STUDENT TESTIMONIALS AND STORIES

At 16, Shici moved from China to Australia to pursue her high school education. For five years, she lived with an Australian family, immersing herself in a new culture. This experience allowed her to embrace her true self, feeling understood and accepted like never before.

In Australia, Shici found the freedom to define herself beyond traditional frameworks, while still valuing her family's unwavering support. Her Buddhist faith's emphasis on inclusiveness and empathy inspired her to pursue a Bachelor of Community Services.

After completing her degree, Shici became a Child Protection Case Practice Support Worker with the Victorian State Government. Her role involves assisting children and families during visits and identifying potential risks to protect children. She finds immense fulfillment in making a meaningful impact on vulnerable children and families.

Shici aims to advance in her field, aspiring to become a Child Protection Practitioner, then an Advanced Practitioner, and eventually a Senior Practitioner.
Reflecting on her time at Acknowledge Education, Shici fondly remembers the unwavering support from her lecturers. Their patience and guidance were instrumental in her success, providing a strong foundation for her current role.

For aspiring students, Shici advises: Be enthusiastic and sincere about your profession and chosen career. It is incredibly rewarding to use your knowledge and skills to support society and families in need.

Ingrid feels she made the perfect choice by selecting Perth as her study destination among her campus options at Acknowledge Education. She fell in love with Perth’s beauty, safety, and vibrant atmosphere. She decided to complete her academic journey with an Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design to gain an international perspective on the industry and valuable knowledge of Australian codes and practices.

With a Civil Engineer mother and an Architect father, Ingrid always aspired to a career blending both fields. Drafting became her dynamic bridge between them. After her studies, Ingrid secured a position as a Civil Engineering Draftsperson at GRAF Australia, a plastic manufacturing company in Henderson, WA. GRAF Australia innovates in sustainable water solutions, capturing, treating, and repurposing water.

Ingrid's role includes:
• Securing product approvals with relevant authorities.
• Advising customers and distributors on installation, maintenance, and various technical information.
• Assisting hydraulic consultants and plumbers.
• Preparing civil engineering designs and schematic drawings.
• Using software tools and expert judgment to ensure compliance with standards and regulations.
• Addressing feedback, writing clarifications, and performing project sizing calculations.

She is proud to have achieved her academic goals and to be contributing to a more sustainable environment through her work. Ingrid advises aspiring students to maximize learning opportunities and invest in personal development. She finds that Australia offers a great work-life balance and aims to connect more with the community in the city she loves.

Ingrid's journey exemplifies the power of pursuing one's passion, thriving in new surroundings, and finding balance and satisfaction in both career and personal life.

Kapil's success in the hospitality industry is deeply rooted in his upbringing. His culture taught him, "Treat every guest who comes into your house with respect and care to the best of your ability." This philosophy has been the cornerstone of his professional journey.

Currently, Kapil works as a Restaurant Manager at one of the leading food chains, Hungry Jacks, in Western Australia. His roles and responsibilities include:
• Creating a guest-obsessed culture
• Leading a high-performing team
• Building the brand through effective business planning
• Managing the business to ensure restaurant profitability

Though satisfied with his current role, Kapil lives by the mottos "Focus on your goal" and "Keep moving forward." His ambition is to open his own franchise of the company he works for, transitioning from an employee to an entrepreneur within the next few years.

Kapil acknowledges that obstacles may arise along the way, but he remains steadfast in his determination. Reflecting on his education, he praises Acknowledge Education for having the best lecturers. Their real-life-based teachings have equipped him with the skills to tackle challenges effectively.

Kapil's journey highlights the impact of cultural values, dedication, and continuous learning. His story encourages others to pursue their goals with unwavering focus and resilience, demonstrating that with the right mindset and education, success is within reach.

As a migrant from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) background, Priyashani understands the profound challenges that youth from migrant and refugee backgrounds face when settling in Australia. Her personal experiences as a person of color have been instrumental in building rapport and fostering deep connections with these youth and their families. This bond allows her to genuinely appreciate their cultural customs, traditions, and nuances. Her background equips her with the empathy and cultural sensitivity necessary to support and advocate for these young individuals effectively.

Driven by a deep sense of purpose, Priyashani chose to work in the Community Services sector. She is currently employed at the Migrant Information Centre (Eastern Melbourne), where her responsibilities include:
• Providing one-on-one support through case management and counseling for disengaged or at-risk youth from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
• Developing and facilitating psychoeducational group programs for youth.
• Developing and delivering cultural competency training in schools and for service providers.
• Conducting risk assessments for young people facing complex challenges such as family violence, abuse, and mental health issues.
• Offering secondary consultations to schools and external service providers on issues faced by CaLD youth.

Priyashani's unwavering dedication to supporting marginalized communities and her determination to make a meaningful impact on their lives highlight the transformative power of community services. Confident in her choice to change careers, she looks forward to growing professionally and continuing to make a difference.

If you are committed to supporting marginalized communities and aspire to make a meaningful impact, studying community services will unlock numerous career opportunities for you.

Varun grew up in a family that instilled in him the values of resilience and adaptability, essential for success in life. His upbringing also emphasized cultural pride and identity, fostering a strong, close-knit bond with his family.

When Varun began his Bachelor of Community Services, he knew his passion lay in Family Services. Today, he is a dedicated Family Services Case Manager at the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA) in Wangaratta, regional Victoria. In this role, Varun works within an integrated family services team to support Aboriginal individuals and families referred to the program. He collaborates closely with clients, key partners, and stakeholders to provide comprehensive support to Aboriginal children and families, addressing their specific needs.

Varun offers two key pieces of advice to aspiring students: build a professional network through LinkedIn, and prioritize self-care. "Helping those in need can be draining and impactful; you must take care of yourself to effectively care for others," he says.

Varun never forgets the supportive student services at Acknowledge Education that helped him during his studies. The institution assisted him in finding suitable and meaningful placements, which led to the job he loves today. Beyond his educational achievements, Varun serves as a youth representative for the Victorian Multicultural Commission and recently joined the board of a local youth organization, NESAY, aiming to improve the lives of youth in the area.

Varun's future is bright in a region known for its beautiful natural surroundings, multicultural environment, and abundant work opportunities. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and dedication.

Celso's educational journey has been remarkable since his arrival in 2017, beginning with an English course. Determined to advance his career in Project Engineering, which he started in his home country, he enrolled in the Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design at Acknowledge Education.

Choosing his study destination was driven by the need for a safe environment and better living conditions for his young children. Celso believes that the quality of education in Australia is unparalleled, not only for him but also for his children. He chose Sydney, Australia, for this reason.

To secure better opportunities, Celso moved with his family to Queensland, where he now works as a Piping Designer for a mining company. In this role, he is responsible for designing and drafting piping systems and equipment layouts. His guiding motto for success is: "Never give up," a lesson deeply ingrained from his upbringing.

Celso advises aspiring students to study hard and dive deeper into topics that spark their interest. "It’s easy to just attend class and leave, but the more you study, the more you learn," he emphasizes.

Despite the length of his educational journey, Celso remains committed to furthering his education. His next goal is to complete a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.

Celso's story is a testament to perseverance, the pursuit of excellence, and the transformative power of education.

As an international student, Jebet moved to Australia in 2017 from Kenya, enriching her perspective and enabling her to bring diverse insights to Velie Healthcare Services which Jebet is headed as CEO. She became an Australian citizen on May 22, 2024, in Camden municipality, Greater Western Sydney.

As the CEO of Velie Healthcare Services, a registered NDIS provider, Jebet leads a team dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and mental health needs. Her family's values of compassion, empathy, and resilience, rooted in her cultural background, inspire her work and the inclusive, respectful principles of the organization.

