Student of the Month
Studying while juggling work, social and family life, is a tough gig. We feel that it’s important that our students understand that we appreciate the time and effort they put into their studies. The VTS Student of the Month award recognises the hard work and commitment put in by our students. This student could be someone who achieves outstanding results, or it could be a student who has persevered through difficult challenges and continues to achieve their learning goals.
The VTS Student of the Month for April 2025 was:
We’re proud to recognise Alana Brochard as our Student of the Month. Alana is a mature-age Certificate III in Commercial Cookery student based at Burrata Wood Fired Cafe in Albany. Balancing the demands of being a single mum and managing a busy professional kitchen, Alana continues to show exceptional dedication to her training.
She has completed all open assessments to an outstanding standard and is known for her clear, professional communication. Alana is one of Burrata’s most committed and loyal team members—consistently putting the needs of the workplace first.
Punctual, innovative and creative in everything she does, Alana approaches every task with care and professionalism. Her strong work ethic and positive attitude make her an invaluable asset to the team.
⭐ Also nominated this month
Karen Markham—Hospitality student at Joondalup
Solana Vo—School-Based Trainee at John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School
The VTS Student of the Month for March 2025 was:
Will Tsocas! Will is a school-based trainee at John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School and has been recognised for his outstanding attitude, consistent attendance and strong leadership qualities.
Will regularly supports the chef by supervising his peers and has taken on a mentoring role, helping Year 11 students understand kitchen procedures. He is also diligent in his studies—always up to date with his theory work and committed to maintaining high standards in both practical and academic tasks.
⭐ Also nominated this month
Amelia Bell—completing her traineeship at Madalenas Bar
The VTS Student of the Month for February 2025 was:
Olivia Erasmus! Hard work, passion, and dedication have paid off for Olivia, a standout student in the Future Chef Program. Throughout her training, Olivia demonstrated a strong work ethic, a keen ability to learn new skills quickly, and a genuine love for cooking.
During her work placement at Market Grounds, Olivia impressed her team with her professionalism, teamwork, and attention to detail. Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed—her employers were so impressed that they offered her a job!
Olivia is set to begin her part-time role at Market Grounds in Perth City, with plans to transition to full-time. There’s also potential for a traineeship, providing her with an exciting pathway to further develop her skills. This opportunity marks the next step in her culinary journey, and we can’t wait to see where her passion and talent take her.
⭐ Also nominated this month
Will Tsocas—School-Based Trainee at John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School
The VTS Students of the Month for November 2024 were:
At VTS, we believe that vocational training transforms lives, providing pathways to meaningful employment and personal growth. One shining example of this is our chef training program, delivered at Wooroloo Prison Farm. These programs equip participants with professional culinary skills that meet industry standards, preparing them for rewarding careers post-release.
This month, VTS trainer Chris, who has been working with the students at Wooroloo Prison Farm nominated three trainees for the Student of the Month award, highlighting their exceptional performance in two key units: SITHCCC036 – Prepare Meat Dishes and SITHCCC037 – Prepare Seafood Dishes.
The trainees have been praised for their dedication, commitment, and eagerness to learn. They have not only excelled in their coursework but have also gone above and beyond in their roles, demonstrating initiative, teamwork, and enthusiasm.
Programs like these reflect VTS’s commitment to delivering high-impact, real-world training that empowers individuals to build brighter futures. We’re proud of the outstanding achievements of our trainees and their journey toward becoming skilled professionals in the culinary world.
VTS also partners with schools across Perth to deliver high-quality, school-based training that equips students with valuable skills and real-world experience. At John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School, we provide hospitality training that has seen students thrive, including our November Student of the Month, Yabsira. Despite a challenging start, Yabsira has shown remarkable growth and was also nominated by the school for the Year 11 Trainee of the Year award. The Student of the Month initiative has been a hit at John Septimus Roe, fostering friendly competition and inspiring students to excel in their training.
