Changing careers can be a daunting experience, especially for someone with children, a granddaughter, and a small business.
For Leah Ward, a trainee at Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH), this change is now possible.
“I’ve always talked to my kids about education and its importance. But I’ve never had it. And now I’m 40, and I’m doing something for me,” Leah said.
Leah, known in Lakes Entrance for her work in hospitality, began her traineeship in health promotion to gain recognised qualifications while working.
She aspires to be a role model for her daughters and granddaughter, demonstrating what is possible with education.
Having moved to Lakes Entrance from Melbourne six years ago, Leah is also eager to give back to the community she loves.
“I want to help people feel good. That’s the rewarding part; I’m learning and then I can help others learn as well,” she said.
Leah’s daughter, Reagan Faith, is also a trainee at Gippsland Lakes Complete Health, studying to become an allied health assistant.
Now in its fourth year, GLCH’s award-winning traineeship program is part of GLCH’s commitment to employing East Gippslanders and growing local talent to work in community health.
Each trainee works and studies for a diploma, certificate III or certificate IV, receiving supportive coaching and mentoring, hands-on learning, paid study time and regular group education sessions.
Chief operating officer Rebecca Woodland said the trainees’ time with GLCH would be full of both challenges and rewards.
“Our traineeships are an opportunity to invest in the most valuable resource of East Gippsland – it’s people. It’s a chance to help locals study, upskill, and grow our local talent right here,” she said.
If you, or someone you know, is keen to pursue a career in health, applications for GLCH’s 2026 traineeship
intake will open later this year.
