Scholarship sees Alexandra thrive

Alexandra Hayes-Hatten first began her journey in vocational education and training in 2022, undertaking a Certificate I in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (AHC10120) under the Skilling for Queenslanders Program with her now employer, ECOllaboration – a local organisation that provides professional support in ecological and environmental services, environmental education, stakeholder liaison, and community development.

“I was working in pest management, but I’ve always loved native Australian flowers and wanted to break into conservation. So when I saw the ECOllaboration’s Facebook ad for the program, I applied and got the position,” Alexandra said.

“I had an amazing supervisor who was deeply passionate about conservation, and she inspired me to follow a similar path. And now I’m supervising the same program I started in – it’s a real full circle moment.”

Keen to continue developing her knowledge and skills, Alexandra enrolled in the Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management (AHC51120), balancing her studies with work as a bush regenerator at ECOllaboration five days a week.

“I really enjoyed being around like-minded people that wanted to pursue local conservation and learn about flora and fauna, as well as the industry connections we were able to make during the course,” Alexandra said.

“It really helped me develop the skills I needed to be able to do what I’d doing now.”

During her studies, Alexandra was successful in applying for a TAFE Queensland Scholarship, receiving $5000 to put towards her studies.

“I was supervising trainees at that time and I thought, ‘why not?’. I figured it was a good learning experience in writing applications,” Alexandra said.

“It gave me a chance to think about everything I’ve achieved and as a result, I have a lot of gratitude for my accomplishments,” she said.

“I was so happy when they told me I was a recipient – it really reinforced everything I’ve done and gave me that validation that I am deserving of recognition for my hard work.”

Fuelled by her own scholarships success and inspired by one of her former supervisors, who had previous won the Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year Award at the Queensland Training Awards, Alexandra then decided to submit a nomination for Vocational Student of the Year – a decision that has paid off, with the regional winner now progressing to the state final.

“I wanted to be able to say I’d accomplished that, and to show my trainees that putting yourself out there and taking risks can pay off. And it did!” she said.

“I’m dyslexic, so this proves that you can overcome barriers that you think may hold you back. I want to be a role model and leader for others who may be feeling lost, and show them what they can do if they set their mind to it.

“I love what I do. Having an on-ground impact and restoring the environment is so empowering. To clear weeds that are one day choking a tree, then come back in the years after to see birds living in it – it’s really fulfilling.”

TAFE Queensland scholarships are now open for applications until 30 September 2024 - giving 100 Australians the opportunity to create a better future through vocational education and training.

The TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program awards each recipient $5,000 to study any certificate III through to an advanced diploma or bachelor degree from over 60 campuses locations across Queensland or online.

TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer John Tucker said scholarships help cover the costs of course fees, textbooks and living expenses.

“We know the power vocational education and training has to change people’s lives and we want to help people fulfil their career potential regardless of their circumstances,” Mr Tucker said.

“First launched in 2015, the TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program has awarded over $3.05million in scholarships; helping more than 640 Queenslanders pursue their career goals,” he said.

There are two types of scholarships available, one being Merit scholarships aimed at supporting people who have demonstrated strong levels of achievement to advance their careers. The second are Access and Equity scholarships which are designed to help students who are battling social or financial hardship.

A recipient of an Access and Equity scholarship, Alexandra encouraged anyone considering applying to go for it.

“Don’t let the fear of not getting it hold you back because you never know what you’re stepping into when you open that door,” she said.

“It significantly helped me – taking on the cost of study is a hard decision, so this significantly helped bridge that gap, and made me feel like my efforts were recognised.”

To be eligible, applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident and must commence study in Semester 1, 2025 or be an existing TAFE Queensland first year apprentice at the time of submitting the application.

“Scholarships can be life-changing for students, and TAFE Queensland is incredibly grateful for the support of organisations who generously donate each year to the TAFE Queensland Foundation which funds our scholarships program,” Mr Tucker said. 

“This year, with support from organisations including RACQ, CPL – Choice Passion Life, Community Bank Samford part of Bendigo Bank, Exemplar Health, Microsoft, MEGT, Australian Refrigeration Council, Orro, Australian Maritime Safety Authority and Queensland Hydro who donate to the TAFE Queensland Foundation, we are helping 100 students to change their lives and achieve their career aspirations,” he said.    

With an average of 1000 applications received each year, Mr Tucker said he encourages anyone looking to start their career or make a career change to apply now.

“Whether you’re leaving school, considering a career change or looking to upskill, all Queenslanders are urged to apply,” he said.