Two significant achievements Jebet made after completing Bachelor of Community Services are:
1. Establishing Velie Healthcare Services as a trusted provider, which has been fulfilling due to the positive impact on clients.
2. Fostering a supportive, professional team environment, particularly for students from Acknowledge Education, providing growth opportunities.

Advice for aspiring students includes following your passion, gaining practical experience, continuous learning, building a strong network, and being resilient.

Living and studying in Australia offers numerous benefits such as high-quality education, cultural diversity, a high standard of living, work opportunities, natural beauty, research opportunities, and comprehensive student support services. Acknowledge Education helped me settle in through orientation programs, robust student support, cultural integration, language support, practical assistance, and community-building initiatives.

Looking ahead, Jebet aims to expand its services, enhance training and development, increase community outreach, and integrate new technologies to improve service delivery and operational efficiency for Velie Heatlhcare Services.

After completing the course at Acknowledge Education in 2023, Urszula has been working as a Trainee Civil Draftsperson at McDowall Affleck, an Engineering Company, in Midland, WA. Her role involves drawing, planning, and organizing residential and commercial projects, creating detailed engineering plans, explaining and adjusting drawings, and ensuring compliance with Australian standards. Additionally, she conducts site visits, test construction materials, and analyze technical aspects of designs.

Urszula’s family has been instrumental in shaping her values, instilling in her the importance of hard work, perseverance, and integrity. They emphasized education and the belief that dedication leads to success. Her extensive travels before settling in Australia taught her adaptability and resilience.

Two achievements Urszula is proud of include: transforming my life to pursue a new career I had long been interested in and securing a job in this new field while still completing my course, despite having no prior experience.

To aspiring students, she wants to advise maintaining a positive and curious attitude. This mindset makes challenges less daunting and helps overcome obstacles, facilitating continuous development and success in their chosen fields.

Living and studying in Australia has provided numerous benefits, including personal growth, professional development, and a high standard of living. The supportive environment allowed her to start afresh at 37 without facing penalties. Australia's multicultural society also offers opportunities to interact with diverse backgrounds, fostering cultural understanding and global perspectives.

Urszula aims to transition into a role as a Trainee Civil Designer within a year, with the long-term goal of becoming a Civil Designer.

Danuka's journey began on the outskirts of Colombo, Sri Lanka, in a family deeply rooted in healthcare. With a physiotherapist father and a cardiographer mother, hospitals were a familiar backdrop. Initially, he chose a different path in Business and Finance. After moving to Australia post-school, he worked in retail sales but soon realized his heart wasn't in it.

The onset of COVID-19 was a turning point. Witnessing the urgent need for healthcare professionals, Danuka made a bold decision to enroll in a Diploma of Nursing. The coursework was challenging, but stepping onto a ward for the first time, he knew he had found his calling. In Australia, he gained access to cutting-edge knowledge and technology, instrumental in his training.
Despite the difficulties of studying during Melbourne's lockdowns, Danuka appreciated the online support he received. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, advising aspiring nurses to be proactive during placements. "Show your worth, listen, and learn," he urges.

Now an Enrolled Nurse at Orbost Regional Health, 375 kilometers east of Melbourne, Danuka is recognized as a valuable asset. "Caring for people makes you feel very happy. They are so thankful," he shares. "In a small community, you get to know the patients and staff, which is wonderful."

Excited for his next challenge, Danuka is set to begin his Bachelor of Nursing this July, aiming to become a Registered Nurse. Having gained Permanent Residency through a skilled migration program, he plans to stay in Australia indefinitely, committed to advancing his skills and continuing his impactful work.

Danuka's story is a testament to following one's passion, adapting to new challenges, and the profound fulfillment that comes from caring for others.

I was raised by my grandmother, who was always cooking. I would spend a lot of time in the kitchen smelling and tasting as well as learning how to cook Mexican and Spanish-influenced dishes. I never thought I could become a chef; I thought it was far too difficult. However, I discovered that I had a talent for cooking, so I decided to start my path towards becoming a chef with Acknowledge Education in hopes of having a business in the future.

Dishes like poached eggs and tempura seemed impossible, but I learned in AE’s excellent classes how to prepare these and many other dishes. I also learned that maths plays an important role in the kitchen, as well as all about food safety. I can confidently say that I have also learnt how to place, price and develop a menu. AE really provided a solid foundation for my future in cooking

The program has really satisfied me, effectively blending practical skills with comprehensive theoretical knowledge tailored for the dynamic hospitality industry.

As someone who enjoys music and travel, I appreciate how the program encourages a broader understanding of global hospitality trends. The faculty's expertise has significantly enriched my learning experience, preparing me well for future challenges. I aim to leverage this education to advance my career in hospitality, seeking managerial roles to increase operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

As a dedicated hospitality professional with a diverse background, I have found my passion in the dynamic world of hospitality and tourism. My journey began with a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery, where I honed my culinary skills. However, I soon discovered my true calling in front house operations, finding it a natural fit for my outgoing personality and communication skills.

This realisation led me to pursue a Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism at Acknowledge Education, Melbourne. The course has been instrumental in deepening my understanding of the industry and enhancing my abilities to manage and lead effectively.

Currently working as a front house manager, I apply my learned skills daily, ensuring exceptional customer experiences.

Every day in English school at AE, we have five hours to study English with a couple of break times in between. Teachers help us with reading, writing, listening, and speaking English. My teacher gives me interesting games to practise, which really suits the way I like to study.

I have improved my writing and speaking skills since I started English school at Acknowledge Education. I plan to go on to Year 9 at high school here in Hawthorn East, Victoria, after finishing at AE.

I really like the life in Australia because when you look outside, the air is so clean and there are clouds. I love it very much. Without Acknowledge Education, I wouldn’t have been able to experience that.

Arriving from the UK, I was apprehensive about enrolling at an education facility in a different country. However, on attending the orientation to begin the Commercial Cookery Course Certificate III, I was reassured by Acknowledge Education’s processes. The timetabling was flexible, allowing me to structure my week in a way that suited me.

At the orientation, the expectations for students to follow were set out and our lecturers were introduced to us. The courses are divided into classroom lectures, online course work, assessments, and assignments, all of which are handled professionally by the lecturers. The practical classes are set up as a professional kitchen would be, with all of the equipment and materials required. This reflects the professional expectation set by the chef to prepare the apprentices for their future careers in commercial kitchens.

I was lucky enough to be part of not just one, but two Next Top Chef cooking competitions in June and December 2023, organised by the Hospitality department and run by the theory and practical lecturers. My team-mate and I achieved first place in the June semi-finals and second place in the December finals.

My future plan is to own a successful café or restaurant and become a well-known, successful chef and entrepreneur, and AE has made that dream feel much more achievable.

I really loved how my course at Acknowledge Education allowed me to apply theory in real-world situations through hands-on learning. The stimulating lectures and lively debates with my lecturers enriched my education.
Furthermore, the wide variety of courses provided at the college helped me to broaden my horizons and pursue new interests. My academic experience has also been greatly enhanced by the college's resources and encouraging community. It was a wonderful experience for me to compete in a cooking competition, and it reinforced my desire to study and develop in a team atmosphere.

I sincerely enjoyed my stay at Acknowledge Education. The academic environment is rich with learning opportunities. The theoretical classes are also well constructed, and the practical classes are in-line with the theory. AE’s instructors not only teach proper cooking skills and kitchen etiquette but also inspire and support creativity.

Before I took on this course, I was taking a Bachelor of Architecture and I did not expect that it would play a significant role in my culinary journey. The principles of design, detail, and space have greatly influenced my approach to cooking, and the teachers at AE have always encouraged me in this approach.

