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Early childhood study wins Katanning prize

Shannon SmithGreat Southern Herald
Southern Regional TAFE's top student Rebecca Wilson.
Camera IconSouthern Regional TAFE's top student Rebecca Wilson. Credit: Laurie Benson/Albany Advertiser

Excelling in her early childhood studies, Katanning’s Monica Gagiano has been named the Katanning Campus student of the year by South Regional TAFE.

Ms Gagiano undertook a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in 2019 and was nominated for her adaptability, dedication and high standard of work.

The 20-year-old said while she was shocked to hear of her recognition, she had worked hard for it all year and was proud of what she had accomplished.

“I have a learning disability so I can’t do some of my work very well, but TAFE gave me lots of help and I put in extra effort to show everyone and myself what I can do,” she said.

“I love working with children, and the time that I spend at the childcare centre is very fulfilling for me.”

Ms Gagiano hopes to finish her diploma and work full-time at a childcare centre.

One day, she would like to acquire a kindergarten teaching degree.

Individual course awards for best performance went to Jean Connelly for aCertificate II in Horticulture; Emma Langdon for a Certificate III in Individual Support; and Tahlia McRoberts for a Certificate III in Education Support.

Also in the Great Southern, Albany’s Rebecca Wilson took out the overall title of South Regional TAFE student of the year.

Ms Wilson, who undertook a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (Acute Care), stood out among more than 10,000 students attending the college’s 12 campuses in the south of the State last year.

She had already been named Rotary Club of Albany City student of the year for the Great Southern.

She said she was excited to take what she had learnt in her studies and put it into action.

“Now more than ever, it’s great to be working towards a career that is so valuable and in need,” she said.

“I only wish I could do more at this current time of need.

“Learning throughout this pandemic is an amazing experience.

“It really makes you take in the importance of everything we are taught as students.”

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