My name is Anelie Grace Libalib, and I’m originally from a small town in Negros Occidental, Philippines. I grew up in a farming community where most families, including mine, relied on agriculture as our main source of income. Life there was simple, and it taught me the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and perseverance.
Before moving to Kalgoorlie, I worked as a senior high school teacher in the Philippines, teaching a range of subjects including English, research, baking, and cooking. Teaching was not just a profession for me—it was my passion. I found fulfillment in guiding young people and helping them discover their strengths.
However, I wanted to continue growing both personally and professionally, so I decided to pursue further studies in early childhood education in Australia. Moving to Kalgoorlie was a big decision, but it allowed me to experience a new culture, gain international training, and learn more about inclusive and play-based learning approaches. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding journey that continues to shape who I am today.
Did you receive a regional bursary as an international student?
I received the regional bursary, and it truly helped me a lot in adjusting to life here in Western Australia. The financial support eased some of my worries as an international student and allowed me to focus more on my studies and practical training.
I studied the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood and Care and CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at the Kalgoorlie campus. What I enjoyed the most during my training was the work placement experience. It gave me the opportunity to apply what I learned in real childcare settings, interact with children from diverse backgrounds, and observe how educators support their growth and development.
Through those placements, I gained confidence, improved my communication and planning skills, and developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of play-based learning. It was also a very heartwarming experience to build meaningful connections with the children and see their progress each day.
How did you find the facilities on your campus?
The Kalgoorlie campus is well-equipped with all the facilities I needed throughout my studies. The learning spaces were comfortable and designed to support hands-on activities, which was especially important for my course in early childhood education and care. The campus also provided access to computers, study areas, and helpful student services that made studying more convenient and enjoyable.
What I appreciated most was how welcoming and supportive the environment was. It created a sense of community, even for international students like me who were far from home.
My lecturer was incredibly supportive and approachable. She always made sure that we understood each lesson and encouraged us to ask questions and share our ideas. I truly admired her teaching style—she combined theory with practical examples and always related our lessons to real-life experiences in the childcare setting. Her patience and encouragement motivated me to keep doing my best, and she often went out of her way to help us whenever we faced challenges in our studies or work placements.
Looking ahead—what’s next for you?
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing in my career as a qualified early childhood educator. I’ve learned so much during my training and work placement, and now I’m eager to apply those skills in making a lasting impact on children’s learning and development.
My goal is to progress further and eventually become an early childhood teacher. I plan to pursue higher studies in early childhood education to gain a deeper understanding of curriculum design, child development, and inclusive teaching practices.
Beyond that, I aspire to contribute to the community by sharing what I’ve learned with other educators, especially those back home in the Philippines, so they can also be inspired to pursue quality early childhood education. I believe that every child deserves the best start in life, and I want to continue being part of that meaningful journey.
How long have you been in Kalgoorlie?
I have been living in Kalgoorlie for more than two years now, and it has truly become my second home. The best thing about being an international student here is the wide range of career opportunities available, especially in regional areas like this. Living and studying in Kalgoorlie has allowed me to gain not just academic knowledge but also valuable hands-on experience in the local community.
The town offers a supportive environment for students, with educators, employers, and community members who are always willing to guide and help you succeed. I’ve also found that working and studying here gives you the chance to build strong professional connections and gain real insight into the Australian workplace culture.
Most importantly, Kalgoorlie has given me space to grow both personally and professionally. The balance of peaceful living, friendly people, and meaningful career opportunities makes it a truly rewarding place for international students like me.
Do you have any advice for students who are considering studying a course like yours at TAFE?
My advice for students who are considering studying early childhood education and care at TAFE is to go for it with an open heart and mind. The course is not only about learning how to educate young children, it’s also about understanding their world, nurturing their growth, and discovering your own potential as an educator. It’s a rewarding path that teaches patience, creativity, and compassion.
For international students, TAFE is a great choice because it provides practical, hands-on learning that truly prepares you for real-life work in the field. The trainers are very supportive and approachable, and they genuinely care about your progress. You’ll also have opportunities to do work placements, which help you gain experience, build confidence, and connect with the local community.
I would definitely recommend studying at Kalgoorlie campus to my family and friends. The supportive learning environment, excellent facilities, and friendly staff make it an ideal place to study. TAFE doesn’t just help you earn a qualification—it helps you grow personally and professionally while feeling part of a community that values learning and inclusion.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I would love to share one of the proudest moments in my journey here in Western Australia. I was truly honoured to be named the WA Training Awards – International Student of the Year 2025. Winning this award was such a humbling and unforgettable experience. It reminded me of how far I’ve come—from a small farming town in the Philippines, to achieving something I never imagined possible here in Australia.
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support from my lecturers and employer, Goldfields Child Care Centre. My lecturers provided me with the training, guidance, and encouragement I needed to succeed, while Goldfields Child Care Centre gave me the opportunity to apply what I learned in a real workplace environment. Their trust, mentorship, and constant support played a huge role in my growth as an educator and as a person.
Winning the award is not just a personal milestone, it represents the dedication of all international students who work hard to pursue their dreams despite challenges. It also inspires me to give back, to continue learning, and to motivate others—especially my fellow educators and international students—to believe that with perseverance, passion, and the right support, anything is possible.