In the culinary arts, creativity and inspiration are what propel a chef to be exceptional. During my stay at the college, I did not find a time in the kitchen where I felt restricted in exploring my ideas as a cook. I am grateful to this school for giving me the honour of winning a competition but also giving me confidence in myself. Needless to say, I believe that I will be able to carry these lessons and experiences into my future career in the culinary world.

I have always been interested in talking to people and giving them advice to help them feel better. The counselling sessions and theory in my classes at Acknowledge Education are helping me learn to provide support to people in need. My teachers make these lessons much easier to comprehend and help me gain knowledge on how to apply this in real life.

In the future, I want to work with young people. I want to help the current generation to reach and maintain a good position in life and I want to be there for them in any way I can. I am looking forward to being a counsellor and contributing to the betterment of the community, and AE is making that journey a pleasure

The course at Acknowledge Education was very interesting because I learnt about many things that are currently happening in our community in Australia. The lecturers sharing their knowledge in their different fields of expertise gave me a better understanding of what working as a Community Service Worker entails.

As an international student, there were many community issues that I was not aware of until I studied the course, such as homelessness, alcohol and drug abuse and other challenges, and this has enabled me to be more aware of those around me who are going through some of these challenges. I also got to learn the history of Indigenous Australians, which gave me a better perspective on how these issues are often discussed in the media.

The support from our lecturers and support staff made the education journey at AE easier and more interesting. They demonstrated understanding and empathy for the students since, as international students, we go through many challenges that were especially elevated during the COVID lockdowns.

In the Philippines, counselling is a bit of a taboo, so I want to change that and provide quality counselling services to assist my fellow Filipinos who need it the most.

I have always wanted to pursue a course that provides me with the ability to make a positive impact on the community. This is why I found my counselling practice classes at Acknowledge Education very interesting—they provide me with an idea of how to empower people and collaborate with them to help them cope with their problems.

After my bachelor’s degree, I am interested in pursuing a postgraduate program in counselling at Acknowledge Education.

In my opinion, Acknowledge Education has an exciting and quality curriculum, but the hospitality of the staff, especially of the teachers towards the students, is where AE truly shines. I will never get over how cordial the teachers are and how genuine they are when it comes to imparting their knowledge to us. The dedication in their profession is nothing short of amazing. They are very open in taking questions when you don't understand something and comfortable with explaining in detail until you actually get it. Their work ethic has left a mark on me and inspired me to pursue the path of becoming a teacher.

I really do appreciate what Acknowledge Education has had to offer me so far, and I am thrilled to see what is in the future for me

The field of Construction, Design and Engineering has always been close to my heart. Growing up, I was fascinated and intrigued by the many construction designs and architectural styles. This passion led me to choose this course at Acknowledge Education.

I enjoy studying this course as it gives me a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of how to manage a project, how to manage people in a project and also how to lead a project to successful completion. I enjoy studying at AE because the team of lecturers are professional, friendly, approachable, helpful and very knowledgeable in their fields of expertise. I also enjoy the diverse cultures and different nationalities among the students and lecturers here. I am looking forward to learning more, interacting more and exchanging ideas with the AE family.

Acknowledge Education is not only giving me a chance to study English, but also to experience life in Australia. I really like living here because Australia has a lot of differences from my country. It is more modern and it has a great transport system. I use the train to go to school every day. It is really convenient for me and it saves me time.

I really enjoy English school at AE because, when I come to class, I can communicate with my friends from China and Vietnam through the shared language we are learning together. We can share our life stories and work together to improve our English skills. AE allows us to submit our homework on paper or online, which is very convenient for me because I can do it on my laptop or my phone when I am on the train on my way home.

After English school at AE, I will be able to start high school at a lovely school at Churchill, Victoria.

My family and I moved to Melbourne from South Korea recently, so I happened to join the program three weeks later than other students. The teachers and staff at Acknowledge Education really helped me to catch up and join in with the rest of the class.

Personally, I have found it easy to understand the program. Although my scores are far from perfect, the teachers at AE make sure that everyone’s hard work is rewarded and that the grading is fair. Additionally, anyone can ask for a reasonable evaluation from AE’s professional educators, who I deeply trust and rely on.

My current studies at AE will help me get closer to the future I am aiming for—not only academically, but also in spheres where human communication is crucial and high language proficiency is valued. I am deeply passionate about contributing to the wealth of human knowledge and uncovering new insights about the human body, and studying in the VCE program at Acknowledge Education is helping me on that path.

With five years’ experience as a Mechanical Engineer, studying Civil Construction Design opened a new horizon for me and made me realise that construction is a lot more complex, especially here in Australia.

I have grown a lot since I began studying my course at Acknowledge Education. I currently work for a mechanical contractor in Queensland. Using advanced software such as AutoCAD and Revit (skills I was taught at AE), I am able to produce accurate and competitive quotations for our specific trade. Applying techniques and methods provided by our instructor, I can easily navigate any tasks given to me. The familiarity with NCC, QBCC, and other industry standards that I developed at AE helped me a lot with liaising and coordinating with the local construction industry.

I am a civil engineer of infrastructure graduated from the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

I chose the Civil Construction course as I wanted to expand my perspective and understand the unique approach Australians have to the construction field. I believed that by entering this field, I could unlock the secrets behind its practices and methods. Furthermore, the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of technical standards and interpretation of drawings represented an additional attraction.

During the course, I improved my AutoCAD skills, although I already had prior knowledge of this tool. However, my Revit skills were limited before starting the course. Throughout the classes, I dedicated myself to deeply understanding how Revit works, exploring its features and improving my practical skills. The course provided a practical foundation, allowing me to significantly expand my Revit knowledge.

Currently, in my workplace, I utilize a diverse set of skills to navigate and contribute effectively to the demands of my role. These encompass both technical proficiencies and soft skills. On the technical front, I employ my expertise in areas such as technical drawings, project management, and software proficiency to streamline processes and enhance productivity. Additionally, strong communication skills are crucial in my daily interactions with colleagues and stakeholders, enabling effective collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Adaptability and problem-solving skills are also integral as they empower me to tackle unforeseen challenges and contribute to the overall success of the team.

My experience with the institution has been smooth. I love how good the trainers are to their students, just by making sure we feel comfortable and respectful to everyone in campus, they set the good examples. I have learnt a few things at Acknowledge Education so far in relation to my course, and this gives me confidence to practice in real life. Thank you!

I'm Shishir Amagain and a graduate of Acknowledge Education. It’s been pleasure for me to introduce about myself as a growing entrepreneur. As it is the small steps not giant leaps, that bring about success. It is an honour to develop my career and take those steps with Chilli Everest On Collins.

I am proud to have completed the Bachelor of Tourism and Hospitality Management program with Acknowledge Education. I learned many things while I studied there.

Throughout my time at Acknowledge Education, my professors and peers inspired me with their passion and dedication to the industry. The program's emphasis on practical experience and industry insights ensured I was well-prepared to face the dynamic challenges of the hospitality and tourism sector. The placement opportunities, networking events, excursions, and career guidance I received played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding and preparedness for the real world.

In the end, Acknowledgment Education helped me develop my understanding and provide a realistic picture of the tourism and hospitality industry, especially in Australia.

During and after my final placement at the Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association in September, which Acknowledge Education helped to arrange, I have received offers to work on multiple projects and later got promoted to a full-time position. I have been working as a CHSP service coordinator and, at the same time, co-facilitating social groups for older people who live with dementia.

It was an honour for our group to receive a Community Grant from Maribyrnong Council where I had the privilege to meet Maribyrnong’s Mayor at the celebration event. It was such a rewarding journey at Acknowledge Education, where doors like these are opened and you can be sure that all the hard work will one day bear fruit.

Acknowledge Education has been my best choice ever so far. Studying a course that I have always wished for in such genuine college is nothing less than dream come true.

