TAFE NSW Orange student Hannah McDonald switches from vet nursing to early education and care

Miss McDonald said she is one step closer to her dream of opening her own family daycare centre.

"I have always had an interest in working with children and was becoming overwhelmed by the hours I was working as a vet nurse," she said.

"I completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE NSW Orange and I'm almost finished my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.

"I'm looking forward to be a business owner and to work independently in my field."

Miss McDonald also said she is working casually at Willows Early Learning Centre and as a vet nurse.

"I'm a very structured person and I work my studies around work," she said.

"Although I really enjoy working with children because they teach me something new everyday and I like to think I'm helping them get ready for the world.

"It's also fun being able to play and be on their level."

TAFE NSW recently announced a Destination Australia Scholarships program to encourage people who made a tree change to consider a career as a early childcare worker.

The $15,000 Commonwealth Government scholarships provide support to students to help with the costs associated with relocating, living and studying a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE NSW Orange.

Miss McDonald added for people who are considering a career change into early education to apply.

"I think there isn't too many people applying for the course and this scholarship will help people reach their goals," she said.

"There are so many other career pathways from early education and care and it helps you open up new doors.

"My teachers have all been so supportive and are educators themselves, so I am learning from their vast experience and skills in the industry."

Applications for the scholarships will close on 11 September.

For more information on the Destination Australia Scholarships and early childhood education and care courses available for semester two, visit : https://www.tafensw.edu.au/enrol/payment-funding/scholarships/destination-australia-scholarship or phone 131 601.