STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
From Uncertainty to University, with Tamworth Community College
There’s an undeniable power in a story of transformation, resilience, and success—a story like Gabby Siddons. After completing Year 12, uncertainty loomed large over Gabby's path forward. With aspirations clouded by indecision, she considered a gap year as the next step. Little did she know, employment at Parry Logistics and a fortuitous partnership with Tamworth Community College (TCC) would reshape her educational journey.
"I was unsure of what to do after leaving school," Gabby shares. "But the Certificate III in Business Administration at TCC turned out to be much better than just completing Year 12. It was the stepping stone I needed."
With guidance from TCC’s approachable and knowledgeable trainers, who Gabby fondly describes as “friends who help you,” she unearthed a hidden passion for Payroll—a segment of the course that not only piqued her interest but also charted a clear course for her career. Today, Gabby proudly processes payroll in her workplace along with other tasks, showcasing skills that have earned her employer's appreciation and support.
Despite her initial reservation towards subjects like Workplace Health & Safety (WHS), Gabby's dedication never wavered. Her fortnightly sessions at TCC turned into seeds of confidence, blossoming into her bold decision to pursue an Accounting degree at Charles Sturt University.
Gabby's trainer, Julie Bevitt, reflects on her trajectory with admiration: "Gabby's hard work radiated in her assignments and eagerness to apply what she learned. Observing her growth and enthusiasm for her new responsibilities was a gratifying experience for all of us at TCC."
Gabby's experience exemplifies TCC's commitment to fostering talent and enabling transitions—forging pathways to further employment, education and opportunities. And the ability to earn while you learn only sweetens the pot. "TCC is not just cheaper than university; it gives you skills that make a difference in a flexible way," Gabby insists.
Her final message to those standing at life's crossroads resonates with genuine endorsement: "If you’re uncertain about your future after Year 12, you can't go wrong with a traineeship completed in partnership with Tamworth Community College."
First Aid for Mums & Bubs,
Bumbira Arts & Culture Program and TCC
“The First Aid course was a thought we had at Bumbira Art & Culture Program for the women who attend our Mums & Bubs program, especially for first-time mothers. We also offered the course to women who attend other programs through the Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council to help them with employment opportunities. We thought this would be a good course for those wanting to get employment in childcare”.
“The outcome of this course was very beneficial to the women who attended. They have gained confidence in themselves to be first aid officers and to deal with emergencies with young children. The knowledge they took away from the course was amazing. I highly recommend this course to anyone wanting to get their First Aid certificate”.
Cassie - Project Officer, Bumbira Art & Culture Program - Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council
Meet Grahame,
LLN, Vocational Pathways & Computing Student
For this reason, he initially enrolled at Tamworth Community College.
Over time Grahame improved his LLN skills and developed the confidence that helped him to participate in the televised SBS Series Lost for Words in 2022. Lost for Words follows eight everyday Australians that struggle to read and write enter into a nine-week education program run by two expert adult literacy teachers, with a bespoke approach centered around real-life challenges. In November 2022, Grahame also participated in a discussion panel at the CCA 2022 Sydney Conference.
Meet Sharlene,
Certificate I in Access to Vocational Pathways Student
"Last year I decided that I would like to get a job in retail, and thought about doing a Certificate II in Business course. I needed to improve my reading and writing as well and I decided to go the Tamworth Community College to see if they would be able to help me.
Late last year I started a short course with one of the Trainer’s who I saw each week, and early this year I enrolled into a Certificate I in Access to Vocational Pathways. I completed the course in May 2021 and was very excited to complete this.
At the same time as this I was going for my L’s, and being able to read better made it easier for me. I also volunteer at Liberty Foodcare and improving my reading and writing has helped me there as well.
I have really enjoyed my time with Tamworth Community College, all of the ladies in the office are helpful and happy, and my Trainer has been very supportive which made learning fun.”
Meet Carmen,
Customised Student Support
“I was looking to further my qualifications to gain Certificate IV in Assessment and Training in Coffs Harbour but unfortunately at the time, there were no available courses. I enrolled online to complete my studies and found this extremely difficult not having a trainer present to help me. I phoned around for support locally but nothing was offered my way until I made contact with Tamworth Community College who came to the rescue!
I was overwhelmed by the support and interest from the college to assist me in the completion of my studies. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience; I felt a huge weight being lifted off my shoulders at the end of the day knowing my studies were completed with the guidance, help, and support from a very knowledgeable and experienced trainer.
I highly recommend the Tamworth Community College to anyone interested in pursuing future studies. My trainer was exceptionally professional, providing the utmost support, advice, and encouragement.
From the bottom of my heart thank you so very much to all involved in giving me the opportunity to complete my studies with full confidence and understanding.”