Peter has had a thirty-year career in the Defence Force. As he approached the end of this career, Peter considered the options for the next stage in his life. He wasn’t keen on doing nothing and wanted to go into an area where he felt he could add value to and also give back to
After evaluating what he wanted to do, his personal interest and his skillset – Peter decided that the aged care industry could be the right fit for him. Following this, Peter then found that he could acquire the right certification and training through Open Colleges. He completed the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing, Home and Community).
Peter’s studies prepared him for a job as an entry-level Care Worker, he was trained to:
- Meet personal client support needs for older Australians, and those living with special needs.
- Tailor care for individual client needs.
- Communicate effectively and support clients living with dementia.
- Navigate and work within the health and community care sector.
Going back into study again, Peter found the whole experience really enjoyable. Learning about something really different from his Defence career was invigorating and interesting.
‘Leaving the Air Force after nearly 33 years, with nearly of those 30 years spent as a Service Policeman, required me to think about life after Defence. I wanted to maintain an active lifestyle while giving something back to the community by caring for the elderly. I have always been very fond of the elderly and enjoy hearing their life stories. The training I received from Open Colleges and the placements in aged care during the course have given me this terrific opportunity to achieve that end.’
His practical placements were undertaken at several aged care facilities Goodwin Monash and Jindalee residences. It was during his time here, that really cemented the decision for him. Peter knew that this next phase would be a rewarding and fulfilling in his working life.
The Jindalee Aged Care facility, in particular, found Peter to be a fantastic student and a welcome breath of fresh air in an industry that is in strong need of more capable and passionate people.
After living between Canberra and Townsville, Peter and his wife will find decide on where they would like to settle. There he will actively look for a position in the aged care industry.
