The theme to this year’s Adult Learners Week is ‘It’s never too late to learn’, and Thomas Hamlyn-Harris, a student at STEPS Caloundra, is the perfect example of how pivoting your skills to stay passionate in your career can have a great impact and create new opportunities.
To highlight the benefits of upskilling for Adult Learners Week, we visited a Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33015) classroom at STEPS Caloundra and spoke with Thomas Hamlyn-Harris.
Thomas was a university lecturer in graphic design but after experiencing burnout during the pandemic, he desired a career change, and found satisfaction in support work in the disability sector.
Although he already had some experience gained on the job, Thomas pursued the CERT III program to acquire additional skills for his professional development.
Throughout his learning journey he says STEPS has provided him with great one-on-one support and excellent learning materials.
“Their online learning platform is really clear and has enabled me to learn a lot through the process.”
The class environment has also helped contribute to Thomas’ positive overall experience.
“I’ve really enjoyed being in a small classroom but there are lots of activities and interactions encouraged so we have a good laugh and enjoy the day as well as do the learning.”
Lifelong skills that transfer beyond the classroom and workplace add value to Thomas’s learning outcomes.
“The skills I’ve learned at STEPS have really helped me outside of the college because I think I have more understanding and patience with everyone. Understanding dementia in particular has really helped me in talking to my clients. That theoretical knowledge as well as practical knowledge has really helped me be more myself with the clients.”
While completing his course at STEPS, Thomas also created his own company incorporating his background in graphic design, publishing and writing with disability support. His company will “support people with disabilities to achieve their goals in the creative industries”.
We wish you all the best in your new endeavours, Thomas!
