Cobden’s Bree Davis wins Deakin University Pathways Award on graduation 

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care new graduate Bree Davis was recently awarded the Deakin University Pathways Award during her graduation, recognising her as a dedicated student with a strong commitment to learning.

Ms Davis completed her Diploma at South West TAFE, where her passion for study was evident in her proactive approach.

“(Bree) was able to apply the gained knowledge into her practices at the service and has grown into a beautiful educator who has shown unconditional passion for working with children,” South West TAFE Early Childhood Education and Care teacher Natasha Broughill said, expression that she was thrilled for Bree to win this year’s Deakin Award.

Born and raised in Cobden, Ms Davis lived in Melbourne, Queensland and Western Australia before moving back to Cobden about eight years ago before her oldest child started kindergarten.

“I was in the throes of motherhood with three young children at home and in a job that wasn’t fulfilling,” she said.

“A traineeship came available through Corangamite Shire in conjunction with South West TAFE and I took a leap, and here we are.”

Having supportive teachers has helped her to thrive, she continued, saying they were “so accommodating” and understanding of her work/life/study balance.

“I’d send an email at 10:30 at night and if they weren’t up, they’d reply first thing the next morning and they were amazing,” she added.

Corangamite Council Coordinator Child Care & Family Day Care Michelle Maraldo said the Council “couldn’t be more proud” of Ms Davis and her achievements. 

“She has worked really hard to achieve her diploma and we encourage studying educators to continue on with their studies if that is something they want to do,” she said.

Along with her diploma, Ms Davis received the $1000 award for showing outstanding qualities in preparing to study a degree at Deakin.

“Working in the (early childhood sector) whilst studying was so beneficial. It helped me have knowledge in practice. As I was moving with the children, I was understanding why the theory was happening at the same time.”

Ms Davis currently has a permanent part-time position with the Council, and plans to complete a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and move into a kindergarten program or into an early intervention program where she can further help families and children.

“I love seeing the growth in children,” she said. 

“I love being a part of their story and helping them and their families fit into a new place and transition into something new, which can at times be scary, but it’s our job to help them navigate that and support them through that.”