LOXTON’S Bianca Shephard says it was an “honour” being crowned Trainee of the Year at an annual awards evening last Friday night.
Miss Shephard, who is an early childhood educator at Loxton District Children’s Centre Woodleigh, received the award at the 2020 Riverland and Mallee Vocational Awards hosted by the Berri Rotary Club at the Berri Hotel.
“I was nominated for the award back in 2016 when I did my Certificate III and was unfortunately unsuccessful,” she said.
“When I was nominated again, along with my colleague, Kade, I was excited because it’s important education is recognised.
“There is no education industry award so it’s great someone from education won.”
Miss Shephard said she felt proud to represent Woodleigh.
“It felt incredible to win but it felt even better to win on behalf of Woodleigh,” she said.
“I’ve worked at Woodleigh for more than five years and the staff have supported me over the years through my Certificate III and diploma studies.
“They’ve helped me grow and develop as an early childhood educator and I absolutely love my job.”
Miss Shephard enrolled in a Bachelor of Psychological Science last year and said her traineeship has aided her with her studies.
“I started my psychology degree last August and it’s been great so far,” she said.
“When I’m done, I want to work with children and my traineeship has already helped with that.
“The award will help open pathways in the future and I’m forever grateful.”