trainers at ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College are incredibly knowledgeable and experienced, and they genuinely want to see us succeed. They don’t just teach us what we need to know; they go above and beyond to guide and mentor us. They help us recognise our strengths and areas for improvement, and they’re always there to offer support and encouragement.

What I appreciate most is that the trainers create a warm and supportive learning environment where it’s okay to ask questions and make mistakes. This kind of atmosphere is crucial for personal and professional growth. In childcare, we work with young children who are also learning, so we have to be willing to embrace the process of growth ourselves. At ÍáÍáÂþ»­, I’ve learned that mistakes aren’t failures — they’re simply part of the learning journey. This mindset has really helped me develop confidence and resilience, both in my studies and in my future career.

How does ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College support your journey?

From day one, ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College has been an incredible support system for me. The college is dedicated to helping students stay focused on their goals, providing all the resources we need to succeed. The trainers genuinely care about our progress, and I’ve always felt like they are invested in my success. That’s not something you find everywhere, and it’s one of the things that makes ÍáÍáÂþ»­ stand out.

The learning environment here is designed to be safe and supportive, which makes it easier for students to take risks and push themselves. I always feel like I’m being guided in the right direction, and knowing that my trainers and peers have my back makes all the difference. ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College has created a space where students feel empowered to follow their dreams and confident in their ability to reach them.

What advice would you give to any students interested in studying childcare?

For anyone considering studying childcare, I would say: be patient, proactive and open to learning. This profession is all about caring for children and guiding them through some of the most formative years of their lives. And that’s a huge responsibility, but also an incredibly rewarding one. If you’re passionate about working with kids and helping them grow, then you’ll find this field to be both fulfilling and meaningful.

It’s important to remember that working with children requires patience, especially when you’re supporting their emotional development or teaching them new skills. Children don’t always express themselves the way adults do, and there will be times when you need to listen carefully, stay calm, and be understanding. But with time and experience, you’ll learn how to respond in a way that helps children feel heard, safe, and supported.

Another thing I’d say is being proactive in this field. It’s not just about reacting to situations as they come up; it’s about about anticipating the needs of the children you’re working with and taking the initiative to create engaging, enriching environments for them to thrive in. Whether that’s by planning activities, observing their development, or simply being there to listen, being proactive is key to being a great early childhood educator.

Conclusion

Looking back on my journey thus far, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences I’ve had so far. Studying childcare at ÍáÍáÂþ»­ College has not only helped me develop the skills I need to succeed but has also deepened my love for this profession. Every day is an opportunity to learn something new, and I’m excited for what the future holds.

If you have the heart and passion for helping children grow and learn, I encourage you to take the leap and pursue this rewarding career. It’s an incredible journey, and with the right training and support, you’ll be well on your way to making a real difference in the lives of children and familie

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