Every thing here is amazing. The college environment, resources, well- qualified and experienced trainers, nursing lab are the factors that makes the college best. Thus, I’m grateful and humbled to be one of the student here.

Talking about my course, I chose Nursing because being a nurse plays an integral role in promoting health, preventing illness, and caring for all individuals, including those who are disabled or are physically or mentally ill. I'm interested in nursing subjects to serve the needy and sick people around the world. It is a highly respected job in the world.Nurses help people and their families cope with illness, deal with it, and if necessary live with it, so that other parts of their lives can continue.

I love my mother very much as she is the best creator , motivation and supporter. But my mother often falls sick. I always wanted to support her for healthy living. So, I chose the best way out to serve her as a nurse. Today , I realized the job of nursing is not limited only in family but the entire world is in need of it. Florence Nightingale is the founder of modern nursing. She serves the wounded and sick soldiers in the war prone area.
Today, nusing has become very important subject for every family in the entire world for healthy living.

I'm proud to serve the sick people for a better healthy life. Today people get birth from their mothers but die in the hands of nurse in glory. "If it weren't for the support of my classmates and my teachers I wouldn't be where I am today," she says. "Believe me when I say there is not a better feeling in this world than truly earning and accomplishing a challenge."

Thank you.

I studied the English for Secondary Schools course to prepare for enrolling in middle school. I enjoyed not only studying English but also learning about several countries. I am happy to have made good friends, and I have happy memories of what I learned at Acknowledge Education.

After completing my English studies, I began Year 7 here in Ashwood, Victoria. Taking the classes with students who are mostly native speakers isn't easy, and I find English to be the most challenging subject, but I'm doing my best to keep up with the studies by going into classes well-prepared by practising speeches, memorising key terminology, etc. — things that I learned from my classes at AE.

My studies at AE have helped me make friends at my new school, as well. During breaks, I enjoy playing downball (a popular ball game in Australia) with friends. I also play trombone for the jazz stage band as part of the school's music program. I wouldn’t have been able to join in so many activities without my English studies.

Hiromi had a great career as a registered nurse in Japan.  However, in April 2018, she noted the significance of exploring a different lifestyle overseas and studying medical English in Melbourne. Hiromi undertook five different courses from English to a Diploma at Acknowledge Education. She was a diligent student and never missed a single class during her study over 4 years!!

“The COVID-19 pandemic, which started at the end of my first-year course added to my challenges, I witness people suffering all over the world, but it also made me realize the importance of community services.”

Through Certificate III in Individual Support, Hiromi gained knowledge and skills required to provide individual support to people using a holistic approach. Upon completion, she got a job as a Community Support Worker at Just Better Care.

“Positive feedback, expressions of gratitude and smiles of my clients make me happy and it’s a rewarding experience.”

Hiromi plans to work as a home-visiting nurse on her return to Japan, collaborates effectively with community services, and support in developing a diverse and inclusive community.

“In addition, the number of foreign technical interns who want to work as a caregiver in Japan has been increasing and I am interested in supporting them. I believe studying in Acknowledge Education allowed me to improve my English language abilities, to gain valuable experiences to accomplish my intended future career and to broaden my horizons.”

After three years of rigorous study and training in the aviation sector, Daniel was one of the hundreds of others who could not find his dream job due to COVID impact. In the last two years, he had worked in a variety of positions such as customer support, sales assistant, and civil cadet engineer to make ends meet.

“Change can be frightening, but you know what’s scarier? Allowing fear to stop you from growing, evolving, and progressing.”

In late 2021, Daniel decided to enhance his knowledge in the civil and construction industries by enrolling in the Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design at Acknowledge Education. He again found interest in how computer-aided design (CAD) software is used to construct bridges, roads, buildings and many other infrastructures. With this certificate, he hopes to become an experienced civil drafter for a well-known civil design company.

In August 2022, he was offered a cadet drafter position at BG&E – demonstrating that a drastic career change is not as daunting as it may appear.

- Written by Reema Muneer (Trainer)

“Growing up in Africa, I have always wanted to explore, and the enthusiasm to learn knowing that knowledge is power.” I am a believer in this adage that says, “Develop a passion for learning, if you do, you will never cease to grow”.

Anne has improved significantly after being quite anxious and self-conscious in her role as a helper by openly and bravely confronting her fears.   She has displayed deep reflection and thinking on the course content and often offered “outside the box” perspectives during class discussions.  She is a collaborative learner and contributes greatly to the learning culture in the class and enriches the educational experience of her classmates.  Most importantly Anne genuinely embraces the value of the community services profession.

Anne’s integrity has earned her the admiration of other students who look to her as a leader.

For these attributes, Anne has been awarded the 2022 BCS Scholarship at Acknowledge Education.

“Studying the Bachelor of Community Services - seeing first-hand experiences in Australia such as the respect for clients’ autonomy and best interests - has broadened my knowledge of Human Rights; hence increased my motivation to further my course to a Doctorate degree level.”

Kirill was all set for a successful career as a professional swimmer; however, his plans ended abruptly when, at the age of 18, he sustained a career ending injury in training. Kirill was forced to adapt and pave out a new life trajectory for himself. It was at this time that he discovered the Bachelor of Community Services at Acknowledge Education.

“During my time at Acknowledge Education, I received a huge amount of support from every lecturer, all knowledgeable in the field of social work and community services. As I progressed in my studies, my interest grew, and I realised that this was the field in which I wanted to make my career. I am forever grateful for the knowledge that my lecturers gave me and the memories I have created with them.”

One of the requirements of completing the Bachelor of Community Services is the 400-hour Placement in which students gain real-life industry experience. After completing his final placement, Kirill was offered a job with the organisation.

“It was an exciting step in my career as I knew this would open more doors for me. I worked for Afri-AusCare for approximately 9 months, and then I was employed by Uniting in their Integrated Family Services area which is a job I love.”

- Written by Gail Baker (Course Coordinator)

The Civil Construction Design Course at Stott’s College, so far, has been extremely eye- opening in regard to the career opportunities that will be available to me on competition of the course. With the modules including a variety of technical, business and project management content, the range of skills and knowledge we are learning can be applied to so many different job roles, projects and opportunities which is really exciting!

Abbas, our course leader encourages us to not only succeed but to really excel in what we decide to do following the course and has even opened up his personal network to help each of us achieve what we are striving for. During our lectures and sessions, Abbas is always extremely thorough in his explanations and always gives examples of how everything we are learning can be used in real-life scenario’s which is very useful when it comes to us applying the knowledge we have learnt in the real world.

The level of assistance, support and guidance that is available to us is amazing and I can safely say I am truly excited to apply everything I am learning to the new career path I am creating for myself in the building industry.

I started my Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design 6 months ago as an opportunity to extend my stay in Australia. I was excited to start a new course that, in addition to helping my residency status, would give me extra skills in a high-demand industry. This course is ideal for me as it gives plenty of options to pursue my career. It will not only give me a qualification, but also, with the useful modules we are completing, it will help with any job in the future. Now half a year later, I can tell that I still have the same enthusiasm about the course as I did at the beginning.

Its learning platform and friendly tutors have made this experience a smooth one. They give you a platform which is simple to use, and you can keep track of everything there is to do with your course. As for the teachers, I have had 3 different teachers so far and all 3 have been very welcoming and friendly. They ask the right amount of questions and are willing to help you out in anything you need. I have previously asked questions in an email (out of hours) and I have had all the help I needed. If you feel uncomfortable or need to discuss something in private, they will put you into a private room where you can have a face-to-face discussion.

Due to the current lockdown restrictions, we are mainly having online classes, so I’ve yet to meet my classmates in person. However, despite this, the college has managed the online classes well and has developed some team activities that help us to connect with each other through the computer.

