A new course in Bendigo is enabling locals to train for a career in mental health, with students like mum-of-three Pippa Jordan starting to make a real difference in the community.
Currently studying the Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315), a course introduced at Bendigo TAFE in July, Pippa is applying skills and knowledge from her learning into her job as a Mental Health and Wellbeing Trainee at Mind Australia.
“Before this I was working as an early childhood educator. Some of the children I worked with required some additional assistance and when they went on to school, I chose to take my education further as well and see how I can help in similar ways,” Pippa said.
“This course really sets you up for working in the mental health industry. I’m finding that the content is really relevant to the role that I’m now fortunate enough to be doing.”
Drawing on her education and personal experience, the 33-year-old hopes to be a source of support for others in the community.
“I’m hoping to take what I learn here, add it to my living experience with mental health ups and downs and potentially take my position into a more peer-led role within the industry,” Pippa said.
“The more people there are working in this industry, the better the outcomes we’re going to have for everyone.”
(Pippa - third from left - with her class at Bendigo TAFE City campus.)
Bendigo TAFE Acting Chief Executive Officer Janelle Arena said the new mental health course is designed to prepare individuals for a lasting career in an in-demand sector.
“We know that the entire care economy is facing specific skill and labour challenges right across Victoria and Bendigo TAFE is committed to working with the Victorian Government and industry to deliver skills and training that align to critical skill needs,” Janelle said.
“Our mental health course is not only supporting students like Pippa who wish to advance their knowledge and career in this important field; it’s also perfect for students who are starting out and wanting to enter a sector experiencing strong demand and increasing job opportunities right across Australia.
“We are thrilled to be part of the learning journey of our new mental health students, and we look forward to the impact that they’ll make as part of the future mental health workforce.”
Pippa encourages people interested in mental health to consider the new course at Bendigo TAFE.
“I feel like anyone could take on this course whether you come from a lived experience point of view, or whether you’re just interested in helping others in this space,” she said.
“This course is a part of Free TAFE. There are opportunities for pre-requisite learning to be credited into it and it can lead into other pathways like community services.”
Pippa says there are more ways for the community to learn about mental health this month, with World Mental Health Day observed across the globe on 10 October.
“Having world mental health day annually is an opportunity to shine a light on the mental health issues and concerns within the community now, where we’re doing well in addressing these concerns, where the shortfalls are and then also provide a discussion around what we do next and how do we help more people,” Pippa said.
“Every year that’s going to change and every year we’re going to do more.”
Bendigo TAFE’s Certificate IV in Mental Health is delivered through its Health and Community Centre of Excellence at the Bendigo City campus. Learn more about the course here.
