Dedicated education student
Terri- Anne Logan is a student who commenced her study in 2020 at the start of the COVID restrictions and although she was not able to benefit from the CBD model, she demonstrated great commitment to her study. She attended the zoom classes, worked closely with lectures, used the Indigenous Tutorial Network (ITN) tutoring support and returned to face-to-face classes when the travel restrictions were removed.
As a case study Terri-Anne’s story demonstrates why this model of study is still able to provide experiential learning opportunities that are unique and tailored to the needs of our cohort. Terri-Anne has many community and family commitments however she commented that the flexibility of CBD and the partnership approach that lecturers and students have at NIKERI enabled her to reach her goal and she is now completing her last trimester of university study and already employed at a primary school.
STEM Scholarship recipient
Rykia Blanco from Western Australia is currently studying in her second year of a Bachelor of Education (Primary). She was a recipient of Teachers in STEm Initiative scholarship. The Teachers of STEM Initiative (ToSI) is funded by the National Indigenous Australians Association (NIAA). It is a 10-year pilot project to support First Nations women in gaining teaching qualifications in Science, Technology, Engineering and/or Mathematics. ToSI includes Mentoring and Support Pathways as well as scholarship funding to enrol and attend university.
Education Awards
A Bachelor of Education (Primary) student received recognition from Deakin at the School of Education Awards in May. Angela Swindle from Western Australia was awarded the Tech Education Award. Angela has now completed her studies and gained a full time teaching position.
Upskilling in education
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education student, Kiarah Judd is a great example of a school leaver looking to solidify their future career. While many of NIKERI Institute’s students are mature age students who find the Community Based Delivery model the best option to combine study with employment and family commitments, Kiarah wanted a more tailored transition to university that would allow her more support in understanding higher education and the academic skills that are required. Although still a first year student because she works in a skilled shortage area it has led to employment in the Early Years Sector already.