For Olivia, what started as an opportunity to gain workplace experience while finishing school has grown into a rewarding career in early childhood education and care.
As a Year 11 student, Olivia joined the St Nicholas School Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SBAT) program, attracted by the chance to combine classroom learning with hands-on experience in a real early learning environment.
“I could get practical work experience while staying in school.”
While working towards her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Olivia gained far more than a qualification. She built valuable relationships with educators, children and families, developed confidence in her skills, and gained a firsthand understanding of how early learning services operate day to day.
Those experiences sparked a passion for the profession and laid the foundation for a career that continues to thrive today.
After completing the program, Olivia remained with St Nicholas, taking on new opportunities as her skills and experience grew. Over time, her hard work and dedication saw her progress into an Assistant Director role at St Nicholas Early Education Singleton – a milestone that aligned perfectly with her career aspirations.
“It allowed me to stay with such an amazing company.”
Looking back, Olivia is proud of how far her journey has taken her. From her early days as a trainee to now helping lead a service, she says the experience has been incredibly rewarding.
“Seeing the work I did when I was younger and seeing it transform to being able to lead a whole service in a new community is quite spectacular to see.”
Today, Olivia loves being able to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families while supporting and mentoring fellow educators. For students considering a future in early childhood education and care, her advice is simple: take every opportunity to gain experience and build connections.
“Being able to get the practical skills and build the relationships while still studying is a great opportunity.”
The St Nicholas SBAT program allows Year 11 and 12 students from Catholic schools to work towards a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care while completing their HSC. Participants receive paid workplace training within a St Nicholas Early Education service and are supported every step of the way through dedicated mentoring and guidance from experienced educators.
For Olivia, the program opened the door to a career she loves. Her journey shows how combining study with real-world experience can provide a strong foundation for long-term success, growth and leadership.
Interested in exploring the SBAT pathway? Learn more about the program and the opportunities available at St Nicholas here.
