Bremer TAFE teachers become top students
The Bremer Institute of TAFE has congratulated its first group of teachers to graduate with a Bachelor of Further Education and Training through an arrangement with the University of Southern Queensland.
The arrangement gives TAFE teachers an opportunity to add to their current qualifications in education by offering a 75% discount on course fees.
Hairdresser and The Bremer Institute of TAFE teacher Jodi Bowen is the first teacher in her field to graduate from the program.
Ms Bowen, who has 20 years' experience in the hairdressing industry and eight years as a teacher at Bremer Institute of TAFE, was awarded the Faculty of Education medal for her academic achievements during the course.
"The course has improved my understanding of education theory and built my confidence as a teacher.
"Winning the Faculty of Education medal made the hard work worthwhile and reinforced my belief in myself.
"My experience in the industry had given me a solid background in training before I came to The Bremer, but this degree has provided me with the skills to educate as well as train," Ms Bowen said.
Since completing the Bachelor of Further Education and Training with distinction, Ms Bowen is now undertaking a Master of Education in Learning Innovations and Futures on a scholarship through Queensland University of Technology.
"Getting the degree has opened up a lot of doors and inspired me to continue my studies," she said.
"It has sparked my interest in online learning which increases the flexibility of courses and poses exciting opportunities for remote learning and social networking.
"The Bremer already includes online elements to its hairdressing courses and I'm very interested in further developing our online offerings," Ms Bowen said.
Institute Director at The Bremer Institute of TAFE Ms Julia Thaggard said the Institute was delighted to offer teachers the opportunity to increase their qualifications.
"This arrangement benefits the teachers, the students and the Institute and it is fantastic to see teachers like Ms Bowen gaining formal recognition for their achievements," Ms Thaggard said.
"We are committed to maintaining the high standard of education and training we offer all students at The Bremer Institute of TAFE. "