Helping Others While Building a Career in Education

Six months into her traineeship at Beveridge Primary School, Sarah Huggins has already found that she is passionate about helping others.

Working alongside the school’s PE teachers, Sarah plays an important role in supporting both staff and students. From setting up equipment and assisting with activities, to providing one-on-one support for students and helping manage minor injuries, no two days are the same.

“I help the PE teachers with classes, set up equipment, support the kids when they need help and make sure everyone can be involved in the activities.”

For Sarah, the traineeship offered something she was looking for after finishing school – the chance to gain hands-on experience while figuring out her future.

One of her high school careers teachers suggested she look into a traineeship, believing it would be a great fit. After discussing the opportunity with her brother, who works as a personal trainer, Sarah decided to give it a go.

“I did Sport and Recreation in Years 11 and 12 and a lot of what I’m doing now is similar to what I enjoyed at school. Once I looked into it, I thought this is something I really enjoy.”

Beveridge Primary is one of Victoria’s fastest-growing schools. The school has expanded from just 65 students in 2006 to around 880 students today, with enrolments expected to reach 1,000 in 2027. Supported by more than 100 staff across two campuses, the school now operates a dedicated Prep and Year 1 campus at Arrowsmith Drive while continuing to grow alongside the rapidly developing Beveridge community.

Having previously worked with AFL SportsReady trainees at another school, Principal Christine Cole understood the value they can bring to both schools and young people exploring future career pathways.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for someone who’s passionate about sport and education to come into a school environment and really see what the role is like.

“It’s a pathway that allows young people to gain experience, build confidence and work out whether education is the right fit for them before committing to further study.”

Now halfway through her traineeship, Sarah is gaining valuable workplace experience while completing her qualification.

While she’s still considering her long-term career options, the experience has already opened doors.

“My supervisor has spoken to me about becoming an Education Support worker next year, either in the classroom or supporting PE permanently. That’s something I’d really like to do.”

Christine has watched Sarah’s confidence grow significantly throughout the first six months of the traineeship.

“When Sarah first started, she was a lot quieter. Now you see her leading activities, helping students, running bike shed duty in the mornings and actively participating in PE classes.

“She’s really come out of her shell and become much more confident working with the students.”

According to Christine, Sarah has quickly become a valued member of the school community.

“She’s been fantastic from day one. She’s reliable, takes pride in her work, has built great relationships with the students and staff. She’s always willing to help.

“Our PE teachers really value having her there. Whether it’s setting up equipment, helping run events or supporting students, having that extra person takes pressure off staff and allows things to run more smoothly.”

The most rewarding part of the traineeship for Sarah is the opportunity to make a difference each day.

“The teachers tell me how helpful it is having me and that they couldn’t do some things without the extra support.

“I just love helping people.”

For Christine, that willingness to help is exactly what makes traineeships so valuable.

“Traineeships give young people the chance to experience a workplace before making big career decisions.

“Sometimes people think they know what a job will be like, but the reality can be very different. A traineeship allows them to see the day-to-day environment and decide whether it’s the right pathway for them.”

For other young people who may be unsure about what comes next after school, Sarah believes a traineeship is a great way to explore different career pathways before committing to further study.

“A traineeship lets you see what a job is actually like in real life and gain experience while you’re learning.”

Through her traineeship at Beveridge Primary School, Sarah is discovering a career pathway that could shape her future while making a positive impact on the students and staff around her. And if her first six months are any indication, she’s already become an important part of a school community that continues to grow year after year.