Traineeships Help Build Networks to Make Dreams Come True

Former AFL SportsReady Victorian trainee, Kate Holmesby, is at the height of her career, working as Head of Gymnastics at Loreto Girls School. Kate believes achieving this dream role wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for the connections she made in her traineeship.

“The connections and networks I made in my traineeship opened so many doors of opportunity for me to work in this industry. That’s what helped me get my dream job.”

Kate completed a 12-month traineeship in 2010 at Salesian college and studied a Certificate III in Sport and Recreation.

“I had always wanted to work in sport and Uni wasn’t my thing. I really liked the idea that I could work full time and earn money whilst completing a qualification – it was just too perfect!”

“In my traineeship I worked as a Sports Assistant, working alongside the Head of Sport at the school. It was a great experience to be able to assist in keeping the sporting culture alive and help to implement new strategies along the way.”

Kate felt inspired by her traineeship experience and was certain this was the career she wanted to pursue.

“Salesian College are a fantastic school. They are very passionate about quality education and sports which motivated me to continue to work in this industry.”

Upon completion of her traineeship, Kate decided to travel around Europe and live in England for 18 months. She returned to Melbourne with new lessons and a new perspective and felt she was ready to start focusing on her career.

“I knew exactly what I wanted to do in my career, my traineeship allowed me to realise that. So when I returned I jumped straight back into coaching Gymnastics and eventually climbed by way to where I am now, Head of Gymnastics at a prestigious girls private school.”

“Not only did my traineeship allow me to realise I wanted to teach sports in the education sector, but the connections I made during my experience essentially led me to where I am today,” said Kate.

In her current role Kate is responsible for overseeing all Gymnastics, Aerobics and Specialist Dance programs at the school and is relishing every moment.

 “I absolutely love what I do. There are not many people who can sincerely say that. So I feel lucky that I come to work everyday with the same passion I did when I first started in the industry.”

“I can honestly say that where I am at the moment is the pinnacle (so far) of my career and I wouldn’t be here today without the AFL SportsReady traineeship program.”

To find out more about the diverse range of rewarding careers available through vocational education and training, and watch the real skills for real careers video, visit www.myskills.gov.au

#realskillsforrealcareers

Date: 21st of February

Image: Katle Homlesby

Author: Marissa Pagliarello