The lasting impact of education support

“I was told at primary school that I’d never be at the same level as my peers”, said Charlotte Brunt, a courageous young woman, education support worker and successful graduate of The Gordon.

Inspired by the support she received from teachers’ aides throughout her school years, Charlotte overcame personal challenges and discovered her passion for helping children reach their full potential within the education system.
 
“I was told at primary school that I’d never be at the same level as my peers because of my learning disability, more recently diagnosed as complex PTSD. I severely lacked confidence and I didn’t believe in myself. Having a teachers’ aide in high school supported my learning and helped me believe in myself. This inspired me to pursue studies in school based education support, so I could help future students reach their full potential too”, said Charlotte.
 
During her studies at The Gordon, Charlotte gained invaluable experience through work placements in the disability and foster care sectors. These opportunities allowed her to apply her learning in real-world settings, further developing her skills and confidence.
 
“My training and work experience has instilled great purpose within me and helped me further overcome my self-limiting beliefs.
 
Working at AmAble and Meli was incredibly rewarding. It gave me leadership opportunities, valuable industry connections and skills I still use at work today. It also enabled me to develop my own 10-week program to help teenage girls with disability”, said Charlotte.
 
The Gordon’s Education and Training Program Lead, Rachel Jones, praised Charlotte for her exceptional commitment and proactive initiative.
 
"Charlotte has been an outstanding student, excelling in our Certificate III in School Based Education Support course. Her dedication and passion are evident in her work placements. At a remarkably young age, in her own personal time, she conceptualised and initiated the 'Grow and Glow' program, designed to empower young women through self-care practices and confidence-building activities.”
 
Charlotte’s achievements have been recognised through prestigious awards, including The Gordon’s Community Services Excellence Award and Student of The Year Award.
 
Beginning her career in education support at a local primary school earlier this year, Charlotte has made a significant impact on her work community, where she is known for her empathetic approach, team spirit and providing tailored education and support for young people.
 
For Charlotte, the future brims with ambitious goals and continuous professional development.
 
“In five years from now, I see myself teaching education support and completing further studies so I can be a school teacher one day”.
 
Are you passionate about education and looking to make a difference in the lives of children? Start studying school based education support this July. Applications are now open for mid-year enrolments.