HITsa Newsletter

"From Nervous to Empowered: How One Student Found Their Calling in Childcare"

For many students, choosing a career path can feel overwhelming. But for one of our students, completing the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care was more than just gaining a qualification, it was a journey of self-discovery.

While studying, the student stepped into a real-world childcare setting for a 160-hour work placement. It was there, surrounded by curious minds, playful energy, and plenty of noise, that everything clicked.

“I was nervous at first and unsure if this was for me,” the student shared. “But once I started my placement and overcame my own doubts, I realized I had chosen the right course.”

The placement provided more than just practical skills. “I pushed through personal triggers, and over time, my confidence grew. Each week brought new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow, and working alongside supportive, experienced educators made it all so much easier.”

“I learned how to cope with routines, help children understand their emotions, and create fun and engaging activities. But more importantly, I learned that I’m capable.”

“Being in the childcare centre helped me see that this is where I belong. I found my purpose, and now I’m excited to keep learning and growing in this industry.”

To anyone considering a career in Early Childhood Education, the student offers this advice:

“If you want to work with children, go for it! Don’t doubt your abilities. It’s OK to be nervous; you’re entering a new world. But what a fulfilling one it is!”

What's on in the Kitchen?

We started the second half of the year with a BANG and so much happening within the kitchen space.

First we set up shop at the Adelaide Botanic High School with a super keen group of SACE students keen to develop cookery skills whilst still at school. Our trainer Emma has been delivering a Certificate II in Cookery which will run throughout the second half of this year allowing students to successfully complete the qualification by the end of the school year.

Then from out of the blue we kicked off another group of SACE students in partnership with Barkuma who provides a range of supports for people with disabilities. This program is also being delivered to school students with additional support in place to maximise successful outcomes for all. The training is running from our CBD location and will build confidence and skills as well as assist with the transition from High School to Work.

Pictures coming soon!!!!!

Finally HITsa ran a local skill set during the month and were thrilled to welcome some new students from Kokatha after our first graduate not only completed all the training but has now moved on to paid employment within BHP.

So who is Kokatha you ask...... well Kokatha Aboriginal Corporation (KAC) represents the Kokatha people in matters related to native title, business, and community development.

The Kokatha are an Aboriginal Australian people who are the traditional owners of a large area in the north of South Australia, including the land surrounding the Olympic Dam mine and the town of Roxby Downs. They are part of the Western Desert language group and are also known as the Kokatha Mula.

The KAC not only pay for students to attend the training but also organise transport to and from Adelaide and accommodation close to our kitchen which allows the students to focus on gaining entry levels skills to find sustainable employment upon completion.

Congratulations to both Melissa and Linda who not only created some fantastic dishes but smashed the training and finished a day early!

Indie School Intro to Espresso coffee course

Early July saw HITsa Salisbury hosting the Elizabeth Campus Indie School students in an Introduction to Espresso course. The groups were given a basic course on how to prepare and serve different types of coffee and other hot drinks.

The course has a practical focus and most of the time is spent giving the students a chance to use all the coffee making equipment. They are also encouraged to practice their customer service skills by taking orders and delivering coffee orders to other students and staff in the building.

The feedback received from the students was very positive. When asked what the best aspects of the training was, one student wrote: “trainer broke down tasks to make them easier to understand”; another wrote “the best aspects were the fact I got to learn how to use the machines”.

Here are some highlights from the day.

Evan and Jorja perfecting, pouring texturised milk into their coffees

Jorja proudly displaying her lovely latte

Community Services training back in Mt Barker!

CHC32015 Certificate III in Community Services training is now available in Mt Barker, with a new intake open now for enrolments. Are you passionate about helping others and making a real difference in your community?

This qualification equips you with the practical skills and knowledge to support individuals, families, and communities in need. You’ll learn about effective communication, working with diverse people, and providing person-centred support. Whether you’re looking to start your career or upskill, this course is designed to prepare you for roles such as community support worker, caseworker assistant, or client contact officer.

Eligibility and Funding
Government funding or subsidies may be available for eligible students. Contact us to discuss your options.

Enrol Today!
Take the first step towards a meaningful career. Call us on (08) 8375 2800 or visit www.hitsa.com.au to learn more and secure your spot.

Don’t wait—opportunities in community services are growing. Start your journey today!

Not sure about committing to a Certificate III? Call and talk to us about our newly added CHC22015 Certificate II in Community Services which may meet your training needs.

HITSA Mount Gambier Supports Disability Pride Month

On July 16th, HITSA Mount Gambier proudly took part as one of the sponsors of a Disability Pride Month event organised by KEFI Community Supports and MIND at the Bookmarked by KEFI library café. The event highlighted the experiences of individuals living with a disability, raising awareness about the everyday challenges they face.

It was a fantastic opportunity to speak with people considering a career in disability support. We shared how completing our Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) — a nationally recognised qualification — can open the door to a high-demand industry and help individuals launch a meaningful career making a lasting difference in the lives of people living with a disability.

We’re honoured to have supported this important initiative and to stand alongside organisations working toward a more inclusive future.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and the assessment process

As AI continues to become part of our training environment, we feel it is important to address the subject matter. Students who use AI to complete their assessments miss out on beneficial learning opportunities and do not develop the skills and knowledge required to gain vocational competency.

We aim to prepare all students to perform according to workplace standards and expectations, and as a result, AI generated work will not be accepted by HITsa as part of any assessment submissions.

We encourage our students to embrace their own capabilities and reach out for support when necessary.