Madeleine Hatchard – Class of 2010
Sean O’Connor – Class of 2012
The joint winners of this year’s Bendigo Tafe Apprentice of the Year Award have a couple of things in common – they are both BSSC Alumni, and both have a deep-seeded passion for their field and a drive to succeed.
Sean, who graduated from BSSC in 2012, has had an interest in carpentry from a young age.
“I’ve always liked the construction industry and using my hands, and I like the idea of having transferrable skills,” Sean said.
He was successful in gaining an Australian Defence Force Scholarship in both 2011 and 2012 while at BSSC. BSSC’s VET and RTO Manager Jenny Moloney believes Sean’s ability to secure two ADF scholarships is testament to his focus on a trade career and his ability to talk about and demonstrate leadership, teamwork and community involvement.
“It’s great to see that Sean has continued to develop his trade training and career goals,” she said.
His next goal is to complete the Certificate IV in Building and Construction, with his ultimate goal to become a registered builder.
Unlike Sean, Madeleine didn’t always know she would develop a passion for painting and decorating. After finishing her VCE at BSSC in 2010, Madeleine was accepted into her chosen uni course, but changed her mind. Clearly, she has never looked back.
Madeleine is looking to add an Interior Design qualification to her apprenticeship and eventually open her own painting and decorating business that incorporates interior design aspects.
BSSC wishes Sean and Madeleine the best of luck in their future enterprises.
