For SuniTAFE graduate Leonie Carter, completing her early childhood education and care qualification was a time of pride and relief because of how hard she needed to work to juggle several jobs, a business, family, and study.  

So, when she was named a Vocational Student of the Year finalist at the 2025 Victorian Training Awards, this was unexpected recognition of the effort she had put in.  

“When I found out I was a finalist I was surprised and shocked that I was selected,” she said.  

“But I was also really proud to know that my hard work has been recognised, and it reminded me of why I’m so glad I didn’t give up, and I’m excited to celebrate that at the gala with my two daughters.  

“Being from a small, rural town, I’m excited about visiting Melbourne, but at the gala I’m also looking forward to meeting the other finalists and listening to their journeys.” 

Leonie has lived in the town of Werrimull for more than 40 years, and being involved in her community is very important to her.  

So, when the local kindergarten centre needed an additional staff member in order to stay open, Leonie jumped at the chance. 

She already held a Certificate III in her field but decided to enrol in the diploma to refresh and improve her skills.  

“I’ve always had a passion to work with young children so I offered to fill in at the kinder when they needed someone,” she said.  

“I’m now back at the school working in the Prep - Year 2 room but because of my diploma I think I do my job more effectively as I’ve got the confidence to work more collaboratively with staff. 

“I’ve also gained lots of different skills and knowledge that helps me interact with the young children I work with and to build positive relationships with families, which is quite important in our small community.” 

Leonie has worked at Werrimull P12 School for close to 16 years now and she is proud to work in an environment that helps young people start their educational journey on the right foot.  

“We need to have dedicated people working in early years education because children need educators who understand their different learning needs and know that not every child is the same,” she said.  

“If you can understand the child and help them in their growth, that sets them up with the skills they need moving forward and encourages them to be lifelong learners.”  

Studying at SuniTAFE was an opportunity for Leonie to push herself out of her comfort zone, and it was an experience she is ultimately very grateful for.  

“Studying at SuniTAFE was better than I expected because I had been out of it for a long time, I hadn’t studied for a few years, so naturally I was a bit hesitant,” she said.  

“I also completed my diploma off campus and I was working several jobs and running a business at the same time, but I was always so supported, I had some really great teachers. 

“My teachers were Michelle Etherington, Rhianna May, and Kerryn Murnane and they were so supportive, and in all areas that I had to cover, they were very knowledgeable, and they did everything they could to ensure I was successful.” 

In addition to the help of her teachers, Leonie is grateful for the rest of her support network who were by her side during her course. 

“I want to thank my daughters who encouraged me even when life was tough,” she said.  

“To my current workplace, Werrimull P12 School for their flexibility, allowing me to work at the kindergarten and the school at the same time.  

“And finally, the previous director at the kinder last year, Christina who was always available to provide feedback and share her knowledge because I learned a lot from her.”  

If you would like to read more about the Victorian Training Awards and SuniTAFE’s three student finalists, click here.