They decided to run a donation drive for Fair Game — a Western Australian charity that supports underserviced communities to live healthy, active lives. Fair Game redistributes pre-loved sporting equipment to remote and regional communities, helping children and families access the physical, social and mental health benefits of sport.
What began as a simple idea quickly became something much bigger. The students planned the campaign, sought permissions from their schools, designed posters and messages and spread the word among classmates and families. Week by week, the donation pile grew.
Their trainer, Claire Baker, said watching it all come together was an emotional moment.
“I was nearly in tears with how proud I am of all of them. Seeing the students walk in with bag after bag of donations was overwhelming.”
The project taught the group that meaningful change requires planning, communication and teamwork. They learned how to coordinate tasks, present ideas to classmates and stakeholders and work through unexpected challenges. More importantly, they learned about empathy — and how small actions can help others.
Some students displayed exceptional leadership.
Zeeahara, who Claire describes as bright, articulate and always lifting others, was a key motivator in the group.
Matilda consistently supported her classmates and showed maturity, compassion and strong time-management skills.
Finn helped keep the team organised and encouraged others to participate.
Together, the group collected a large volume of equipment: basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, netballs, sneakers, bibs, cricket gear and assorted training resources — all destined for rural communities that need them most.
The presentation of the donations to Fair Game will take place soon, with support from VTS Business Development & Client Relationship Manager Kathy Whitcher.
This project opened the students’ eyes to how little some communities have and how fortunate they are to be in a position to help. Their enthusiasm, teamwork and generosity are a credit to their schools and their families — and a reflection of the leadership qualities they continue to build through their training.
VTS is proud of these young people and grateful to all who supported the project. Their effort shows what can happen when students are given the opportunity to lead with purpose.
Studying while juggling work, family and community commitments is a tough gig—especially across regional WA. At VTS, we want our students to know we see the effort they put in, the distances they travel and the challenges they push through. The VTS Regional Student of the Month award recognises that commitment. It may honour a student who achieves outstanding results, or someone who has persevered through difficult circumstances and keeps moving toward their learning goals.
The VTS Regional Student of the Month for March 2026 was:
Matthew Nandoo. Matthew joined the SEE Program at a challenging point in his life, but from day one he showed up with commitment, reliability and a willingness to learn. Through consistent attendance he has paid off a significant amount of outstanding fines and credits training with helping him get his life back on track. Always well-presented and professional, Matthew brings motivation and a strong work ethic to every session. Building on his progress, he has recently commenced a Certificate I in Leadership — a well-deserved next step in his journey.
The VTS Regional Student of the Month for February 2026 was:
Sherena Jumburra. Sherena has shown incredible determination throughout her studies, pushing forward with her Certificate I in Leadership despite facing personal challenges along the way. She brings a positive attitude to every session, works well both independently and in a team, and is never afraid to ask for support when she needs it. Sherena’s perseverance and strong work ethic are a true testament to her commitment to her own growth and learning journey.
⭐ Also nominated this month
Sheena Mariboa—SEE Program Ready to Lead
The VTS Regional Student of the Month for November 2025 was:
Eric Baddeley. Since joining the SEE program in October, Eric has been a dedicated and consistent learner, approaching every new task with genuine enthusiasm. His goal of developing digital skills for future employment drives his commitment to the program.
Eric’s friendly and supportive nature contributes positively to the class environment, making him a valued member of the group. He recently created his first PowerPoint presentation on Jaguar cars, which was both informative and well-received by his peers. His steady progress and positive attitude make him an excellent example of what dedication can achieve. Congratulations, Eric!
⭐ Also nominated this month
Gypsy Byrne—Certificate II in Workplace Skills, Karratha
The VTS Regional Student of the Month for October 2025 was:
Jenny Butt. As one of the top artists in Bidgyadanga and the region, Jenny balances showcasing her artwork with an unwavering commitment to learning. She’s consistently one of the first to arrive and last to leave, eagerly developing digital skills in email, poster design and PowerPoint presentations.
Jenny is dedicated to sharing her experience with the community, actively explaining the benefits of the SEE program and inspiring others to get involved. She pushes herself and her team to step outside their comfort zones, and her enthusiasm for presenting is contagious. Congratulations, Jenny!
