• Student's inspiring journey to complete Bachelor of Education course and grow her career in early childhood education
• At least 21,000 additional qualified early childhood education and care professionals are required to meet current demand

When Monique Frack (inset) enrolled in Charles Sturt University’s Bachelor of Education, she was stepping into unfamiliar territory. Having left school before completing Year 12, university was never something she imagined would be in her future.

Today, she is a Charles Sturt graduate, one who earned High Distinctions throughout her degree and is building a rewarding career in early childhood education.

For Monique, who lives in Duffys Forest near Sydney's northern beaches, this journey began with a passion for teaching and a determination to keep learning.

“I left school before finishing Year 12 but always felt passionate about teaching,” she said.

“I completed my Certificate III and Diploma and was left wanting more. I wanted to gain more experience in the sector, earn more money, challenge myself and continue to ignite my passion for teaching.”

Monique worked in education after leaving school but decided to take the next step and enrolled at Charles Sturt in 2022.

“I disliked school so taking the leap of starting university was very daunting. But I never felt alone. The lecturers and teachers were extremely responsive and supportive,” she said.

“It always felt like we were set up to succeed and that they wanted to see you thrive.”

Monique’s success comes at a time when Australia faces a significant shortage of qualified early childhood teachers. According to Jobs and Skills Australia, the sector needs at least 21,000 additional qualified early childhood education and care professionals to meet current demand.

The NSW Government is investing $769 million to build 100 new public preschools to fill the shortages of facilities and staff across metropolitan and regional communities.

Charles Sturt is helping address that challenge through flexible and supported student pathways into the profession. The University’s Connected Early Childhood Pathway, funded through the NSW Government’s Early Learning Diploma to Degree initiative, allows diploma-qualified educators to gain their Bachelor of Education (Birth to Five Years) entirely online.

That strong culture of support was something Monique experienced throughout her course.

“I loved the flexibility that online study gave me. I could work full-time, make time for my family and friends and still have a balanced lifestyle doing my hobbies, like going to the gym and walking my dogs,” she said.

“The online portal Charles Sturt uses is very interactive, not only with teachers but also with other students, which makes you feel like you are part of a class.”

While friends studying at other universities were often responsible for sourcing their own placements, Monique appreciated the assistance and guidance provided through Charles Sturt, helping remove barriers and allowing her to focus on learning.

Placements also gave her opportunities to broaden her experience beyond the education workplace she had known since she was 18. Working in new environments challenged her to grow as an educator and strengthened her confidence.

“During my placements, I felt valued by the services I chose. You aren’t just there for yourself - you are also there as a professional teacher to offer ideas, provide your expertise and collaborate as a team. It’s two-way learning, which feels very rewarding,” she said.

Monique’s story is a powerful reminder that there is no single pathway to university success. For prospective students wondering whether they are ready for higher education, her experience shows that passion, perseverance and the right support can make all the difference.

“I’ve just completed my last placement and subject for my degree. That sentence feels strange to say, because if I think back five years ago, I never thought this would be me.”