Kirandeep’s time at Acknowledge Education has equipped her with essential skills, including critical thinking, research, and cultural awareness. This foundation has significantly boosted her employability and fostered resilience and independence, crucial for adapting to life in Australia. Career services sharpened her resume and job search skills, while language classes enhanced her communication. Cultural exchange programs and international support provided valuable cross-cultural skills and guidance for living overseas, laying a solid foundation for personal growth and academic success.

Now working as an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse at Sacred Heart Community in Melbourne, Kirandeep administers medications, monitors health, provides wound care, and conducts health assessments.

Raised with values of integrity, hard work, and compassion, Kirandeep’s cultural traditions instilled a strong sense of identity and community. Celebrating festivals and maintaining close-knit relationships taught her respect and resilience, shaping her character.

Kirandeep is proud of achieving job satisfaction and career growth through a well-earned promotion. She also cherishes her role in strengthening family bonds and supporting loved ones, thanks to a supportive husband.

To aspiring nursing students, Kirandeep advises prioritizing passion, dedication, strong communication, and empathy. Self-care, staying updated on medical advancements, and gaining practical experience are crucial.
She aims to pursue advanced certifications, diverse clinical experiences, and leadership roles. Continuous education, professional networking, community health initiatives, and advocacy are her priorities. Ultimately, she aspires to mentor future nurses and influence healthcare policies, becoming a registered nurse.

Australia’s excellent healthcare system, high living standards, and diverse society make it an ideal place for Kirandeep and her family's future. She is preparing for permanent residency or citizenship, aiming for a fulfilling life in Australia.

I graduated from the college in December 2022, and had my graduate work visa granted in January 2023. I was employed in March 2023. I got the chance of interview from my friend’s reference, I showed the graduate certificate and some previous work I did before, then I got three months internship. Now I’m a full time Contact Administrator in this commercial interiors company, it’s not a difficult job since some knowledge I learned from the college helped me to handle it easily.

I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for all the support and guidance you and your team provided during my Placement-1. Your assistance was invaluable in helping me navigate through the challenges and gain valuable experience. Your mentorship and constructive feedback not only helped me improve my skills but also boosted my confidence in tackling complex tasks. I truly appreciate the time and effort you invested in ensuring my success during this placement.  Working under your guidance was a privilege, and I am grateful for the positive impact it had on my professional growth. Your leadership and encouragement have motivated me to excel further in my career.

As Placement-2 approaches, I am filled with enthusiasm and eagerness to continue working with you. I am confident that this upcoming placement will be another opportunity for me to learn, develop new skills, and contribute even more effectively to the team.  I am grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me and look forward to building upon the knowledge and experiences gained from our previous collaboration. I am committed to putting in my best effort and making the most of this upcoming opportunity.

Once again, thank you for your continued support, and I eagerly await the start of Placement-2.

I'm from Brazil and I accompanied my husband for 6 months in Melbourne. I decided to take an English course and I really liked the organization since school. It was an amazing experience!

Teachers Joan and Loan are very experienced and manage to transmit all the content in a didactic way, but also in a fun way. They teach through games and practical everyday examples. I believe that my learning was more intense due to the way they pass on the content. I loved meeting people from different countries and cultures. It also enriched my learning a lot. I still have a lot to learn, but I've been quite pleased with my progress in such a short time.

I learnt a lot in the class, and see the handsome face every day. Just a joke. I spent about 18 weeks with teacher and students. They are very friendly and funny-for some students after class. It was so great to learn here. The teacher some times make some jokes during the class, but that not impact the knowledge we learn. That make the classroom full of fun and everyone like teacher especially Paul. He is a wonderful teacher with handsome face (joke again). I like this class and I wonder the others will like this class.

I have been taking classes here for nearly a year, and I have learned a lot of new knowledge. My English writing and listening have improved a lot, and my vocabulary has also improved a lot. I think what I need impove is reading which is very terrible for me, so teachers often help me and tell me how to do the reading questions and teach me the skills. I like Mr. Paul's class very much, because he not only teach us knowledge, but also he is very funny, often joking with us, often play games to improve our knowledge with us. He is so professional, I think he is the best teacher I have ever seen.

Learning a new language is always rewarding for both teachers and students. Teachers see their students’ development and students feel the change in their lives. My first encounter with Lindsey was when she came for the placement test. Her test result and speaking ability demonstrated her confidence and comfort conversing in English on the given topics. However, there was a lot that we could offer as learning a language is not limited to words and syntax. Here at Acknowledge Education, we offer an unprecedented experience.

Lindsey says, “the education environment at Acknowledge Education builds my confidence day by day and now I proudly say that I’m not afraid of communicating or expressing my opinion anymore.” We help our students to realise the value of their course. “The program I take at Acknowledge Education is an essential step in helping me to break the language, cultural and social barriers. … I’m ready to face studying in a whole new country.”

Acknowledge Education brings along a team of professionals who value their careers and teaching is not just a job. “Our teachers are passionate to put their efforts into educating their students. Although the lessons are sometimes challenging, I never feel left out.”

Written by Mehdi Moharami (Headteacher)

When Hashan started considering undertaking the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (SIT405016) at Front Cooking School in 2019, he did not even know how to cook rice.

“I was always determined to achieve whatever I decided to do. I even completed a bachelor’s degree and a postgraduate qualification in a different professional area in my home country. My determination was so strong when I started the Cookery course that I never missed my classes. I always try my best.”

Hashan kept doing his best even during the pandemic which delayed the completion of the work-based training. He wanted to improve his skills and worked without pay for almost 1 year. “Once when I was left with only $20 in his bank account, and planned to go back to my home country, the school staff (Ferdi) encouraged me to keep studying.”

Afterward, he finally landed on a job as a kitchen hand at Manningham Hotel & Club in Bulleen where he met an inspiring mentor, Chef David and learnt how to run functions inside out. After several jobs as a Comm Chef and a Chef at different hospitality establishments, he is now happily employed as a Chef at Castello's Long beach Hotel in Chelsea.  He successfully completed the entire 2.5 years of Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management.

“I have learnt a lot here and the Executive Chef Justine O’donoughue and Head Chef Rumesh Wijesiriwardena helped me to grow to the next level. The key to my success is to be resilient and dedicated. It is also important to be punctual to be a Chef!”

Written by Indika Ferdinando (Student Recruitment)

Chris started studying with Acknowledge Education in April 2021, having previously had his own business as a travel agent. The Covid19 pandemic prompted Chris into a rethink career wise and he wanted to combine his love of cooking & his travel experience into his future career.

Since studying with Front Cooking School Chris has worked for numerous hospitality venues in the Brisbane area to gain an exposure of all aspects the industry, ranging from a hatted restaurant to large pub chains and small family run restaurants. From the Work Based Training that was organised by Acknowledge Education, Chris has an offer to work at Grand Chancellor Hotel as a commis chef upon completion of his studies in October 2022.

Written by Mike Carlisle (Student Recruitment)

Hiromi had a great career as a registered nurse in Japan.  However, in April 2018, she noted the significance of exploring a different lifestyle overseas and studying medical English in Melbourne. Hiromi undertook five different courses from English to a Diploma at Acknowledge Education. She was a diligent student and never missed a single class during her study over 4 years!!

“The COVID-19 pandemic, which started at the end of my first-year course added to my challenges, I witness people suffering all over the world, but it also made me realize the importance of community services.”

Through Certificate III in Individual Support, Hiromi gained knowledge and skills required to provide individual support to people using a holistic approach. Upon completion, she got a job as a Community Support Worker at Just Better Care.

“Positive feedback, expressions of gratitude and smiles of my clients make me happy and it’s a rewarding experience.”

