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The Aurora Award is awarded to the finalist who has shown a remarkable aptitude and stands out amongst their peers. Kelly’s outstanding work, as someone who has been shaped by vocational education in a positive way and embraced the opportunities presented, secured her the Award.

As an ambassador for VET, Kelly says she was incredibly humbled to receive recognition for a job she absolutely adores.

“There were so many worthy nominations on the evening. I felt incredibly privileged to be named a winner,” says Kelly.

With over 20 years of nursing experience and 17 years working in VET in health and TAFE NSW, Kelly has a decorated career in both nursing and education.

As a member of the Educational Training Service Vocational Education and Training in Schools team, Kelly works with high school students to provide them an opportunity to obtain a Certificate III in Nursing or Allied Health whilst completing their HSC.

Her students have consistently attested to Kelly’s support being an important factor that helped them gain their qualification and, most importantly, transition competently and confidently into the workforce environment.

Impressively, more than 80% of Kelly’s students have successfully gained a permanent position within the District.

Kelly has developed quite a recipe for success and knows the secret to keeping her student’s motivated.

“There is nothing quite like getting hands on experience in a physical health environment. It’s one of the best ways to engage in learning and get a real sense of what health workers do.”

“It’s also about supporting students in their learning journey not only educationally, but psychosocially to foster holistic principles,” Kelly says.

“By developing a mindset of adult learning principles, students begin to develop a sense of ownership, self-direction, motivation and desire to achieve their own future goals and success.”

Congratulations Kelly on this remarkable achievement.