Pakenham local Erin Howe-Jones is being recognised as one of Australia’s best trainees after taking out a top honour in G8 Education’s prestigious 2022 National Trainee Awards.
Erin works at Greenwood Officer Early Learning Centre and was awarded the 2022 Certificate III Trainee of the Year Award for her outstanding commitment to educational excellence.
G8 Education is Australia’s second largest provider of quality early learning and care and holds the annual awards to recognise excellence in putting learning into practice and providing outstanding experiences for children and families.
Erin was selected from more than 70 trainees nominated nationally who pursued their studies through G8 over the past 12 months.
Also an accomplished martial artist, Erin applied the same dedication and discipline to her studies as she has to her sport.
“My studies to date have been challenging but also rewarding and I’ve found it very motivating to be learning and working at the same time,” she said.
“I am even planning on studying a Bachelor degree in early childhood education in the future.”
G8 Education chief executive Gary Carroll commended Erin on her commitment to educational excellence.
“Our National Trainee Awards showcase the dedication of our educators to their profession and celebrate the incredible role they play to create the foundations for lifelong learning for children in our care,“ Mr Carroll said.
“G8’s study pathways programs are amongst the best in the sector, providing well-supported opportunities from school-based traineeships through to Bachelor scholarships.
“Erin and all our nominees have shown exceptional commitment to growing their careers as early childhood educators and we’re exceptionally proud to honour their achievements.”
Erin has won a $1,500 bonus, access to an exclusively tailored professional development course through early education and care consultancy Semann & Slattery, and a $150 gift card from Australian Apprentice Network Provider MEGT.
G8 Education encourages all eligible team members to develop their careers through its Study Pathways Program, which includes payment of course fees, rostered study time, mentoring and continuing support.
To learn more, visit careers.g8education.edu.au/grow-with-us/
