Jenny turns to a life in ECEC following lockdown, calling it her ‘dream career’

Freya Lucas

Sep 26, 2022

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The COVID-19 pandemic, and the subsequent ‘lockdown’ rules were life changing for many, including New South Wales mother of three, Jenny Gerber, who says the lockdown period was the catalyst for her finding her dream career in early childhood education and care (ECEC).

Ms Gerber was working in administration for an IT Department within a school. Her prior experiences with both senior and junior schools had shown her that she loved to be around the younger children, and during lockdown, when she was unable to work, she began exploring other career options, signing up for a Certificate III in Education Support through TAFE NSW.

Despite the challenges of studying while managing the needs of her own high school age children, two of whom have additional needs, Ms Gerber thrived, crediting her TAFE teachers for their support.

Having flexible learning options meant that she was able to more effectively juggle everyone’s needs, and complete her course.

“There was a combination of studying online and going into campus to meet up. The course was flexible, and I liked that,” she said.

Ms Gerber is now working in a preschool setting, supporting children in the two to three year old space, saying she was able to “hit the ground running” thanks to the way her course was delivered.

She hopes now to work with children from three to four years of age, setting them up for success in the primary years. To further this goal, she has plans of studying her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

To learn more about study options with TAFE NSW please visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.

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