Love for educating little minds" leads Taree mum to CQUni"

CQUniversity's Bachelor of Education (Primary) has proven to be the perfect fit for Alyce Allport whose world revolves around children as a childcare worker and mum to two young kids.

"It was always an ambition of mine to go to university. In school' I had an interest in sports and applied for a Bachelor of Sports Science but after completing my Higher School Certificate (HSC) back in 2005 I did not get the marks I needed'" Mrs Allport explained.

"My career path lead in a different direction and it wasn't until I had children of my own that I developed an interest in child development.

"Nothing is more rewarding when a child shows enthusiasm and joy in an experience or activity you have provided for them and successfully achieving the outcomes you have set for them."

More than 15 years later' CQUniversity is helping Mrs Allport to achieve her university dream.

"It was a friend who encouraged me to investigate a career in early childhood and care. I completed my diploma through TAFE which then led me to want to work with school-age children.

"This is where my interested developed into a passion' I loved every minute of educating little minds and found a sense of fulfilment and joy in working within this industry'" she said.

"University was always at the back of my mind whilst studying for my diploma. Once I had finished' I took some time to investigate university options and who could deliver the best support as I would be taking on university study in an online capacity."

The Forster resident lives 40 minutes outside of Taree with access to the Taree Universities Campus' a partner of CQUniversity' which she said supports her distance education by combining essential support and learning spaces.

"My experience with CQU has been nothing but positive. Having a campus close by gives a sense of support and guidance in terms of getting through a degree.

"From the process to enrolment and applying for my degree to working through units and attending online classes has been such a stress-free process. I was a bit apprehensive at first about studying online' but CQU has made my online study journey easier'" she said.

"I know that if I am struggling with an assessment or if I need some clarification with a unit' I can go and speak to someone face to face or call and speak to one of the staff who I have established a relationship with during my time at the university.

To further support her studies' Mrs Allport received the Mid Coast Council 2021 Scholarship' valued at $7 466 to put towards her tertiary study costs. She is one of the first local recipients of a new university scholarship scheme.

"It was quite a shock to receive this scholarship' but I am very grateful as it will help in assisting me in purchasing resources and when I need to be off work to do my placements for my degree.

"It is a constant juggle between study' work and being a mum' so alongside my scholarship support I am extremely lucky to have the support of my husband without whom' I don't think any of this would be possible.

"I am an extremely ambitious and driven person who has a passion for educating little minds and have found a sense of fulfilment and joy working within this industry. This makes the juggle worthwhile' knowing that I am making a difference and an impact in children's lives through the way I deliver education to them."