After a hiatus in studying for more than 15 years, Simon Watts took his ultimate career ride into Wodonga TAFE to embrace a Community Services Diploma.

The course gave Simon the skills to coordinate and deliver person-centred services and programs, and insights that fuelled his passion to work in community early intervention.

Through his training Simon developed confidence in his ability to learn, study and educate others. This passion and commitment led Simon to being awarded the 2019 Student of the Year by Wodonga TAFE.

As a residential carer for Junction Support Services, the young people in Simon’s care feel safe to disclose traumatic events to him. Through positive role modelling and an optimistic attitude, Simon demonstrates everyone has options and that change starts with them.