STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES

We are very proud of our students and regularly keep in touch to see how they are getting on. Here are a few of our WiseClick Certificate students, it’s always interesting to see where they end up after they complete their course with us.
Kerry Maddern
Kerry Maddern - Completed May 2023

Course Studied: Cert IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping

Kerry’s Story:

In 2022 I was at a cross- roads of where my working life was going.

I was an Educational Assistant in Pre-Primary and loved my job, but the two- hour travel time each day and the toll that the job was taking on my health physically, it came to a point where I made the decision that I needed a new direction.

I was not sure of where or what I was going to do and after a bit of google search I came across “Busy At Work”. They helped me through the Skills Checkpoint Programme for older workers. It’s a government programme designed to look at the skills and career opportunities that are available. They have personalised, one to one assistance. Also, they have government incentives to help you with your upskilling. Once I decided on my new career path and what training I required, Busy at Work put me in touch with the amazing and supportive Wiseclick Training, and a brand-new Adventure!

I was very nervous about re-training in something very different, I have always lack confidence in myself and my ability, but I was determined to give it a go. I had my first meeting with Sarah (Student Administrator) and she methodically went through each unit and straight away I knew that I was in the right place to start my learning journey.

I had decided to do my studies online and I was not sure how this was all going to work out or if in-deed I could do it.

I was so surprised how easy it was to setup at home and with all the detailed instructions and numerous support methods which included student email, phone contact, one on one online or in person support- it made a huge difference.

Throughout my learning process I have been very guided in Wiseclick and their recommendation’s. I have found these invaluable, especially the ICB (The Institute of Bookkeepers) the meetings are free for students. Their meetings are currently online and are once a month for 2 hours. I have attended each one since starting my studies, and as I have previously said I lack confidence and was very nervous about joining the first meeting, but again have been really surprised by how supportive and inclusive the group was. Now I would not miss a meeting. They have access to so much information – which at the beginning would fly over my head, but now with the knowledge that I have gained through my training I feel really at ease.

Was My Learning Journey Easy?

Most of it I would say, “Yes” But did I have days where I wasn’t sure if I could do it…Absolutely! I can only emphasize how much support I received from the WiseClick team. When I struggled or self-doubted – their knowledge and guidance got me through those times.

So, What Happens Next?

Well, I have just finished and completed my certificate and straight away I started applying for positions. With the training, direction and guidance given to me I have been able to find my first ever bookkeeping position. It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for and I really look forward to seeing where it takes me.

My confidence has grown, and I feel so pleased that I’ve taken this journey and I will always be grateful to Sarah, Tarryn and Maeve.

To those who wish to travel down this road, please be assured that you are in safe hands with WiseClick!

Student Holding qualifications
Eliza Kenna - Incredible Resilience

Course Studied: Cert IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping

Eliza’s Story below after hearing she was nominated for the ICB Student of the Year Award – Eliza has now completed the courses in July 2022

What an emotional phone call this morning! I feel incredibly honoured and proud to be nominated for the ICB Student of Year award. I have had the most wonderful support from my ‘rehab team’ at Wiseclick. I would not be nearing completion without your incredible support and build of my confidence. I am looking forward to sharing this news with my ‘medical rehab team’ at Royal Rehab Hospital, Sydney! 

My accident happened just over two years ago on the 28th of March 2020 in Kojonup, Western Australia. I was thrown off my horse when checking cattle at work and suffered a severe Traumatic Brain Injury. I was flown to Royal Perth Hospital and underwent emergency neurosurgery and craniotomy, to relieve bleeding on my brain. I had three different types of brain bleeds, extradural haematoma, subdural haematoma & subarachnoid haemorrhage. I was in a coma for a week and spent nearly two months in hospital.

As a result of the brain injury I have loss of brain tissue (encephalomalacia) in the left temporal lobe – which is responsible for understanding language, learning, memorizing, forming speech and remembering verbal information. 

I also have ongoing chronic headaches & fatigue. Thankfully my hearing, speech impairment (mild dysphasia), executive functioning and troubles remembering words are improving with ongoing speech therapy. 

 I was eager to get back to my studies post injury, but my medical team wanted me to focus on my rehab with physiotherapy, speech therapists, occupational therapists and psychologists. It wasn’t until a year post injury that my medical team felt I was able to return to studies. 

My studies with Wiseclick are the best, most challenging and authentic brain training and rehab I could undertake. 

I remember many phone calls with Wiseclick where I was stuttering or unable to communicate properly. Although awfully embarrassing and frustrating, the team at Wiseclick were incredibly patient and understanding.

It has been a real comfort having walked this journey with Wiseclick. They knew me pre-injury and have seen me at my lowest point post injury and continue to see me improve with time. I’m very grateful for their ongoing support and patience.