Hiromi plans to work as a home-visiting nurse on her return to Japan, collaborates effectively with community services, and support in developing a diverse and inclusive community.

“In addition, the number of foreign technical interns who want to work as a caregiver in Japan has been increasing and I am interested in supporting them. I believe studying in Acknowledge Education allowed me to improve my English language abilities, to gain valuable experiences to accomplish my intended future career and to broaden my horizons.”

I started studying at Stott’s College in early 2018 choosing Cert III and IV of Commercial Cookery. Throughout the 2018 and 2019, at the very young age, I had to be independent and balance between work and schools. The reason I have to work is to take care of myself with all the essentials needs. Therefore, its hard to concentrate on my school work due to long hours I have to put into work. Furthermore, as an international student who has just started in Australia, in late 2019 I have been physically attacked by a groups of foreign young adults. This result in me feeling frightened to travel outside much and it also had a significant impact on my ability to focus on school work. I started going back to study in early 2020 that is when pandemic hit Australia. Despite this, I still maintained my attendance and finished most of my units. Only some of them are not satisfied due to sickness and the barriers of Covid. Going to 2021 I finished most of my Cert III and IV with only few units missing and the logbook. At start of 2022, I finished all of my study units from Cert III and IV and Diploma. I started working on my logbook and finished late July 2022. I have always been active and followed up with miss Florence to finish the missing unit.

I am a civil engineer from India after moving to Australia with my partner. As a dependent. I was looking for a job as a site engineer based on my previous experience. I could not get any jobs due to my of lack of knowledge about Australian standard rules and regulation in construction industry.

After a while of being in this country, I found out construction designing course for my future growth in construction industry. Consequently, I got Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Designing at Acknowledge Education, Sydney.

After enrolling this course, I am getting information about rules, regulation and resources to understand Australian rules and construction industry. Staff of the college are very helpful. Teachers provide information not only for educational purposes but also regarding the real world. LAWAND MAIKARI is my teacher and he got lots of experience in construction industry, he provides information from his real experience and knowledge that helped me a lot to understand so many things easily.

Aman came to Australia as a student when he was just 16 years old! Similar to many international young students coming to Australia to pursue their education, in the beginning, he demonstrated to be a naive and introverted student with low confidence suffering from  of mild depression as he had no friends or relatives

he was lost and couldn’t make up his mind on his future goals; He only knew he has to start and do something!! Aman joined Front Cooking School in Commercial Cookery, as he was genuinely interested in cooking.He had the habit of helping his mother in cooking and baking back home in Punjab, India. But lack of confidence and language barriers made him skip classes in a way that he could not pass his courses. He  was disheartened as he did not have a role mole to follow the footsteps. After meeting Chef Abhay Bhosekar he found his saviour and  managed to get through to stage 3.

Chef Abhay helped him with fine dining skills, adapting new daring ways to cook differently with love and passion being the first priority! This was a life changing event and now he has goals to reach.

Aman is now an accomplished Chef de Partie in an Italian restaurant in Melbourne city!! The way Aman has shaped up into a fine Chef  has surprised his supervising Chef. Aman owes his success and confidence to his trainer Chef Abhay and Florence in the Administration for guiding him empathetically, and helping him to gain confidence  in this journey!!

Aman is very happy with the way his life is shaping up and he's definitely hungry for more!!!

Written by Abhay Bhosekar (Hospitality Trainer and Assessor)

Naomi is a dedicated student, popular with her peers and always engaged with her friends who studied the Bachelor of Community Services along with her. She is open to the opinions and experiences of other students and is keen to seek feedback to improve her work.

After completing her diploma in teaching in Zimbabwe, she was deployed to a satellite school in the outback of the country were there was no electricity, no tap water; a single borehole services the whole community and a single bus service that travelled that route once a day. It was an eye-opening experience as she had gone up in a total opposite environment. What broke her heart was the culture in the place which was ‘Education is not important for a girl child as she is destined to be married off to a “wealthy” family’. This made her to leave the teaching industry and pursue studies in Community Services, with help and support at Acknowledge Education in Perth. She graduated in December 2021, started a job as a Service Manager at a NDIS provider company six months after graduating. Back home, she has managed to team up with a local church and has started a cooperative that sells poultry and vegetables.  The money does not only pay a percentage of the “girl child” funding at the school she first taught at, it also sustains the project.

Studying Bachelor of Community Service has been a fantastic experience. The course is well-structured and paced, with an open and welcoming atmosphere that encourages students to learn. Acknowledge Education's lecturers and administrative staff are also exceptionally supportive and accommodating, ensuring that no student is left behind. I believe that my decision to enrol in this course and to attend this institution was one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life, because I have been transformed to a new level in everything I've ever experienced, and I've been able to achieve my personal goals more than I ever imagined thanks to their incredible assistance. Thank you Stott's college and Acknowledge Education for transforming my life.

MLC gave me an amazing study experience. I learned a lot in this school. I took online classes before coming to Australia and enjoyed them, but now I feel like face-to-face class is better, is more convenient to communicate to teachers and practice my English. I made many new friends from different countries; we experienced the local culture and improve our English together.

My name is Xiaorong Yang and my English name is Jessica. I have been studying English for about a year at Acknowledge Education. I have been so lucky to have a wonderful study journey here, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic where almost every education organization met a big challenge to provide good quality services for their students. From my perspective, Acknowledge Education did a good job in this aspect.

Click here for the full letter from Jessica.

* Jessica has now started her pathway course, Diploma of Community Services at Acknowledge Education.  Good luck!

Studying Advanced Diploma in Civil and Construction at Acknowledge Education has been truly amazing. The course is well structured and well-paced, with an open and friendly atmosphere making learning enjoyable. Our trainer Abbas Haydous is confident, welcoming, enthusiastic, and engaging. He is one of those experts who knows very well how to link theoretical concepts to practical engineering and construction situations. It not only helps us understand things better but also leads to a development of an innovative approach to every concept learnt. His teaching method and approach are outstanding. He puts lots of extra effort to bring the best out of us during our assessments and provides enough support and guidance whenever required. He does everything he can to instill professional skills pertaining to this course. His creative approach and experience sharing in every learning area have given me a vision of how we should be working on-site professionally. Additionally, he is always preparing and guiding us on how we can successfully crack the interviews and handle complex situations with patience at work in the future. He is one of the best educators and if given an opportunity to even pursue the bachelor’s degree under his guidance, I will grab it. He is highly recommended.

I am honored to be able to speak in front of you all today and represent my fellow classmates on our graduation day.

I would like to thank my family for all the support they have provided me throughout my life.

My thanks also go to all the strong women in my life who has been my mentor, friend, and sometimes therapist. This includes my lecturers Mariam, Gail, Liana, Cherie, Reene, Winnie and my lifelong friends Poppy, Charlie, Vicky, Prisca, Val, and of course my mother. And I know you are not a strong woman but thank you Alex for making my studies bearable and sometimes fun.

Special mention goes to my brothers Davin and Kevin who I love more than anyone else in this world that always have my back and look after me even when I don’t deserve it.

I also would like to thank my dogs Kiara and Chef who has taught me patience and unconditional love.

And I know my dad is not here anymore, but I am thankful every day that he was my dad and I hope I made him proud.

Lastly, I would like to thank everyone that has been in my life even for a short while. I know you have made an impact on my growth as a person.

Graduation is a milestone in life. Personally, for me it marks my independence and freedom. Life is full of responsibilities but how great it is to decide which one is the one you want to prioritize. We can fail and we can succeed but it is all up to us. Being accountable for our own actions increases our possibilities. We can be our authentic selves. We can finally breathe out and say it’s over and I survive. And now we are equipped with our bachelor degree to find a job so we can be independent and do what we like with our lives.

