When Melissa McCoy started teaching at TAFE Gippsland in 2025, her plans for her Early Childhood & Education cohort were clear.
“To create a welcoming and support learning environment, establish clear expectations around assessment and behaviour and build strong relationships early.”
Signed, sealed and delivered!
Melissa’s students are loving every bit of her outside the box thinking when it comes to career visioning, goal setting and laying the foundations for a successful learning journey.
So much so, they surprised her with a little thank-you gift to show their gratitude for a super start to 2026.
Melissa was surprised with flowers and a beautiful gift basked from her students along with a card full of heartfelt messages of gratitude.
Read their messages below...
“Melissa, thank you so much. I have always struggled with my motivation to complete anything educational, but you’ve made TAFE So much fun and such a safe space that I wake up excited to come every day and can’t wait to complete this course!”
“Melissa, I was really nervous about being back in a classroom again, but you have made it so much easier with your passion. You make learning fun.”
“Melissa, you are such a dedicated teacher. You’re encouragement and passion for learning makes a lasting difference every day. We are truly grateful for all that you do!”
“Thank you for giving us your all. Your effort doesn’t go unnoticed and we all appreciate you so much.”
So, what led Melissa to a teaching and how did we end up so lucky to have her on the TAFE Gippsland teaching team?
Let’s find out…
My vocational pathway into education
My journey into education began in the early childhood sector in 2004 when I was 17 years old, when I completed my Certificate III in Children’s Services while undertaking the VET program at high school. This early exposure to the sector confirmed my passion for working with children and supporting their development during the most formative years of life.
After gaining valuable industry experience, I chose to further develop my skills and knowledge by pathwaying into additional study. This led to the completion of my TAE qualification in 2011, along with higher-level qualifications that strengthened my professional practice and aligned with my growing interest in mentoring, leadership, and education. Expanding beyond my initial qualification allowed me to view early childhood education more broadly and ultimately opened the door to teaching and sharing what I am passionate about.
Melissa was the subject of an article about VET pathways back in 2004, when she was completing her Certificate III in Children's Services.
Why I chose TAFE Gippsland
I chose to take on a teaching role at TAFE Gippsland because I am passionate about supporting the next generation of early childhood educators. TAFE plays a vital role in providing accessible, high-quality vocational education, and I value the opportunity to contribute to this mission.
Teaching allows me to combine my industry experience with my passion for learning, while supporting students to build confidence, capability, and a strong professional identity. I particularly value being able to share real-world insights and prepare students for the realities of working in early childhood settings. I am also grateful to have access to a well-equipped practical room, which enables me to design meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.
Highlights of my role so far
One of the highlights of my role has been witnessing student growth — not only academically, but also in confidence and professionalism. Supporting learners who may begin unsure of themselves and watching them develop into capable, reflective educators is incredibly rewarding.
Building positive relationships with students and guiding them through placements, assessments, and personal challenges has also been a standout aspect of my role.
Setting the foundation 2026 and beyond
Student induction is one of the most important stages of a new class. When students feel informed, comfortable, and valued from the beginning, they are far more likely to remain engaged and succeed.
My strategy for the cohort throughout 2026 and into 2027 focuses on consistency, engagement, and preparation for employment.
Ultimately, my goal is to ensure students feel confident, capable, and workforce-ready — equipped not just with a qualification, but with the skills, mindset, and professionalism needed to thrive in the early childhood sector.
Want to know about studying early childhood education at TAFE?
Visit our website for more information about our courses in early childhood education and education support.