At 18 years old, Summer Garner is already building a career in early childhood education.
Recognised for her natural talent and leadership potential, Summer is playing an important role at EduKids in Melton.
She is also close to completing her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care through Victoria University (VU) TAFE and has plans for further study.
Summer has been part of VU TAFE’s Diversity and Innovation in Early Childhood Education (DICE) program, which provides additional supports to students studying ECEC. DICE is funded as part of the department’s Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships program.
Finding a path beyond school
Summer wasn’t sure what to do when she left school.
‘I knew I wanted to help people, especially young children,’ Summer said.
With support from her youth worker, who believed in her potential, Summer enrolled in a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and quickly thrived.
‘At first I questioned whether I could do it, but I had to give it a chance,’ she said.
Encouraged by Pam Chapman, a community engagement coordinator from VU TAFE, and other staff, Summer committed to her studies.
Within a month, her transformation was clear. ‘We saw her blossom,’ Pam said. ‘She turned a corner and never looked back.’
Mentoring and structured support through the DICE program were critical. With progress plans, one-on-one guidance and additional classroom support, Summer always had someone guiding her forward.
‘I never felt alone,’ she said. ‘If I was struggling, there was always someone there to help me through.’
The impact of scholarship support
Financial barriers could have stopped Summer’s journey before it began. Initial costs were covered by the DICE program and from there, the Early Childhood Aboriginal Pathways Scholarship became a major turning point.
She was initially overwhelmed.
‘It felt surreal,’ she said. ‘I didn’t think I deserved it. But it motivated me to keep going’.
Summer used the scholarship funding for both immediate and future needs. Beyond study materials, it allowed her to contribute to household expenses, complete driving lessons and buy her first car.
‘That car gave me independence,’ she said. ‘Now I can get to work and study. It changed everything.’
Building a career and confidence
Summer’s studies helped her realise her potential. She now focuses on creating safe, supportive environments for children and building strong relationships with children and families.
‘It’s so rewarding seeing children happy and knowing they feel safe with you,’ she said.
She listens closely to children, believing every child deserves support.
‘If they’re struggling, it means they need someone to believe in them,’ she said.
Words of advice
Summer encourages anyone thinking about studying to ‘give it a go’.
‘If you’ve been through hard things, that has made you a stronger person. Even if you don’t believe in yourself, someone else might believe in you, and that can change your whole outlook,’ she said.
She also encourages others to explore scholarships and support programs.
‘Definitely apply. It helped me find a career and find myself. I’m proud of where I am now.’
How to apply
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can apply for Victorian Department of Education scholarships supporting study in Certificate III and Diploma qualifications in early childhood education through to early childhood teaching at university.
Scholarships are available to those new to study, already studying or working in the sector and looking to upskill.
To check eligibility and apply for financial support under the Early Childhood Aboriginal Scholarships program, refer to the early childhood scholarships and incentives application portal.
If you are looking to upskill to a Diploma or Bachelor qualification with more support, refer to the Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships program webpage. The program offers tailored courses with a range of benefits to support you while you study.
Find out more
A dedicated First Nations coordinator from BUSY At Work supports applicants throughout the scholarship program. For enquiries about the Early Childhood Aboriginal Pathways Scholarships Program, contact Monica Lay, BUSY At Work:
- phone: 1300 161 396
- email: ec.financial.support@education.vic.gov.au
Updated