Community Education Trainer of the Year Award Finalist

Local Baulkham Hills resident, Sue Bryant, is a dedicated trainer in childhood education and also a Finalist of the 2023 Community Education Trainer Award.

With over 32 years of experience in early childhood services, Sue Bryant was drawn into the industry after completing her HSC in 1991, “My dream has always been to work with children and young people. Growing up, I always had an interest in working with children, and often babysat at 14 years old. In Year 10 I completed my first work experience at a pre-school which confirmed that my dream of working with children was real!”

Sue is currently the assessor and Lead Trainer for the Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care at Macquarie Community College (MCC). Sue’s team currently supports over 500 active students, many of whom come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. This year, after working at MCC for five years, she was even elected onto the Macquarie Community College Board of Directors by her colleagues. Sue expressed her passion for SUE BRYANT both her workplace and the opportunity to work alongside her colleagues in delivering professional training:

“Being a leader in a team of 15 early childhood trainers brings me joy each day. The team is a very cohesive one that certainly achieves the mantra: ‘teamwork makes the dream work’… Even though my time on the board to date has been minimal, I have loved every minute of it and look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the other MCC board members!”

Her dedication to serving her local community and upskilling workers led Sue to become a Finalist for the 2023 Community Education Trainer of the Year Award. The award, given by Community Colleges Australia, recognises 10 outstanding members from across the industry. Sue was nominated by her manager Stuart, as she recalled the exciting phone call:

“When I received the phone call from Stuart to ask my permission for the nomination, I was completely blown away and surprised that he asked me! To be recognised at this level is a very special time in my life that I will never forget. The award night itself was truly wonderful as I was supported by my husband, my parents, and management of MCC. I was up against some tough competition and while I didn’t take home the top prize, and I congratulate those that did, In my mind and heart I was a winner by getting thus far”.

Sue Bryant has been a Hills resident for the past 26 years and is also a married mother with three grown-up children. However, her schedule continues to keep her busy with various volunteering opportunities, including her role as NSW Playgroup Coordinator for Baulkham Hills, Vice President and assistant coach for a local netball club, and a Band Coordinator for a local public school.

While Sue is honoured by her award, she wants to use her platform to encourage a shift in the attitudes people may have towards childcare workers as ‘babysitters’:

“As a society we need to further our understanding of the role of the Early Childcare sector. We are professional, trained educators who take the time to apply our knowledge, skills and expertise to our little people and create inviting, warm and engaging play-based learning environments. It is certainly not an easy role but one that is so very rewarding. After 32 years in this sector, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”