
Regional Student of the Month
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 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.
Marcus has already completed his Certificate I and II in Leadership, along with the RSA and SIRSS00022 Manage disrespectful, aggressive or abusive customers skill sets. But what truly sets him apart is his consistency. He shows up every single day, rain or shine, riding his bike to training with a positive attitude that’s infectious to everyone around him.
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