Phil’s journey from labourer to mentor

Phil is currently completing a Fee-Free TAFE Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) course at TAFE Queensland’s Kingaroy campus, aiming for a future career in mentoring young people.

The two-day per week commitment will see him finished within six months and skilled to work with at-risk and vulnerable people of all ages.

“I enrolled in the course to take on a new challenge, and in particular, to share my knowledge with the youth,” Phil began.

Phil has previously contracted as a labourer over many years and holds a position as board member with a local Indigenous organisation.

Now living in Wondai, Phil travels to the Kingaroy campus on Mondays and Tuesdays to complete his course in person.

“I enjoy the class because it’s face-to-face — and the group discussions have definitely been the highlight. Everything you need is here,” Phil shared.

“My teacher (Chris Congoo) is also always willing to assist me — even when it got hard — like with the mental health unit — he inspired me to finish it and helped me through it,” Phil continued.

TAFE Queensland’s Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) course has been designed to give students the core skills to manage personal stressors in the workplace, and to work with people from a range of backgrounds, while gaining the communication skills required for working in community services settings.

TAFE Queensland’s community services educators, like Kingaroy-based Chris Congoo, possess industry qualifications backed by years of experience working in hands-on roles supporting individuals, families and communities.

In his role teaching the Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) and Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention (CHC40321) courses, Chris is dedicated to equipping his students with the knowledge and skills to address the diverse needs of their clients.

“My goal is to teach the necessary skills within the community services field and I’m also trying to show students that learning itself can be rewarding,” said Chris.

“I want them to consider learning as a reward, and that these courses and job outcomes will provide students the opportunity to interact with people in a way they never have before.”

Encouraged by Chris, Phil is already looking to his future. He is currently in touch with a group home in Cherbourg, and is focused on securing a position there, saying, “My ideal job will see me working with Indigenous young people in the South Burnett region.”

And Phil’s advice for others considering studying with TAFE Queensland?

“Go for it!” encouraged Phil.