Meet Elsie, our latest student feature sharing her positive outlook on life and passion for working with children

Meet Elsie, a mother and inspiring student and we are proud to introduce you to her story.

Elsie comes with a 20-year career background in Finance based in Malaysia. After moving to Australia during Covid-19, she wanted to do something for herself and inspire her future. She enrolled into the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care CHC30113.

What made you start studying?

“I wanted to do something for myself but my family is my first priority. So, I choose to stay in Australia until safe during the start of Covid-19. My aunty suggested working in this career path as she has been in it for 20 years. I was then searching around for course options, and I wanted something close to me. I found a few options including FYI and then I followed what felt right.”

“Maree is the first one to welcome you and she is so warm. It really does feels like a little family. I can see the people, the environment made me feel warm and welcome. From my experience that’s more important than a job.”

What it’s like working in the industry? Elsie got a job on her workplace placement after the first week!

“I think it’s great that what I study now I can apply into practice, it’s all very useful. When you study you know a lot but getting that real life work experience helps us to improve our skills.”

 “When it comes to working in Early Education as the educator they spend long hours with us, sometimes from 6:30am in the morning to 6:30pm in the evening - everyday. So, we are actually spend more time with them than their parents. Early childhood educators have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young children. Our job is to give them that valuable start in life to a good education and helping them to develop their social skills in a safe and a caring environment that promote learning through play.”

 “Children are just like white paper. Parents and educators need to put the colour on the paper - and in real life. I prefer colourful life like a rainbow.”

 “As a mum I try to use my experience and pass on to the kids in the centre. I try my best to teach them the good qualities. And when you see if they are improving and growing it makes you happy!

It’s a feeling that money can’t buy.”

The best parts about studying at FYI:

“Nan is the one she is amazing. The way Nan deliveries is so professional. I feel comfortable as she is there to support me. She is very professional and that is why I want to continue studying with my diploma. She always gives me advice and is sharing her experience making it easier to study.

Having someone there to hear you and give you the best advice even any personal or study problem – is the best. I am lucky as I have a lot of people here to support me.”

Career Goals?

“Maybe I would like to be a trainer like Nan one day, but my focus right now is gaining my working experience.”

What advice do you have for other students?

“I believe if you close this door another one will open.”

 “Nothing is easy, but you have to work and stay positive.”

 “Just do what you love then nothing can stop you”

 “Don’t undervalue yourself”

 “For kids a sense of belonging is very important.”

“No matter how others try pull you down, just stop and think sorry my thinking is positive. Follow your goals because we don’t know what will happen in the future. Enjoy the moment & do the best for yourself.”

“Step up to the first step otherwise you won’t know what can happen. It’s not easy.”

Tell us about role-modelling as a mother?

“The real challenge for parents is to provide a positive example as often as possible. “Parent by example“ is probably the best, simplest and most all-encompassing parenting advice you will ever get. From my actions in studying, I have inspired my children with their school and studies. Parent modelling is so important as you let them see by your example.”

What are you passionate about? 

“Many things. I'm always looking to challenge myself and learn new things. My role which you have to love children and being around kids.

I enjoy my life. I enjoy my new life here & the people around. I also love travelling & swimming.”

Life in Australia

“This is my first job in Australia and the Malaysia working environment is very different.

Before this I thought that study was so hard. But when you are comfortable- it is good. I look after kids, am working and study.

I never thought I would study again in my life. But I have to do something for myself and not let the time pass by doing nothing.”

Congratulations to Elsie we are so proud of your journey and glad you are part of the FYI Education & Training family.

For more student stories: click here.