From industry to educator
Meet Chris, horticulture educator at Minda Inc.
- Chris teaches Certificates I, II and III in Horticulture.
- He has been teaching for 15 years.
- Chris previously operated his own business before moving into adult community education and VET.
“I originally studied teaching at university and completed placements in schools, but I didn’t feel it was the right fit at the time. I moved into Permaculture and Horticulture instead. Later, when I discovered opportunities in adult education, it reignited my interest in teaching and ultimately led me into VET.”
“Living in regional NSW at the time and operating my own gardening business I was aware the local ACE college was running accredited Permaculture as a new course and needed trainers. I completed a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and started as a contractor delivering just one unit out of the qualification, as time went on I taught more units and then started training horticulture as well. I continued operating my gardening business and training until 2023 and am now working as a trainer full-time.”
“I enjoy seeing and supporting students overcome obstacles to learning during their course and value that I can be a part of their journey to completion and then onto meaningful employment.”
“The grounds of Minda are 70 acres with numerous gardens and lawns, after the first session in the classroom we are often out doing practical learning. Recently we were pruning some of the street trees on site, also each fortnight we introduce 5 new plants while walking the site learning about their characteristics and suitability in the garden and landscape. The afternoon is about finishing any projects or book work, and I can catch up with students regarding assessments. Non-teaching days involve marking, entering results, answering emails and preparing resources and assessments.”
“While there is a learning curve regarding the VET system and compliance side of being a trainer it is great to have a job that is not directly linked to large amounts of physical work. Industry experience is gold in the classroom and don’t be daunted at the teaching side of things as often resources are provided to support trainers to run sessions.”