The VTS Student of the Month for October 2024 is:
Kayden T! Kayden’s dedication and determination have made him a standout student in his training. He approaches every task with a strong work ethic, ensuring his theory work is thorough and well-researched and asking for assistance when needed to deepen his understanding.
In the kitchen, his skills continue to grow, and his attention to detail is evident in the high standard of work he produces. His progress has been so remarkable that he no longer requires support from his EA during practical sessions—an incredible achievement that reflects his confidence and capability.
Beyond his skills, Kayden’s positive energy is contagious. He brings a smile to everyone’s face with his enthusiasm, greeting classmates and trainers with warmth and excitement.
Congratulations, Kayden! Your hard work and uplifting spirit are an inspiration to all.
The VTS Student of the Month for September 2024 is:
Mitchell Douglas. Passion, dedication and an unwavering commitment to the craft of cooking have made Mitch a standout student in the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Lalla Rookh. His enthusiasm for the industry is second to none, and his drive to excel has been evident in his impressive progress over the past two months. Congratulations Mitch.
The VTS Students of the Month for August 2024 are:
Noor Subha who completed Certificate IV qualifications in business, leadership and management. Noor was an excellent trainee who was committed to completing every unit each month.
The second Student of the Month is Danika B, a school-based trainee at Kingsway Christian College. Danika is a true quiet achiever who exemplifies leadership, maturity, and self-discipline. Currently completing her Certificate II in Cookery, Danika approaches every task with professionalism, precision, and a meticulous work ethic that sets her apart.
Danika follows in the footsteps of her older brother, Makan, who was awarded Student of the Month at KCC two years ago. While her future career path may take her beyond hospitality, she possesses an invaluable sense of responsibility, punctuality, and a strong work ethic—qualities that will serve her well in any field.
The VTS Student of the Month for July 2024 is:
Kaitland Kelly. Kaitland is a school-based trainee completing a Certificate II in Workplace Skills through Maxima Group Training, hosted by Westpac Geraldton. Determined to succeed, Kaitland has been working closely with her VET Coordinator, dedicating extra study time each week to ensure she remains on top of her assessments. Even when faced with challenges, she maintains a strong focus and unwavering determination, making her progress an inspiration to those around her.
The VTS Student of the Month for May 2024 is:
Joanna B, known to her friends as Chi Chi. Chi Chi has truly excelled this term, proving herself to be a dedicated and hardworking student in the hospitality program. As a quiet achiever, she listens carefully to guidance from her trainers, including Mrs. Edwards and Chef Paul, and applies herself diligently to every task. Her theory work is of high quality, and her kitchen skills are equally impressive, demonstrating both precision and professionalism.
The VTS Student of the Month for April 2024 is:
Layla Cassian. Layla, a Certificate III in Hospitality student at Mundaring Christian College, has shown incredible self-motivation, confidence, and enthusiasm. Nominated by VTS Trainer Chris Martin, Layla consistently maintains high standards in her assessments and logbooks.
At the beginning of the year, Layla led the bakery, short order, and larder sections of the kitchen filling in for the Café Manager who was away on long service leave. Layla admirably stepped up, guiding her fellow trainees with ease. Her willingness to take on any task and her commitment to excellence truly set her apart.
Congratulations, Layla, on this well-deserved recognition! ⭐
The VTS Student of the Month for March 2024 was jointly awarded to two hard-working students from John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School: Kimberly Edmonds and Chris Loruwi. Both of these students have worked exceptionally hard to get their units up to date.
The VTS Student of the Month for February 2024 was Chloe Tinley. Chloe, a dedicated Year 11 student from Kingsway Christian College, is currently excelling in her Certificate II in Cookery through our school-based traineeship program. Chloe’s passion for learning, coupled with her natural leadership qualities, sets her apart. She consistently demonstrates a willingness to go above and beyond, making her an absolute pleasure to train. Her commitment to excellence is truly inspiring! Congratulations, Chloe, on this well-deserved recognition. Your hard work and dedication are a shining example to us all. Keep up the fantastic work!