Kind regards,

Eliza Kenna

A note from Wiseclick about the incredible story above – 

Eliza has shown outstanding commitment to her studies and never gave up, we are so proud to say we have helped her achieve the completion of her Certificate. We hope this story that Eliza has so kindly let us share can help to inspire others to never give up. 

Bev Alejandre
Bev Alejandre

Course Studied: Cert IV in Bookkeeping

Originally from the Philippines, Bev Alejandre wanted to become a qualified bookkeeper, and so enrolled onto WiseClick’s Cert III in bookkeeping course. Previously in the Philippines, she was a loan officer for bookkeeping as well as having experience as an accountant. When Bev moved to Australia, there were a lot of different accounting software to use, which she tried to learn via online training modules. With the lack of personal interaction to answer queries, Bev opted to learn in the classroom.

The course structure was great, it was a real eye-opener and very interesting. There was a lot of difference from what I was used to back home. The theory is the same, but I learnt the Australian way of applying it. I liked everything about the course. The classroom is clean and has all the required equipment. The trainer was fantastic, with a very professional set up.

I’ve progressed with my studies and found work through Wiseclick’s job placement register. I’m hoping to take exams this year to become a qualified CPA.

Interested in advancing your skillset, or progressing with your career? Join us at one of our free morning teas to find out what it takes to become a bookkeeper. Keep an eye on Wiseclick’s Facebook page for upcoming events.

Deb
Deb Konz

Course Studied: Cert IV in Bookkeeping

Deb was working in bookkeeping before starting the course. Whilst having proficient experience and skills by learning on the job, she wanted to study to become a certified bookkeeper and receive the qualification. Deb didn’t want to study online, so after a referral from a colleague, she enrolled with WiseClick.

The course was fantastic and I learnt a lot! I particularly enjoyed learning the cash and accrual accounting units as they put things into perspective and it all gelled with me from there. My Excel and Word skills have improved. My spreadsheets are a lot more professional and accurate.

I’m still working as a bookkeeper. I’m doing lots of online courses while recuperating from an operation, and have completed the Pure Bookkeeping course which has tied it all together for me. It’s great to be fully qualified!

Interested in advancing your skillset, or progressing with your career? Join us at one of our free morning teas to find out what it takes to become a bookkeeper. Keep an eye on Wiseclick’s Facebook page for upcoming events.

leonie-forster
Leonie Forster

What was your occupation when you started the course? Office Manager

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To become a qualified bookkeeper and to understand the financial workings of a business

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? Full-time but would like to find some contract bookkeeping work

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? My own small bookkeeping business

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Would like to become a BAS Agent. May go on to look at the Cert IV in Accounting.

marianne
Marianne Steur

What was your occupation when you started the course? I had taken voluntary redundancy from the government where I was working as an Executive Assistant, in order to pursue a career in bookkeeping. The redundancy made it possible to study.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To become a qualified bookkeeper, as a contractor or as a full-time employee.

What are you doing now? I have found full-time work as an Accounts Manager for a company that offers Business Management solutions to small businesses, among which accounts management. At the moment I am managing the accounts for 8 businesses and payroll for 4.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? I will possibly still be where I am now. As the company is still in its beginning stages, there is great potential for growth and for me to move into a management role.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? I will possibly pursue the Diploma in Accounting after Christmas which will give me further training in reporting.

m-harrison
Michelle Harrison – ICB Outstanding Student Award for 2013

“Enrolling and completing the Certificate IV in Bookkeeping course with WiseClick was the best decision I made when I moved to Australia as bookkeeping is different in so many areas here compared to the UK.

I worked for a while as a bookkeeper while studying and for 6 months afterwards. I am now an Accountant in Corporate and enrolled in the Diploma of Accounting.”

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Janine Bailey

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To learn and be more proficient in Excel.

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? Full-time Bookkeeper with a number of clients.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? The same or perhaps have an employee.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Just busy keeping up with the ATO, MYOB and general bookkeeping issues.

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Diane Boyce

What was your occupation when you started the course? I was doing bookkeeping for various employers / clients.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To finish quickly and get qualified. Unfortunately, I really battled to find any time for my assignments and it took me forever to complete the course. Very hard to work full time, be a mum/homemaker and do the assignments.

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? I have a lot of clients unfortunately too many of them are once a month or once a quarter. I would like to find a day or two each week which is fixed.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? I hope to be doing what I am as I enjoy the flexibility, but want to be earning more!

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? I would like to do an accounting/marketing degree.

avrel
Avrel Ford

What was your occupation when you started the course? Bookkeeper.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To have a qualification in MYOB.

What are you doing now? Bookkeeping for our own company and casual bookkeeping.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? In Broome bookkeeping for various companies.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Possibly furthering my MYOB skills.

kathleen
Kathleen Ray

What was your occupation when you started the course? Unemployed.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To get the qualification then get a job.

What are you doing now? Looking for work, 3-4 days a week school hours, half hour 45 minute arc from Beckenham.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? Close to getting my 1400 hours up.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Possibly, the Diploma.

