Bernice celebrated for shaping future chefs

TAFE Queensland cookery teacher Bernice Sildatke has been named the state winner of the TAFE at School Educator Excellence Awards, honouring her dedication to training Bundaberg’s future chefs.  

Recognised for her standout commitment to supporting and inspiring students as they step into the hospitality industry, Bernice has set a high standard in vocational education and training.

Bernice was honoured by the accolade, but said it was not about her – that the greatest reward was getting to do what she now loves.

“I'm just so grateful. I completed a TAFE apprenticeship myself, and I absolutely loved it. I have used these skills and learning to now become a TAFE teacher and give back to the students and share my experiences and give the best possible opportunities,” Bernice said.

“Early on, I never wanted to be a head chef or a sous chef or even a teacher, yet here I am – I now do all the things I said I didn't think I'd like to do, and I'm absolutely loving it, to be honest. It's been a great journey of growth for myself and every year I feel like I'm growing as a person. I decided to shift my focus from burning myself on pans to passing on my knowledge and skills to my students, which is a far more rewarding,” she said.

Responsible for delivering the Certificate II in Cookery (SIT20421) to TAFE at School students at TAFE Queensland’s Bundaberg campus, Bernice said she takes immense pride in showing her students their full potential.

“These students that are coming to us and showing signs of interest in our industry – they’re our future! It’s my job to help them reach their potential,” Bernice said.

“They don't always know which pathway to take or what options are available to them. For me, it’s about guiding them along the way – showing them what they can achieve and helping them navigate what outcome it is that they want and how are we can help support them to get there,” she said.

Bernice was recognised for her efforts for not only building relationships with local industry and creating amazing opportunities for her students, but also for going the extra mile, spending extra time with those that showed passion. Among her standout achievements, Bernice has provided her students over the last three years with the chance to gain valuable experience at Bundaberg’s biggest event—the Taste Bundaberg Festival—as well as a closed masterclass with celebrity chef, Colin Fassnidge. She has also organised for numerous other celebrity chefs to attend her kitchen and give masterclasses that will inspire young students, and when she is not working these amazing culinary events, Bernice is attending and gaining knowledge to pass back onto to her students.

These unique hands-on experiences have been life-changing for many students, enabling them to work with the superstars of their industry and providing them with new opportunities to showcase their talents and forge their own industry connections.

“At the beginning of the year, the students are nervous, but enthusiastic and willing to learn. It can be daunting—it’s a big kitchen and there's lots of different things that are all new to them—so for me it’s about making them feel welcome in their new environment,” Bernice said.

“I’m very flexible in my approach to teaching and use many methods to engage with the students from day one. I provide them the tools to put them on the right path, so they have the best possible outcomes available to them. I want them to go home at the end of the day saying, ‘That was awesome’, or that it was “fire”, which is a new word Gen Z have taught me. See? I never stop learning!” she said.

“I love seeing how far the students come from day one to finishing their certificate – from the shy, non-communitive student to the confident cookery student shouting orders in the kitchen. Their growth and achievement make me immensely proud.”

According to Jobs Queensland employment opportunities in the food and beverage sector are set to grow state-wide by 10.3 per cent over five years, with a 19.7 per cent increase projected for chefs alone.