Learning has opened many doors

Kerry Leigh, a 40-year-old mother of three, now works as a full-time dairy farmer at Aurora Dairies in Hamilton. She currently holds the position of senior farmhand and is set to be promoted to Assistant Manager in June. Kerry’s two-year learning journey began when she started milking cows and her manager suggested she enrol in an agriculture course at RIST (Rural Industry Skills Training). There was no turning back from that point. Kerry completed several Learn Local courses, including Agriculture Work Health and Safety, Ruminant Nutrition, Introduction to Animal Nutrition, Introduction to Soils, and Pasture Plants for Production. Kerry Leigh is currently enrolled in Certificate IV in Agriculture and has only four more units to complete before finishing the course. She is already thinking about pursuing her Diploma in Agriculture.

Kerry remembers her manager providing information and supporting her throughout her studies at RIST and work. Kerry’s trainers, Gaye, Kate, and Melissa were willing to work around her schedule and were always available when she needed resources or study support. She believes that these opportunities opened more doors, leading to her nomination for the Employee Award in the Grand Southwest Dairy Awards.

Kerry Leigh feels that her experience as an adult learner has been quite different and more relaxed than when she was in school. She describes the adult learning environment as supportive, nurturing, and flexible. Kerry said that her learning journey was positive, enhancing both her literacy and capability.