Kelvin’s courtroom career sets the bar in the classroom

Following a successful career as admitted solicitor and administrative law business owner, Kelvin transitioned to teaching.

“I was attracted to working at TAFE Queensland because of its inclusiveness; offering pathway opportunities to young people and challenging mature learners seeking to pivot their careers,” Kelvin said.

Plus teaching provided an opportunity to combine his two interests – Australian law and vocational education.

“Positive student outcomes will always get me out of bed in the morning.”

“I was lifted last term when one of our quieter students told me that we inspired her to continue with further education by the ‘buzz’ she got by learning more about the law,” he explained.

“I also enjoy working with the other dedicated educators and TAFE Queensland support staff,” Kelvin added.

For Kelvin his legal and justice services career has been varied, challenging, and enabled him to work with people from a range of backgrounds.

“I’ve had the opportunity to advise multi-national companies on government decision-making powers, as well as counselling domestic and international clients in judicial review litigation in the Federal Circuit Court, and merits review before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal,” he explained.

“I’ve also taught legal research methodology and business law at undergraduate and post-graduate level at Australian and international universities.”

Remaining industry-current is an important aspect of Kelvin’s teaching role at TAFE Queensland.

“I regularly attend conferences and seminars with close links to industry in my experience as a lawyer,” Kelvin said.

His advice for people who are thinking about legal studies or considering a career in the legal system is to: “Read, read and read some more...”

“I have observed that students who engage with the content materials and participate in class on a regular basis hone their communication skills; translating immediately into the workplace,” Kelvin concluded.