Ann-Michelle Warrener, a Partnership VCAL student, spent three weeks (including two weeks of school holidays) on SWL at Taylor’s Gully Childcare Centre in Stawell between the 25th of June and the 13th of July.

Ann-Michelle attended work placement as a part of her enrolment in Certificate III in Childcare through the University of Ballarat, Horsham, and VCAL Work Related Skills with LenZone! and Stawell Secondary College.

Ann-Michelle helped with meals, dressing and putting shoes on children and getting children settled into activities. She also had to complete a set of activities and assignments while on placement and undergo an observational assessment for her Certificate III in Childcare. These tasks were also included in her assessment for VCAL Work Related Skills.

‘The best part about placement was getting to know the children and staff’ Ann-Michelle said, ‘and having a good time. Nothing really bad happened, but I realised that it’s not all just playing with children.’

‘Childcare is really what I would like to do. I would recommend going on SWL to other students as placement gave me an inside look and some experience in the field that will help me to get a job.’

The staff at Taylor’s Gully were very impressed with Ann-Michelle’s ability and attitude, recommending that she apply for casual work. Ann-Michelle has since undergone a successful application and interview process and will be available for casual work at the centre.