Ms Rochelle Easman is one of more than 1,000 school support staff taking the next step in their careers through Charles Sturt University’s dedicated teacher’s aide pathways.

This year, more than 25 CTAP students have proudly graduated, proof that with the right support, it’s possible to balance work, family and study to realise the goal of becoming a teacher.

Rochelle said after stepping away from her initial studies at Charles Sturt due to family responsibilities, she spent five years helping run the family businesses.

“I thought my dream of becoming a teacher had ended, but a chance conversation with a school principal led to a role as a School Learning Support Officer (SLSO),” Rochelle said.

“I loved the work and found myself immersed in the school environment again, and when I received an email about the CTAP program, I hesitated, unsure if my dream was still possible.

“But reaching out to Associate Professor Libbey Murray in the Charles Sturt School of Education reignited my belief and her encouragement and guidance gave me the confidence to take that leap.”

Rochelle said CTAP didn’t just offer a pathway, it offered belief, with tailored support, clear guidance, and understanding of her unique journey that helped her rebuild her confidence.

“Studying while working as an SLSO gave me real-world context for my learning, making university study feel relevant and achievable, while the CTAP community made me feel seen, heard, and capable,” she said.

Rochelle described the kinds of support from the University that made a difference for her was nothing short of extraordinary.

“Dr Libbey Murray and Mrs Janine Ferguson, both former lecturers of mine, were instrumental in helping me navigate the path forward; their patience, responsiveness, and genuine care made every challenge feel manageable,” she said.

“I was also fortunate to receive a $3,000 scholarship, which eased the financial burden and allowed me to focus more fully on my studies. The CTAP team, as well as Dr Anne McLeod, worked tirelessly to help me overcome administrative hurdles due to my previous study gap and their support was consistent, compassionate, and empowering.”

Rochelle is now a proud classroom teacher at Gilgandra Public School and is surrounded by supportive colleagues and leadership who guide her as a beginning teacher.

“My background as an SLSO enriches my teaching practice and I understand student needs from multiple angles,” she said.

“I hope to inspire students not just academically, but socially and emotionally because I want to be a teacher who helps children believe in themselves, just as CTAP helped me believe in myself.”

To celebrate the completion of her studies, Rochelle chose to do an ‘at home’ graduation offered by Charles Sturt.

“I spoke to my school principal Mr Michael Darcy at Gilgandra Public School and we decided to do it at one of our weekly school assemblies,” Rochelle said.

“To be surrounded by my class, colleagues, family and school community was amazing, and I hope inspirational.

“I hope that it will encourage students to always follow their dreams and show fellow SLSO’s that this is an achievable goal.”

Rochelle’s advice to any SLSO dreaming of becoming a teacher?

“CTAP is your bridge, the support is second-to-none, the pathway is achievable, and the impact is life-changing,” she said. “Don’t let doubt hold you back ─ reach out, ask questions, and take that first step. Your dream is closer than you think.”

School support staff interested in upskilling to become a Primary or Secondary school teacher can apply for the Bachelor of Educational Studies as a pathway to the Master of Teaching (Primary) or the Master of Teaching (Secondary).

The Charles Sturt Admissions team will assess eligibility and credit, and ensure students are enrolled in the most suitable degree based on their prior qualifications and experience.

More information for potential students can be found on the Teacher’s Aide webpage.