If you’re thinking of getting back into the paid workforce after a parenting break, chances are you might be keen to brush up on your skills. Or perhaps you are thinking of taking a completely new career path.
Either way, on-line study can be a great way to augment your skills, find direction and motivation, or try out various interests to see if they will get you into a job that you love.
On-line study is ideal for busy mums because it’s so flexible. You can be completing a course while the kids are tucked up in bed, while they’re at school, or even while you sit through after-school sports activities! Study can provide a welcome break from the monotony and isolation of household tasks, and can be a key motivator to pursue your chosen career path.
Here’s my top tips for on-line study to supercharge your career plans:
Tip 1: Find direction and motivation with free short-course options
On-line study needn’t be a costly exercise! You can enrol for on-line short courses for free. Check out MOOCs (Massive Open Online Course) listings at sites such as Open2Study MOOC. While you won’t receive a qualification aligned to the Australian Qualification Framework by completing one of these courses, they are a great way to explore your career interests and see which of these could lead to a job you love. If you already possess a formal qualification, they can also be a great way to brush up on your skills.
Tip 2: Find your pathway to University
If you are ready to undertake University studies, check out whether your local University offers a free tertiary preparation course. These are a great way to ease yourself into study, offering subjects such as academic writing and other helpful skills.
Tip 3: Consider the vocational education and training options
Don’t overlook Vocational Education and Training (VET)! Many courses in this sector can be completed quickly, will cost less than university qualifications, and can have excellent employment outcomes.
Tip 4: Investigate subsidies
When it comes to the cost of study, there are a few subsidy options that you may be able to access. In Queensland, the Certificate 3 guarantee provides subsidies for a first post-school Cert III qualification. Visit Cert 3 Guarantee for more information.
Tip 5: Balance study with family responsibilities
Manage your time so that study becomes a positive and rewarding experience rather than an overwhelming drain on you and your family. It’s often possible to study just one subject at a time when completing a qualification, or if you’re stretched for time, short-courses may offer a manageable solution to help you build your skills and confidence. While on-line courses offer flexibility that really suits busy mums, this also can be challenging as there is no requirement to attend at certain times. It can be a good strategy to join on-line study groups or set aside time to go to the library to study to keep you accountable. Often the interesting work and focussing on the end goal are all the motivation you need to keep you on track! So what are you waiting for? In two years time, don’t look back and wish you had started now. Time to supercharge your career plans in 2022.