For Sharmila Rahim, teaching is about more than delivering course content. It's about helping students build confidence, overcome challenges and recognise their own potential. As an Early Childhood Education and Care and School Based Education Support teacher at Kangan Institute, she is passionate about creating a supportive learning environment where students feel valued, empowered and capable of achieving their goals. Read Sharmila's story and discover why she finds it so rewarding to help students transform into confident education professionals.
Sharmila has been a trainer and assessor for nine years, but her pathway into teaching began while she was studying her own Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50125). During her studies, she regularly supported classmates who were struggling to understand course content, helping explain concepts in different ways and building their confidence. It was during this time that a training provider recognised her natural ability to teach and encouraged her to pursue a career in training and assessment. That conversation ultimately changed the direction of her career.
One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching for Sharmila is witnessing the transformation that takes place in her students.
Many students arrive unsure of themselves, juggling family commitments, work responsibilities and personal challenges. Over time, she sees them grow in confidence, develop new skills and begin to believe in their own abilities. Watching students discover their strengths, support one another and pursue opportunities they may never have considered is what makes teaching so meaningful.
As a relationship-focused teacher, Sharmila believes that strong connections are at the heart of student success.
Some of her most memorable moments have been watching students who initially lacked confidence become active participants in class, support their peers and take pride in their achievements. One of her greatest joys is seeing former students progress into leadership positions within the sector. Today, many of those former students are service managers who provide placement opportunities for current Kangan Institute students, creating a cycle of support and success.
Sharmila describes Kangan Institute as a welcoming and inclusive community where students are supported by a network of people who genuinely care about their success.
From teachers and wellbeing services to student support teams and career advisors, students have access to a wide range of resources designed to help them navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
As Sharmila says, "It takes a village to raise a child". She believes the same is true for students, with everyone at Kangan playing a role in helping learners succeed.
For anyone considering a career in Early Childhood Education and Care, Sharmila has a simple message: it is one of the most rewarding professions you can choose.
Not only does the sector offer strong employment opportunities and career progression pathways, but it also provides the chance to make a genuine difference in the lives of children, families and communities. Every day brings opportunities to support learning, encourage development and help shape the future.
For Sharmila, there is no greater reward than seeing students discover what they are capable of and helping them take the next step towards a meaningful and fulfilling career.
At Kangan Institute, you'll learn from passionate and experienced teachers like Sharmila, who are committed to helping students build confidence, overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Whether you're starting your first qualification or looking for a meaningful career change, our courses provide the practical skills, industry connections and student support to help you succeed.
Explore courses at Kangan Institute today.
