Hear from our students
0001-01-01
Commercial Cookery
“My favourite part about studying at The Gordon is the hands-on experience in the kitchen supervised by great teachers. Practical cooking sessions allow me to apply class knowledge and theory to develop my culinary skills, alongside other students.
The comprehensive curriculum, experienced teachers, industry relevant training and learning environment that simulate real-world experiences have equipped me with skills necessary to excel in the culinary world.
I am confident the skills I’m developing will contribute to securing my dream job. I actually got my first job as a chef at a reputable Japanese restaurant in Geelong, after just 3 months of studying!”
Oscar Geovanni
Commercial Cookery Package
“I chose to study at The Gordon as they have an excellent reputation, with a lot of great chefs who have graduated and now own their own restaurants.
All the teachers are professional and experienced and they make the training interesting and memorable. I have not only learned how to cook a great meal, but also learned how to be a team player. After studying with my classmates all year, we have become like a family. We study from each other, help each other, and have a lot of fun. As an international student I was always shy to speak out, but in the cookery industry you have to communicate with others and my English has improved dramatically. I’ve not only learnt English, but also some specialised words in French, Italian, Japanese and others.
I am now working in a local restaurant and continuing my studies at Certificate IV level to gain more knowledge and experience. I hope to own my own small restaurant one day.”
Bo Li (Allen)
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
Recipient of 2016 The Gordon International Student of the Year Award
Early Childhood Education
“I chose to study in Geelong because it has beautiful landscape views, rather than tall buildings. The best thing about studying in Geelong is being able to go for a walk at the beach when I need to de-stress.
The Gordon has supported me to pave my way to success in the childhood education sector by providing thoughtful, amazing facilities and support to help students learn effectively and build their career pathway. They deliver professional education from very experienced teachers, showering us with important and realistic information about the ECEC sector.
I’m grateful to have received a job offer after my first placement, and aspire to create my own business one day, which helps children to grow and develop.”
Zi Ern Cheng
Early Childhood Education and Care
“My name is Francoise. I’m 36 years old and am a refugee from Congo in Africa. I speak six languages including English. When I first went to The Gordon I honestly had, in a single word, nothing. I lacked skill, experience and all I was looking and hoping for was simple. I started studying English as another language. Once I completed all English language certificates I went on to study Certificate III in Children’s Services, then my diploma.
The experience of studying at The Gordon was more than I could have ever asked for. The quality of teaching and the care and support I received was what really stood out for me. The Gordon has provided the pathway to many possible careers in the future and ones I never thought were possible. Not only did they help me apply for university, they also assisted me with my resume and I am now working full time at Kardinia childcare and Kindergarten Geelong.”
Francoise Zaninka
Diploma of Early Childhood Education
Laboratory Technology
“I chose to study Lab Tech because I’ve always been passionate about science, since college, and The Gordon course offered more hands-on practicals than paperwork and helped me step into my dream career of becoming a lab technician.
My favourite part about studying at The Gordon is the teachers who are really kind and helpful, we always had the teacher here to help us every time we had a question or a doubt, alongside the practical focus of coursework.
In the future, I would like to continue on with a lab technician job and do further studies.”
Marie Alphonse
Certificate IV in Laboratory Technology
Diploma of Laboratory Technology
“Before I came to The Gordon I was a very shy person and in Australia I have boosted my confidence. Australia is welcoming to different people. It’s a good country as it’s very multicultural. The teachers are very welcoming also, they are nice and kind. If you have problems or questions they are there for you. If you need something all you have to do is ask.
The education here is very good and I am enjoying studying the Diploma of Laboratory Technology. When I graduate I want to work in a wine laboratory. Testing the wine and how it ferments is very interesting to me. I like that The Gordon has classes in food and wine testing so that I can learn more about this area – I think I’ve chosen the right place to study.”
Jessica Olpindo
Diploma of Laboratory Technology
Nursing
“My course is really amazing. What I like most are the lab classes and practical work, which is fantastic and gives me confidence and enthusiasm – it makes me feel ready to work.
The Gordon gives me practical skills, hands-on experiences, exposure to real-world healthcare settings and comprehensive theoretical knowledge.
The quality of the nursing program, support from my teachers and the opportunities for clinical placements are helping me to grow into a successful career. So far, I’ve completed two placements totalling 200 hours, at Barwon Health and a GP clinic.
My future goal is to do further study to become a Registered Nurse, specialising in theatre nursing.
I highly recommend every student to study at The Gordon – especially international students. The Gordon staff are very humble, nice, helpful and just wonderful, so it makes my course very easy!”
Hajra Bibi
Diploma of Nursing
"Nursing has been a dream career of mine. After serving in the Police Force in Singapore, I decided it was time to pursue my dream in Australia.
My first day on-campus was not as intimidating as I thought it would be. The teachers were really friendly and initiated icebreaker games to help the class get to know one another. Everyone felt really comfortable and settled in well, and I made friends with both Australian and international students in my class.
I did my work placement in two different aged care facilities. I enjoyed being able to help the residents and being able to link what I have learnt in the classroom to actual work in the real world.
The Gordon in Geelong provides a positive environment for all students and the course framework is exceptional. Everyone is given a chance to progress at their own pace and support is provided at all times by Gordon staff members. I am loving every second of living and studying in Geelong."
Sha Zaini
Diploma of Nursing
Recipient of the 2017 International Student of the Year Award
“I am happy I made the Gordon Institute of TAFE my study destination; I could not have had it any better. Being a TAFE, I felt the practical approach and real experience would help me further my studies and career path.
The teachers are a great asset. The amount of care and attention they provide exceeds expectations. I go to class every morning knowing that I have their full backing and support. Lessons are broken down into very simple and concise parts, our nursing labs are fully equipped with state of the art tools and our lesson plans are set up to match the current needs of the workforce.
The students are very welcoming and ready to interact. I have made friends who have become family. The multicultural environment made settling in a lot easier. Finding my way around during the first few weeks of admission was no problem because staff are always ready to direct you to your destination.”
Yakubu Daffi
Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled-Division 2 nursing)