OSHC training in the spotlight as Karen Wright builds on life long passion

For Karen Wright, Director of Thrive Outside School Hours Care (Thrive OSHC) and founder of Thrive Training and Education, supporting educators to grow, develop and reach their potential has always been central to her commitment to the education and care sector.

Through her experience operating OSHC services, Karen has witnessed firsthand the dedication, skills and passion educators bring to their work. 

"Having worked in the OSHC sector, I've seen firsthand the dedication and commitment educators bring to their work every day. I've also seen the incredible potential in people when they're given the encouragement and opportunity to grow,” Karen said. 

It was this passion for people and professional growth that inspired the establishment of Thrive Training and Education in 2025, with the organisation formally gaining registration as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with ASQA in February 2026.

Recognising the value of OSHC educators

Karen believes that educators working in Outside School Hours Care play an essential role in children's development, wellbeing and sense of belonging.

Their responsibilities extend far beyond supervision. They create environments where children build friendships, develop independence, explore interests and grow in confidence.

Yet despite the importance of their work, opportunities for specialised qualifications and clearly defined career pathways within the OSHC sector have not always received the attention they deserve.

Recognising this gap, Karen wanted to help create opportunities for educators to formalise their experience, strengthen their professional capabilities and pursue meaningful career progression.

Specialist OSHC qualifications at heart of Karen’s mission

A key focus of Thrive Training and Education is the nationally recognised CHC50225 Diploma of School Age Education and Care.

Delivered over approximately 18 months, the qualification provides experienced educators with opportunities to further develop their skills, gain recognition for their knowledge and prepare for leadership, coordination and management responsibilities.

For Karen, however, the value of education extends well beyond gaining a qualification. It is about helping people recognise their potential, believe in their abilities and feel confident about their professional futures.

“I believe professional learning should never stop, regardless of where someone is in their career. Establishing Thrive Training and Education was about creating opportunities for educators to develop confidence, gain recognition for their skills and see a future filled with possibilities.”

Targeted short courses alongside nationally recognised qualifications  

Recognising that professional development needs differ throughout a person's career, Thrive Training and Education offers targeted short courses alongside nationally recognised qualifications.

These focus on practical areas including leadership, communication, managing challenging conversations, risk management, workforce planning, staff development and operational management.

The intention is to make professional learning relevant, accessible and directly applicable to the everyday challenges educators and service leaders encounter.

Drawing on the practical experience gained through Thrive OSHC, the organisation aims to connect theoretical knowledge with real workplace situations, helping educators develop not only their knowledge and skills, but also their confidence and professional judgement.

Investing in educators, strengthening the sector

Karen believes that investing in the professional development of educators is an investment in the future of the entire education and care sector.

When educators are supported to grow, the benefits extend beyond individual career achievements. Stronger professional capabilities contribute to confident teams, effective leadership, improved practices and quality experiences for children and families.

Equally important is creating a professional culture where educators feel valued, their achievements are recognised and their aspirations are encouraged.

Through Thrive Training and Education, Karen hopes to contribute to a workforce where continuous learning is embraced, career pathways are supported and educators are empowered to reach their full potential.

To learn more about Thrive Education and Training visit their website here.