Update – Kathleen obtained a role suiting her requirements within 6 weeks of completion.

estilita
Estilita Ramos

What was your occupation when you started the course? Account Assistant

Your aspirations at the start of the course? BAS Agent

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? Working as Accounts Manager At Screentech Pty Ltd

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? Still working at Screentech Pty Ltd

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Yes but still thinking about it.

michelle-diblasi
Michelle DiBlasi

What was your occupation when you started the course? Office Admin All-rounder (Payroll, Invoicing, Purchasing, payments, secretarial, website maintenance, etc.) and business owner of a small secretarial business from home.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? I wanted a change in career path as I hold a Diploma in Secretarial & Business Studies and have been doing this for 20 years. The past 12 years, as a business owner, I have self-taught myself MYOB to get by lodging BAS Statements. Since being employed with my current employer for the past 2 years, it has been possible to obtain a Traineeship through WiseClick so that I can become qualified at my job.

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? I am still working for my Employer, Commercial Wire Products, as their bookkeeper/office all-rounder on a permanent, part-time basis. I also do bookkeeping for a client on a monthly basis.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? Still employed and to continue being a contracting bookkeeper part-time to gain more confidence and experience!

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Yes! Certificate IV in Financial Services next year and am looking forward to it!

sandra-king
Sandra King

What was your occupation when you started the course? Business Partner & Bookkeeper.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To ensure I was doing things correctly and to gain a qualification for the work I was doing.

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? Sole Proprietor of Sovereign Bookkeeping – contract bookkeeper & Transitional BAS Agent servicing the York & surrounding areas. Just started to advertise for clients.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? In York with at least 6 clients working diligently and completed the relevant hours of experience to keep BAS Agent registration.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Explore “Live Accounts” options.

heather
Heather Shortland

What was your occupation when you started the course? Finance Administration / Bookkeeping.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? Validation of the work that I do!

What are you doing now? Full-Time Finance Admin / Bookkeeping. Employed in this position currently for 5 years.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? Same Company.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Once Wise Click incorporate the Advanced Diploma ???? I would like to complete.

dana
Dana Banjac

What was your occupation when you started the course? Finance Broker/Manager.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? My aspiration was to complete my Bookkeeping accreditation (something that I had started before I had my children) and become a reputable and professional Bookkeeper/Financial Controller. I first wanted to gain full-time employment (before becoming a contract bookkeeper) with either an agency or employer to gain more knowledge and skills and to date, my aspirations have been fulfilled.

What are you doing now? Once I completed my Cert IV in Bookkeeping, I was fortunate to gain full-time employment with WiseClick as a Bookkeeper and in return, I gained permanent full-time work with a company I contracted to as a Financial Controller/Bookkeeper.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? I hope to help the business I work for grow into a profitable business. I expect to be more knowledgeable and experienced in bookkeeping and hoping that I will be ready to start my Adv. Dip in Accounting.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Yes, I do intend to further my studies. I would like to complete my Advance Diploma in Accounting.

amanda-williams
Amanda Williams

What was your occupation when you started the course? I had just started as a Bookkeeper | PA for an Architecture Firm.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To learn a new skill set that would assist me in my new role & to prepare me for future possibilities.

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? I am currently employed as an Office Manager | Bookkeeper for an Architecture Firm

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? Hopefully enjoying what I do and continuing to increase my knowledge by further studies (or enjoying myself on a nice holiday)

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? I would love to do further studies in Bookkeeping to increase my skill set but I am also interested in studying Behavioural Science or Teaching

Tina Veenvliet
Tina Veenvliet

What was your occupation when you started the course? Bookkeeping and Administration.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? I was working 1 to 2 days a week for a small cabinet making company, helping with their accounts, payroll, doing the bank reconciliation and gathering reports for the accountant to lodge the BAS. I wanted to learn more about the financial reports, MYOB and the BAS. Like being casual and working the hours that suited me and decided to have my certificate could allow me to get more clients and work for myself.

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? Still working with my 1 client but looking to either expand on my business or work a 2 to 3 days a week as a bookkeeper for another company.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? Would really like to have expanded by myself and have 5 to 10 clients.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? Not right now but will look into “Retail Manager” at a later date.

kevin
Kevin Hales

What was your occupation when you started the course? I was working as an accounts officer in a Temp role.

Your aspirations at the start of the course? To obtain a position as a Bookkeeper with the option to become self-employed in the future.

What are you doing now – looking for work, found work, contract bookkeeper – Full-time; Part-time Casual and where? Obtained full time position as a Bookkeeper commencing 30th Jan.

Can you estimate in one year where you will be? Working as a bookkeeper from my own home office with some flexibility of working hours.

Are you intending to do further studies and if so what? At this stage, I am not planning on doing further studies other than those required to remain current with changes to current BAS and Tax laws, etc.