Around a month ago, Emma Ikin received an interesting email.
While working two jobs – one as a Trainer with our team at AETS (Australian Employment and Training Solutions), and the other as a Working with Children officer at Rose Bay High School – the education professional found out that she had been shortlisted for the 2019 Tasmanian Training Awards’ Trainer of the Year Award.
The award recognises the achievements and dedication of trainers providing high-quality training and is awarded yearly by Skills Tasmania, Department State of Growth. More than that, the Awards show a commitment to the development of high-quality vocational education and training in Tasmania.
“I was jumping out of my skin, I was so excited!
“I’d initially nominated one of my students for an award when my manager Kerrie decided to nominate me for a teaching award.
“More than anything, it’s just lovely to be acknowledged for my work,” Emma shared.
Emma’s road to success was borne out of a passion for developing community connections and sharing her educational expertise, which started from a young age.
She gained an Advanced Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and spent 22 years working in the field which included eight years in the early childhood profession, completing a Certificate IV in Education Support and an additional eight years working with students with additional needs.
Following on from the plethora of the early childhood and education experience she held, she completed a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment which led her to her work as a Trainer at AETS.While working to deliver AETS’ Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Emma also provides support to Rose Bay High School where she provides an Inclusion Support Program and Working With Children class.
Not one to be complacent, in her spare time, Emma dedicates herself to the Tasmanian board of the ECA – Early Childhood Australia - where she helps to identify issues and priorities for state and national action, and influence policies concerning young children.
“Working with people and children is my passion.
“I find my role rewarding and I use the success of my students as a key to my motivation and dedication,” Emma shared.
As part of the Award nomination process, Emma was shortlisted as a finalist and was then interviewed by a panel of experts to assess her knowledge and capability in the education and training fields.
“During my interview, I explained my education style – my pedagogy – and how I deliver my training.
“It’s usually indicative of the group I’m delivering training to, and I try and adapt to their needs and different learning styles.
“Each group – and even each individual – is different.
“I’m very passionate about inclusion and making links in our profession,” she shared.
Within Hobart, Emma has made headway within the training industry by developing strong relationships with childcare centres. Her interpersonal skills have given AETS an industry advantage by encouraging childcare centres to host placements that more often than not lead to employment outcomes for learners.
She’s now delivering AETS’ third Childcare course which is the second course being delivered by our training organisation in Hobart.
“I see a lot of jobactive clients coming into the Childcare course without drive or passion for working, not just in childcare, but in any job, really.
“They join our course and learn about the profession and I see a spark developing.
“For me, that’s the ultimate challenge – and satisfaction – seeing disengaged job seekers find their passion for sustainable work within the Childcare industry.
“It’s what I work for.”
FURTHER INFORMATION
The 2019 Tasmanian Training Awards are announced on September 6. PeoplePlus and AETS wish Emma all the best for her award and look forward to seeing her progress in her profession.
To find out more about the awards, visit www.skills.tas.gov.au/trainingawards
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