When Julie’s employer decided to upskill their hardship team’s financial literacy, it not only boosted her skills but also created better outcomes for clients. We caught up with Julie for a quick yarn to find out more about her study experience with ICAN’s Registered Training Organisation, ICAN Learn.
Welcome to The Yarn, Julie!
Can you share a bit about yourself with us?
I live in regional Victoria, and work as an Assistance Officer. Before this, I spent 16 years as a public servant for the Federal government. A couple of years ago, having raised my three amazing daughters, I felt it was time for a change. I wanted to be part of a more local team, and that’s when I found my current role.
What inspired you to jump back into studying?
My employer enrolled our team into ICAN Learn’s Financial Literacy Education CHCSS00077 course, recognising that the knowledge gained would be invaluable in our roles. Personally, I’ve faced my own financial challenges, especially after my marriage ended and I found myself raising my children as a single parent. I truly understand the overwhelm that comes with these life challenges.
Can you share some highlights from the course?
I really loved it. The facilitator was brilliant – so engaging and passionate – and the interactive sessions really helped to generate my enthusiasm for the subject. Normally, I find studying a bit of a chore and tend to be a bit of a last-minute studier, but this time, I was genuinely motivated to attend the classes and tackle the assessments head-on.
What were some of the challenges along the way?
Balancing my full-time job with attending classes was definitely a challenge. I had to carve out a couple of hours during the week and over the weekends to complete the assessments. It was a pretty busy time, but absolutely worth it.
How do your new skills make a difference on a daily basis?
I absolutely love my role and the personalised touch we offer. Completing the course has really boosted my skill set and the outcomes I can achieve for clients. I have seen countless examples of the small difference we can make. Whether it’s helping someone with a utility grant, sourcing assistance funding, helping with a financial counsellor referral form, or attending community education events, having this skill set can lead to significant, long-term improvements for our clients.
What career paths can this skill set open up for people?
First and foremost, this course will increase your ability to achieve greater outcomes for your clients and give you an understanding of how and why people can fall into hardship. These skills can also offer career opportunities, such as financial capability worker, or other community service roles, as the skill set is totally transferable.
Where to next with your studies?
The course has really ignited my curiosity about financial counselling and the financial wellbeing sector in general. It also reminded me how enjoyable and motivating learning can be when you have a bit of a spark for the subject matter. I may decide to study for the Diploma of Financial Counselling CHC51122 with ICAN Learn sometime in the future, but it is a big commitment, working full time and doing the required placement hours. Watch this space!
For more information about how ICAN Learn can help with your training needs:
Visit our website to find out more about our courses and scholarships
Need help with your corporate training needs? ICAN Learn is here to help! Contact us at administration@icanlearn.edu.au or phone (03) 5471 7777