All kidding aside, these past years of studying has taught me so much. Although sometimes it is unclear what I have learned, I know for sure that I have grown and developed since my first day at Stott’s. I think, mostly, I have learnt to be more compassionate with others and I now try to look at the underlying factors that can impact someone’s behavior. We can all be ignorant, and I think living is easier that way. But I think this world need more people with compassion and understanding. And I hope I am one of those people.

To all my fellow graduates, as we go on, we remember.

All the times we had together.

And as our lives change, we will still be friends forever.

By the way the last part is a lyric from the graduation song by Vitamin C if no one gets the joke. Cheers.

Clarissa Evelyn Bunjamin, the Dux of 2020, Bachelor of Community Services

I’m Hazol, currently studying a Diploma of Community Services. As someone looking into working with marginalised communities, studying Community Services at Stott’s College has been an amazing journey so far.

There is tremendous support from the academic staff, who have vast experience in the field and always go out of their way to ensure that they give honest feedback as well as advice on how to venture into the Community Service Industry.

Reflecting on my time so far at the College, I am amazed at how quickly I have learned how to think outside of the box. I enjoy the course, and I believe that this was the right decision for me.

When I started studying and Stott’s College, I was unaware of the complexity of the course I was about to face. It is not all about reading your course materials and understanding the theory. It is more about simulating scenarios where this knowledge comes in handy and how to apply it. Having a correct instruction from teachers with experience in the learning area can help you not only understand the theory, but also understand how it really works out on a construction site.

During my time in this college, I’ve had nothing but support from the school, especially taking into account the world’s situation. I’ve had most of my classes online and yet I’ve always had the chance to communicate with my instructors in and out of classroom. It’s actually become an opportunity to get to know and work with people across Australia.

Melbourne Language Centre's online HSP classes were well thought out while many other online classes were failing in their method of teaching during the unprecedented COVID time. My students thoroughly enjoyed the classes and were challenged by the skill level. They had real-time interactions with other students and teachers who worked hard to engage them during the class through the different activities like the presentations every Friday. At first, I had the impression of too many levels in HSP and both of my students were placed at a little lower level than they were because of their limited conversational skills, but it proved to be a source of motivation.  The students were quickly promoted through frequent level tests. I am proud of both of my students who actively participated during classes and asked questions frequently, and I appreciate the teachers who gave them a fun and supported environment even whilst taking place remotely.

*Two Japanese students are now studying in the mainstream course at a high school.

This entire school is a treasure of knowledge for me and I have cherished every moment of care, attention, blessing and teaching I have got from here.
Click here for the full speech.

My name is Celine. I studied in Stott’s College for 2 years. It was a fantastic journey in my life, being my second home in Australia. Thank you to the teachers who were always beside me and encouraged me to study. They helped me a lot choosing the course that I want to do in the future. Thank you, Stott’s for giving me a chance to build great friendships with my Chinese, Indian and Vietnamese friends. Stotts was more than a family to me, they will always be in my heart as part of my life. I also want to thank all the staff who worked so hard for us to have chance to study in a fantastic building. I wish Stott’s all success in the future. Thank you!

My name is Hannie. I’m from Vietnam. First of all, I really appreciate Stott’s for giving me a great chance to come to this beautiful country, Australia, to study. The school is like my second home.
During two years in Stott’s, I’ve met a lot of kind teachers and friends who helped me a lot in both my life and study. The teachers were always beside us, supported and motivated us in study. When I had trouble in something, they always helped me to find the best solution to overcome it. The students in this school are absolutely friendly, we had wonderful time together here.
Being an oversea student, I find it hard to live and study abroad, and Stott’s was the right choice to begin overseas study. After studying here, I feel much more confident to be ready for the new life in university.
Thank you so much for teaching me a lot during two years. You are not only our best teacher but also our great father. Wish you all the best.

I have just completed my first year in the Diploma of Community Services, where I found my trainers to be knowledgeable and supportive, especially in assisting me with my assessments. Coming from a creative background, I was also very happy to be involved in the Art Therapy  and other lifestyle programs while on placement at Aurrum Aged Care. Even better, I have transitioned into a paid role as their Lifestyle Assistant after successfully completing my placement!

Doing my Bachelor’s Degree of Accounting in Australia was interesting and full of unforgettable memories, and Stott’s Colleges has greatly contributed to that. Units are designed for students to learn and apply in the industry and exams are formulated to teach rather than just a test of memory. Furthermore, lecturers are respectable and highly qualified to teach the subjects related to their field.
What I love most about my international study experience is the balance between fun and work. The courses are developed in such a way that students have time to learn and enjoy their personal lives, so students can work part time and explore Melbourne while being a full-time student.

Lecturers are knowledgeable with the units they teach, and various techniques are used to ensure students learn and apply the concepts. Theory units are explained well and are relevant for my future career as an accountant. The Administration and staff are also friendly and helpful. They are accommodating and open minded. They take student’s criticism positively and are willing to change policies to benefit the students. Moreover, they take the student’s issues seriously whether its personal or related to studies.

Stott’s Colleges brings a university vibe with affordability, with the main campus in the city being extremely convenient to reach. International students who value education and a balanced student life should definitely study here.

Today marks the end of our long and arduous climb on the academic ladder as we reap the bounty of our hard work.  We have endured many ordeals, exhausted our abilities and pushed ourselves to the limit.  We strived and we prevailed.

Each one of us has our own story to tell about how we got here, why we are here and what drove us to stay. I hope you don’t mind that I share with you my personal story.

Click here for the full speech.

I have been trained at Front Cooking, Brisbane’s campus. I come from Asia and always fascinated to learn Western food. I would like to thank our trainer, Alex and Matt, who have given me knowledge in culinary. I also would like to thank to Pike and Andrew who always make sure we understand more about hospitality.

Amazing place and staff, they are always taking care of everything. The facility and kitchen is completely new. 100% recommend

Great staff and trainers. The knowledge given and how it is taught is brilliant. The facility is new and the kitchen is amazing and a fun place to put the new skills into practice.

As a current student, I am absolutely loving everything about studying at Front Cooking School. The team in Brisbane are the best. The trainers and staff know me by name, they are welcoming, so knowledgeable and FUN. I thoroughly recommend this cooking school to anyone who is thinking of taking the leap - DO IT.

The biggest reason why I was able to defeat the hardship, was from the purpose I felt helping my parents improve their restaurant, the positive feedback I got from customers and the legacy I will leave behind one day when I am done.  Being able to add a positive touch to someone's day by providing them with a good meal and good service with a smile, has also made my job feel more rewarding.

In December 2017, I competed in the final round of ‘The next top chef 2018’ cooking competition. Leading up to competition, my team and I practiced cooking the dishes several times with the support and guidance of our mentor, Tarin.

On the day of the competition, we were all very nervous. The prize was extremely generous so all the teams were ready to be very competitive. With all our passion and love for food, my team cooked like we had never cooked before, determined to be crowned the winners of The Next Top Chef 2018. We worked so hard to present the best of our cooking skills and knowledge and it all paid off. We won the cooking competition! I was so proud of the work we had displayed for the staff Front Cooking School to see. That moment was one of the best achievements in my life!  Thank you Front Cooking School for allowing me to be part of the first ever Cooking competition! What an unforgettable day!

I completed my study at Stott’s College many years ago and still benefit at daily work from the knowledge and profession taught at Stott’s.
As an overseas student, study life can be very tough, but the teachers at Stott’s made it a lot easier. They were professional, friendly and very helpful. Students could approach them for all kinds of questions and the teachers would always try their best to assist. The course is designed in a way that helps students to acquire various and broad skills, from how to conduct a business negotiation to how to make a proper handshake and etc. It was a fabulous year that I spent at Stott’s, had great classmates, learnt so much and without noticing, by the end of my study, I already transformed to be a professional.

