What's on in the Kitchen?

In the blink of an eye June rolled in and has rolled out and hello July!

Its been such a busy month in the kitchen with lots of activity on the stoves.....

Apprentices have spent most of the month working with meat and poultry with both blocks running during June.

During poultry students were challenged with a range of cookery methods (and who knew there could be so many to learn) including Barding, Stuffing, De boning, Rolling, Trussing, Poaching, Dry marinating, Sauteing, Grilling, Trimming, Wet marinating, Roasting, Brining, Stuffing, Stewing, Sous vide, Soaking and Deep frying.

The end result being a delicious range of dishes including

  • Chicken Galantine
  • Butterflied Cajun Quail
  • Coq au Vin 
  • Chicken Liver Pate 
  • Roast Chicken with sage & onion stuffing 
  • Duck leg stew
  • Sous Vide Buttermilk Chicken Breast
  • Karaage Japanese Fried Chicken 

Meat on the other hand made us contemplate where meat comes from and the vast range of beasts that form part of most carnivores diets including beef, lamb, kangaroo, pork, goat, and rabbit. If we include the theory of consuming the entire beast then lets also include offal and if you consider other parts of the world then the list will continue to grow.

The meat debate touches on deep philosophical, scientific, and emotional issues. It's controversial because it challenges people's values—how we treat animals, care for the planet, nourish ourselves, and honor our traditions.

Our menu for this unit of training kicked off in Austria with a very traditional Veal Cordon Bleu and then popped into France for Filet De Boeuf au Medere et Champignons, swung across to Argentina for Sous Vide Lamb Rack, Mint Chimichurri and landed back in Australia for Marinated Kangaroo skewers.

Check out the eat with your eyes deliciousness of our results from our recent Prepare Asian Cooked Dishes ..... my personal favourite being the bao buns!

Hills Diverse Support coffee program

A photo showing a group of HITsa students

HITsa was recently approached by Hills Diverse Support (HDS) to provide an introduction to coffee program for their clients. We are now partnering in the delivery of a bespoke coffee program that provides each participant with an opportunity to learn in a supportive environment at HITsa Mt Barker, gaining practical experience and skills in HITsa's espresso coffee training room. The team from HDS have been working collaboratively with HITsa trainer Ross to ensure that each participant receives the unique support that they require to achieve their individual goals.

A photo of poster of Business Awards
A poster for the business awards 2025

Brooke's Journey into Early Childhood Education

Returning to study after years away can feel like a big leap—especially when you’re a parent. For Brooke, a mum of two, enrolling in a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care with HITsa was a step toward turning her passion for working with children into a rewarding career.

“Since having my kids, I’ve enjoyed playing with and teaching them, which is what inspired me to pursue a career in early childhood education,” Brooke shares. “I hadn’t studied since high school, and I’d been a stay-at-home mum for almost six years, so it all felt very new.”

Despite those initial nerves, Brooke quickly found her footing. “The trainers were very reassuring and knowledgeable. They answered all my questions and made me feel supported every step of the way.”

The blend of in-person classes and flexible online learning made a big difference. “I was able to complete the course in a way that suited my lifestyle. The flexibility really helped me balance study and family.”

Brooke not only completed her Certificate III—she’s already taken the next step. “I had a goal to finish my Certificate III and then jump straight into my Diploma, which I’ve now done. I’ve enjoyed learning new things and building relationships with the children during my placement. It’s been so rewarding.”

To others considering a similar path, Brooke offers simple but heartfelt advice: “I’d highly recommend studying through HITsa, my experience was so positive, and it’s definitely worth taking that first step.”

Student Placement Check-In: Emma & Dot

This week, we checked in with two of our Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Mount Gambier students, Emma and Dot, to see how things are going with their placements.

Emma's Placement Update
Emma has been on placement in a childcare centre for the past six weeks and is absolutely loving it. She’s been working closely with the 2–3-year-old age group and has already formed some wonderful connections with the children. One memorable moment she shared was when a young boy unexpectedly dashed into a mud puddle—splattering Emma and a few other children in the process! While the children were quickly changed into their spare clothes, Emma had to spend the rest of the day in her muddy pants. Despite the mess, she took it in stride and saw the humour in the situation.

Emma has really enjoyed putting what she’s learned at HITSA into practice and is discovering just how unpredictable (and rewarding) working with toddlers can be. As she put it, “You can have all the plans in the world, but if a two-year-old doesn’t want to do it, they won’t!”

Dot's Exciting Start Ahead
Dot is eagerly counting down the days until she starts her own placement in two weeks. Working with children has always been her dream, and she’s feeling excited and ready to begin. With a positive attitude and growing confidence, Dot is looking forward to applying her learning in a real-world environment and embracing the challenges that come with it.

Enrol Now – Mount Gambier

CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

*If eligible for subsidised training, a non-refundable $550 student co-contribution is payable on enrolment. Fee for Service available for those not eligible for Government funded training.

  • Flexible delivery combines online learning with 1 day a week face-to-face training (complete in 22 face-to-face training days - 5 weeks full time equivalent + 160 hours of work placement)
  • HITsa secures work placement for all students
  • Funded by the State Government through the Subsidised Training List (eligibility criteria applies) *

HITsa Approved to Deliver More First Nations Fee Free Training

A photo of a hitsa student and trainer

The HITsa Team are proud to announce our approval to deliver further Fee Free First Nations Training including

  • CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
  • CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support
  • CHC32015 Certificate III in Community Services

Students will attend face-to-face training sessions at their local HITsa site with the support of the HITsa Wellbeing Team and Tauondi Aboriginal College Mentors.