⭐ Also nominated this month
Wendy James—SEE Program Broome Veronica Yanawana—SEE Program Lagrange Bidyadanga
The VTS Regional Student of the Month for September 2025 was:
Marcus Rose has reached an incredible milestone—1,000 hours of attendance in our Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) program at VTS Derby. This achievement speaks volumes about his dedication and commitment to learning.
Well-known and respected throughout the Derby community, Marcus brings energy and enthusiasm to the venue that makes him a pleasure to work with. He’s not just attending—he’s actively developing new skills every day and continuing to build on his qualifications with VTS Derby.
Marcus faces his share of challenges, but he meets each one head-on and pushes through with determination. His reliability, motivation and unwavering commitment make him an outstanding student who truly deserves recognition. His attendance record is remarkable, but it’s his character and drive that make him genuinely exceptional.
⭐ Also nominated this month
Neil Francis—Certificate II in Workplace Skills/SEE Program Broome Joana Da Graca—Learn Plan and Create/SEE Program Broome
The VTS Regional Student of the Month for July 2025 was:
Dora Smith’s journey as a VTS student exemplifies the transformative power of education and determination. Despite facing personal challenges that could have derailed her studies, Dora has demonstrated remarkable resilience, using these experiences to fuel her commitment to learning rather than letting them become obstacles. Her dedication to developing work-ready skills has been unwavering and she approaches each learning opportunity with the kind of enthusiasm that inspires both instructors and fellow students. What sets Dora apart is not just her academic progress, but the positive atmosphere she creates wherever she goes – her natural warmth, infectious humor and optimistic outlook have made the classroom a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.
The true measure of Dora’s growth became evident when she recently co-facilitated a training session, receiving outstanding feedback that highlighted her natural leadership abilities and training potential. This achievement represents more than just a successful presentation; it demonstrates her evolution from student to emerging educator, showcasing the confidence and skills she has developed throughout her VTS journey. Her proactive approach to career planning, particularly her clear goal of becoming a trainer, reflects a student who doesn’t just participate in her education but takes ownership of it. Dora’s recognition as Regional Student of the Month celebrates not only her academic achievements but also her ability to lift others while pursuing her own dreams, embodying the very best qualities of what vocational education can nurture and develop.
⭐ Also nominated this month
Marie (Glenda) Lisciandro—Digital Job Ready Program and SEE Program Broome Dylan Malone—Karratha
At VTS, we believe the best learning happens when students get their hands dirty – or in this case, when they get their hands on the coffee machine! Our SIT30622 Certificate III in Hospitality program continues to deliver exceptional results, transforming nervous beginners into confident hospitality professionals.
From Classroom to Café: Students Shine at Campus Events
This month, our VTS Career Café became the perfect training ground when our Certificate III in Hospitality students took center stage, hosting a Campus Walk Through & Morning Tea event. What started as nervous energy during setup quickly transformed into confident smiles and professional service as students served barista-made coffees, fresh muffins, croissants and sweet treats to impressed guests.
This hands-on experience exemplifies our approach to hospitality training – real customers, real service and real growth. Watching our students develop from hesitant beginners to confident service professionals is what makes our job so rewarding.
Barista Skills: The Perfect Blend of Fun and Career Development
Our weekly Barista Skills sessions have become a highlight for both students and staff (who can resist great coffee?). These practical sessions are integral to the Certificate III in Hospitality curriculum, where students master essential food and beverage service skills.
From perfecting milk steaming techniques to delivering exceptional customer service, every element is designed to make our graduates job-ready from day one.
▪ Cannington — 8-week intensive program from Monday to Thursday
▪ Joondalup — 10-week intensive program from Monday to Wednesday
▪ Comprehensive hands-on training
Real-World Experience:
▪ 36 service shifts work placement
▪ VTS support to secure placements through our extensive hospitality network
▪ Training in cafés, restaurants, pubs and hotels
Next Intake: October 2025
The hospitality industry offers diverse career opportunities, from bustling cafés to fine dining establishments, boutique hotels to entertainment venues. Our program ensures you’ll enter this exciting field with the skills, confidence and industry connections needed to succeed.
For detailed information about fees, charges, and enrolment, contact our friendly team. Take the next step towards building your hospitality career with the confidence and support that VTS is known for.
The article showcases how Vocational Training Services is supporting local community members in the Pilbara by delivering nationally recognised training that builds skills, confidence, and future opportunities.