With my diploma, I got my first job in a 100 years’ old British company in Hong Kong where my working life continued to develop successfully.

I was a registered nurse in Japan specialising in Home-based nursing. I have always been interested in community nursing and public health. I decided to study the Diploma of Community Services to bring my nursing career to the next level by gaining knowledge and skills in community services. I found one of the units, Manage and Promote Diversity very interesting. We learn how to assist and engage with people from culturally and linguistic background. I learned about gender inequality and how this is reflected in the Japanese culture.

Students in class comprise of many nationalities and speak English. Educators conduct classes always simple and easy to understand. Even when there are questions from students outside of class, educators usually find time either during the breaks or after class to respond. Due to classes being in the evening, I have the opportunity to work during the day. Therefore, allowing for a positive well-balanced student life of study and work.

View here for Japanese translation (日本語）

When I was researching and exploring my options of colleges to study community services, I came across Stott’s College and instantly knew this was the place to be.  With a strong support system for international students, I am able to capitalise on the opportunities available here to achieve my goal.

I have enjoyed access to a range of services and units created to promote career development, with first and second placements in reputable welfare organisations. The staff are friendly and very helpful.

I have had a lot of unforgettable memories when studying the Bachelor of Community Services course at Stott’s College. Both the lecturers and staff have been so incredibly responsive and helpful to students. The online learning resources and Moodle platform are clear and intuitive. The quality of the teaching has been excellent. Lecturers are professional, experienced, concise, and engaging. Constant student-tutor interaction has also assisted me in consolidating my understanding on previously confusing topics. More importantly, through the two fieldwork placements, I have been able to integrate and apply community services theories into practice. The placements improved my skills and knowledge to make me ready and highly confident to work in the industry. I plan to someday contribute to the general community, and to give back to the Stott’s College community, which helped me pursue my dreams.

What I like in the course is learning how to embrace vulnerable people in the community by listening to them and giving them a voice to become better members of society.

Stott’s College is committed to guiding students on the right path of success.

Stott’s College is a school that adapts quickly to social changes.  During the pandemic, Australia border still remains closed and many international students, including me, are not able to enter Australia and go to school.  Fortunately, Stott’s College is one of the few schools that provide 'online' learning course.   Teachers here are kind and you don’t have to be afraid to ask for help.   They are willing to explain the materials used in class and give feedback on our works.   They teach us with great care and the students are encouraged to study and excel more.   I feel greatly honoured and happy to study in such a great institute of Australia.

My name is Niranjana Sara Binny. I am currently a Nursing student at Stott’s College. I have just started my nursing course in January 2021. Previously, I studied the Diploma of Community Services.  I took Nursing in the Stott’s College itself because the management is quite friendly, and I am comfortable with the management. We can pay the fees on installment which I feel much easier as an international student. When it comes to teaching, teachers are always available for students even if it’s not the working hours. We are able to mail them at any time and they are very helpful with the assessments. Looking into  the infrastructure, they are quite student friendly, which gives homely feels.

Hello I am Hester Hu, I am studying in Acknowledge Education Perth Campus, majoring at Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design. I should be one of the first batch of students who study in this new course the college opened, and I might be the first Chinese student who study this subject at this college, therefore, the vibe is good for me from speaking English wise. Due to the pandemic, the college allows students to pay tuition instalments, to reduce our pressure.

Currently, our head trainer called Abbas, is very nice and responsible. In addition, he is very handsome. As long as we focus on studying each subject, keeping attendance, I feel it is not difficult to pass. I have classes 2 days each week, plus one day academic support which is voluntary. Submitting your homework on time, you always get a chance to revise it, no matter essay or exam, all the same, the purpose is to get us to master the knowledge, so generally we won’t fail our subjects. Up to now, I have yet learned CAD relevant subjects, the subjects I have learnt are about how to increase team work efficiency, project management, business negotiation or risk management, etc. but all relevant in civil construction industry, and each company or corporation all need these knowledge. After completing each subject and passing the exam, I obtain deeper knowledge in this industry.

After moving from Sydney to Perth I feel living here has a lot of merits, first, as students working hourly salary rate is normally higher than Sydney, also, rent here is cheaper, public transport I could get concession. In winter, it’s not so cold, the most important bit is the pandemic is well controlled here, so no need to worry too much studying over working, at the moment, we do face to face classes, compared to online classes, I like face to face, because it’s easier to communicate with teachers.

I arrived in Melbourne just before the border closed, but I enjoyed my course at MLC very much despite being online.  I loved when the teacher put us in breakout rooms. That way I was still able to make some friends and I am still in touch with them even though my course is finished now. It turns out that online school wasn’t boring at all because we did some  fun activities like quizzes and so forth. Also, my host family arranged by the school was very caring and helpful in many ways. I felt very lucky to live there.

Through my studies at MLC, I have gained confidence with my English and I recently got a job with IGA supermarket!   I am looking forward to it!

My name is Chhingly. I am studying General English in here now. I study in here for short time but I think it is the best place for me to study English in Melbourne because it is nearly the city so it is easy going to school. The classroom is so comfortable and the teachers are professional because they are good at teaching and have a lot of experience. When I study with them, they make me happy and I want to study here. So I think it is the best school and I love MLC so much.

I found that the IELTS Preparation course provided by the Melbourne Language Centre has really come in handy. Not only because the friendly teachers here help improve my English skills but it has also established a multicultural environment for students to have a chance to meet people around the world, to practise and communicate in English. It is a nice place for international students to kick off their education journey in Australia, and I really appreciate all the support given by Melbourne Language Centre.

I have been studying and making new friends here in Front Cooking School for more than a year now. Having the chance to do the Work-based Training through the school was a great “eye-opening” moment of working in the hospitality industry, letting me discover more of my capabilities – things I didn’t know I could do in the first place. I guess it’s also fair to say that cooking is not always just about how to cook, but also understanding how to work as a team with the rest of the kitchen staff. It’s also about communicating with the Front of House. All in all, my studies at Front Cooking School have shaped me into the person I am today. Having learned from the best chefs and trainers, I am forever grateful. Thank you to everyone from Front Cooking School.

I would like to take this opportunity to thanks you and front cooking school for helping me find a job during this difficult time with the COVID-19. I really do appreciate it.

Working here at Bread Top Factory is great and it allows me to use my skills and knowledge from what I learnt at Front Cooking School.

Currently a student in Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. I have been learning a lot, our instructor Chef Abhay is a great help on gaining knowledge to help us be equipped for our future careers. The staff and faculty were approachable and very helpful to help us get around with all that we need.

I am thrilled to offer my heartfelt testimonial as a student currently studying the Diploma of Nursing. The program has been a transformative journey, as it not only honed my crucial clinical skills but also instilled in me the profound essence of compassion and empathy, embodying the true spirit of nursing.

The teachers’ dedication to teaching extends beyond the textbooks, as they consistently emphasize the human side of nursing. The emphasis on understanding patients' emotions, fears, and struggles has been transformative.

Moreover, the school environment played a significant role in my development. The open conversation and supportive atmosphere allowed me to thrive and grow both personally and professionally. It fostered a sense of belonging and provided a platform for continuous improvement. This inclusive atmosphere has encouraged me to voice my thoughts confidently, further enhancing my learning experience.

I am proud to share that my dedication and growth during this course have led to receiving job offers on my placements and achieving recognition from work. The hands-on experience and the nurturing learning environment at the school have been instrumental in my professional development.

In conclusion, the Diploma of Nursing program has equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and compassion needed to excel in the nursing profession. I am excited to embark on this rewarding career, knowing that my education has prepared me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.