Melissa, a mature-aged career professional with many years’ experience in the retail sector presented to the VU Polytechnic Skills and Jobs Centre in early 2019. An experienced and competent retail-store manager, Melissa felt she had achieved all she could within her field and enquired about her potential in a new career. After one-on-one career counselling and an extensive evaluation of her skills, interests and goals, Melissa decided to undertake a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment with the ultimate intention of becoming a retail trainer. This was an immense challenge for Melissa who had very little previous formal education. Nevertheless, she enrolled in the course at VU Polytechnic in mid-2019 and undertook study whilst still working in her retail job, completing her qualification in June 2020. Not only has Melissa reported a great deal of personal satisfaction and pride at overcoming her anxiety about studying, as a ‘star pupil’ she was requested by her instructor to assist other VUP students in a volunteer capacity following the completion of her course. With further assistance from the VU Polytechnic Skills and Jobs Centre to develop an effective resume, Melissa is now actively seeking employment in her new career.
“During my many years of retail experience as a store manager my role was to observe and advise staff in all areas required to complete tasks and/or job duties. Completing a course in Training and Assessment has really opened my eyes to understand how I can better instruct candidates in their industry and help them to develop knowledge and skills. I am excited about my future job prospects as I enter a new career.”
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