The South Coast Careers College have announced the appointment of their new CEO, Gary Watkins formerly from Sydney, now living in Jervis Bay.
Fresh from his management position with Medcast Institute in Bowral, Gary is set to bring his experience in training in many areas but particularly has a passion for the Aged Care and disability sector.
Gary also brings with him the experience and grounding of twelve years in Qantas with a further 10 years at House with No Steps, now called Aruma.
Recognising the growing demands of the region, from Batemans Bay to Eden, the college is already focused on providing training in the ever expanding health sector and well positioned with premises in Ulladulla, three sites in Batemans Bay and a campus in Merimbula.
Above: The simulations lab in Merimbula. Health sector education has a mock setup for students to practice with equipment.
The College, trading under, Adult Ed and South Coast College, a not-for-profit organisation has been operating since 1983 along the coast.
“There is huge potential for the next generation to enter a growing area like health and move into various roles within the Aged Care and Disability sector” says Gary who is settling into the main Batemans Bay office at 42 Orient Street.
"Thankfully, our next generation doesn’t have to travel to Wollongong to further their studies after school. From October this year, they can start their ‘Introduction to Nursing’ in Batemans Bay or Merimbula."
"If the Health sector isn’t for you, then check out our new training café, Mocha Café’ opening soon with the Summer School Skillsets including Barista, Responsible Serving of Alcohol, Food Safety and First Aid courses. The café due to open on Wednesdays and Thursdays to the public for lunch will provide a safe place for the students to practice their skills.
"Tip Out Thursdays (save me a cappuccino) will give customers a trial run of all the budding baristas. If you are reading this, you’re invited. Email the college for your free coupon to a student practice cappuccino.
Mocha Café is beginning to take shape
Gary said "The college is returning to some creative time with a course in mosaics, photography and basket weaving to assist those struggling with the crazy world of bush fires and Covid.
"Tech Savvy for Seniors is running on Monday mornings from 10am till 12 noon. This is a free course for those wanting to understand their smart phones, tablets and computers commencing at the beginner level.
"Our trainers in Batemans Bay and Merimbula campuses would love to hear from those who would like to transfer their skills to the health sector. If you have been working in hospitality, childcare, administration or maybe cleaning, you may be able to join the growing health sector. "Our regular course, is Cert III in Individual Support which anyone can join at any time due to the unique roll-over modules which we have created. This makes it easy for anyone to join, there is no need to start at the beginning of the year, you can start now! 2 days a week, every Monday and Tuesday, Zoom classes are being held at the moment due to Covid restrictions. Placements are arranged for you and the simulation lab is the only one of its kind along the coast. The college would love to hear from you to explore adding qualifications to your experience to join the care sector."
"Are you experienced in your field and thinking of retiring but could still manage 2 days a week? The college is on the hunt for those keen to pass on their industry knowledge and have a passion for teaching the next generation. Contact the college today and begin a conversation, it could be the next chapter for you.
"Please support your local college by dropping into the café located on Beach Road, Batemans Bay, or picking up the phone to volunteer, because some of our students need a little extra support.
"Even during these tough times of bush fires and Covid, your community college is stepping ahead doing things a little differently and we invite everyone to join the ride.
Phone 1300 722 223 or follow us on Facebook and Instagram."
