Meet Sarah – Individual Support Graduate

Fifteen years ago, Sarah Filson and her family made the big move to relocate from the States to the sugar capital of the Far North: Mossman. As her three children settled into their new school and her husband began work, Sarah spent time caring for animals in the town’s vet clinics. But after a few years, Sarah wanted to see if there were other types of work she might be suited to.

“I wanted to try something different and even though I didn’t have the relevant experience, I started in an admin role in tourism.” says Sarah.

After a few years of working in admin, Sarah began thinking about what her next move would be. A few friends put forward the idea of working in the care industry.

“When I considered it a bit more, I knew I needed something I could really put my energy in to, something that was fulfilling. Through the encouragement of a friend I put my name forward to one of the local aged care service providers.”

Sarah was working by Christmas and while grateful for the job she wanted to ensure she had the right skills in place to manage vulnerable people. After a friend recommended Far North Training & Consultancy’s Certificate III in Individual Support program it didn’t take Sarah long to enrol. She started the course in November 2019.

“This type of care needs qualified workers. You need to know what you’re doing when you’re working with people who have diabetes or have suffered from a stroke. I wanted to know how to manage their needs as best as possible, not only on a physical level but mentally and emotionally,” said Sarah.

Sarah said the course absolutely met her expectations in terms of building her confidence when dealing with people who are vulnerable and have specific requirements.

“The course introduced me to likeminded people who were determined to provide the best care for patients – some were already employed in the industry, like me, while others wanted a career change,” explained Sarah.

“I liked being able to bounce ideas off the others in the class – the camaraderie is so important, especially when it’s been a while since you last studied!”

“I feel the qualification has also provided me with an advantage in terms of employability.”

Once Sarah completed the Certificate III in Individual Support, she went on to further her education with a Certificate IV in Disability.

“I really wanted to commit to knowing as much as possible, so the Certificate IV in Disability was the next logical step for me.”

After only one unit of study, Far North Training & Consultancy had to make the switch to remote learning as restrictions were introduced due to coronavirus. With three kids studying at home it wasn’t easy but Sarah was determined to make it work.

“I’d finish work for the day and would have to come home and study. Our trainer was great. She would Skype with some of the students if they needed help and was responsive to any questions. She’s an extrovert so the way she teaches is fun and her energy was so motivating.”

Today, Sarah holds two qualifications, having successfully completed her Certificate IV in Disability and says she feels she has chosen the right career path. Nowadays her schedule sees her start at 9am working in her client’s home where the focus is on personal care.

“It can be hard because a home isn’t set up the same as an aged care facility but I like the challenge of being able to work with what you’ve got – it’s fun for me – and both courses prepared me for that scenario. You really have to watch yourself with the lifting and health and safety side of things.”

“I’ve definitely made the right move. I’m really happy having such a rewarding job where I feel like I’m giving back. I love it.”