Register Now as places are limited Course Application - Fee Free TAFE -Tranche 2 First Nations

Student Testimonial

Jeremy enrolled with HITsa into the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability).

He has now successfully completed his qualification and we were excited to issue his certificate.

"I really enjoyed undertaking my certificate III in disability at HITsa. It was in a relaxed yet professional environment and I found all the trainers to be excellent. 

I highly recommend their services. Thanks, Jeremy"

Two new Partnership Announcements!

Naracoorte Early Learning Centre

HITsa Training and Employment is thrilled to welcome Naracoorte Early Learning Centre as our newest partner in supporting student placements in early childhood education and care.

Based in the heart of the Limestone Coast, Naracoorte Early Learning Centre is known for its commitment to high-quality early childhood education, with a strong emphasis on developmentally appropriate learning, family engagement, and child safety.

BEYOND Early Learning Mt Gambier

BEYOND Early Learning is known for its innovative, child-centred approach that places wellbeing, creativity, and connection at the heart of early learning. Their beautiful Mt Gambier centre provides an inspiring environment where children thrive—and now, where HITsa students can learn, grow, and gain hands-on experience alongside passionate professionals.

Welcome aboard!

Fresh ideas for inclusive learning

At the end of June, Julie, Fleur and Renee headed to Sydney to take part in the 2025 Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Symposium. The event ran over two days and brought together educators, trainers and specialists who are passionate about making learning more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

The theme this year -” Navigating authentic assessment and learning in a digital world - was a perfect fit for the work we do at HITsa. Across keynote presentations, hands-on workshops and networking sessions, our team picked up lots of new ideas about designing training that works for all kinds of learners, including those with diverse needs.

Some of the topics covered included:

  • Developing flexible learning resources that give students more choice in how they engage
  • Supporting neurodiverse learners in training and assessment
  • Using technology to break down barriers to participation
  • Rethinking how we design assessments so everyone has a fair chance to show what they know

Julie, Fleur and Renee came back inspired and excited to share what they learned. Over the coming months, they’ll be working with the team to explore how we can bring more UDL strategies into our courses and continue building a learning environment where every student feels supported to succeed.

We’re proud to keep learning and growing together!

Ready Set Go: Build Your Future with the Employability Skills Set

Are you ready to take the next step toward employment? No matter the industry or role, there are essential workplace skills that every employee needs to succeed – and HITsa Training and Employment is here to help you build them.

The Employability Skill Set focuses on the fundamental skills that can open doors to job opportunities. Whether your entering the workforce for the first time, returning after a break, or changing careers, this training is designed to boost your readiness for employment.

Employers across all industries look for candidates with a strong foundation in:

  • Soft skills – such as communication, problem solving, teamwork and adapabiity. These are often seen as more valuable than technical skills, particularly in entry-level roles
  • Technical skills – aligned with your chosen employment pathway
  • Digital skills – increasingly essential as most modern workplaces use technology in day-to-day operations

If you’re unable to work well with others, struggle with communication, or find it hard to adapt to change, it can affect your ability to thrive in the workplace. The pandemic disrupted many people’s opportunities to develop or practice these skills, making training more important than ever.

HITsa’s Ready, Set, Go Employability Skills program is delivered in a supportive group setting that encourages collaboration, practical learning, and confidence building. The course covers:

  • Time management and organisation
  • Effective communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Workplace health and safety
  • Introduction to business software applications

This course not only enhances your job-readiness – it helps you grow your confidence and gives you practical tools to take into any workplace

Start date: 7 July

Location: HITsa Clarance Gardens, 353 Cross Road Clarence Gardens

Cost: $95.00 per enrolment (government subsidised – eligibility criteria apply)

Spots are still available, so don’t miss your chance to kickstart your employment journey

Click here to enquire and take the first steps toward your future!

New Front Office look at Clarence Gardens

Last week the front office at Clarence Gardens underwent a transformation and both Frances and Karen have upgraded work spaces offering more privacy and improved layout. As a result of the better use of space, the team was able to welcome Tristan to the Reception area. He is our friendly face greeting students on arrival and directing them to their classrooms.

We're really pleased with the result.

DateSiteCourse
07.07.2025Mount GambierPrepare and Serve Espresso Coffee
07.07.2025SalisburyBasic Gaming (CBS^ Approved)
10.07.2025Clarence GardensProvide responsible service of alcohol
14.07.2025SalisburyProvide responsible service of alcohol
16.07.2025SalisburyPrepare and Serve Espresso Coffee
21.07.2025Mount BarkerProvide responsible service of alcohol
23.07.2025Clarence GardensBasic Gaming (CBS^ Approved)
23.07.2025SalisburyProvide First Aid
28.07.2025SalisburyFood Safety Supervision skill set
28.07.2025Clarence GardensPrepare and Serve Espresso Coffee
29.07.2025SalisburyProvide responsible service of alcohol
30.07.2025SalisburyProvide responsible service of alcohol
31.07.2025Clarence GardensFood Safety Supervision skill set
Graduation Banner May 2025

CHC32015 Certificate III in Community Services

Matthew D

CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support

Suzanne AKara TCraig P
Shinae R

CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Brooke ESadiqa KGeorgia J
Kayla S

Certificate IV in Leadership and Management

Connor DAngela W