News & Stories

From sparkie to trainer

Matt King is shaping the next generation of young students.

Matt King has a passion to pass on his knowledge to the next generation. After starting his career as a sparkie, he then became a trainer. Matt is now Head of Swan Trade Training Centre in WA.

He teaches Certificate II in Electrotechnology and Certificate II Skills for work and Vocation Pathways.

Matt says he loves having the ability to shape the next generation. 

To create a space where they can enjoy there last two years of school, while learning life skills that will help them whatever pathway they take in life.

While teaching, Matt is studying a Bachelor of Education (Applied Learning) part-time at the University of Tasmania. He’s combining his trade qualifications and Certificate IV in training and assessing to further formalise his teaching qualifications.   

I’ve been teaching in a school in WA since 2012. This study is a way to get the piece of paper to say I can do what I have been doing, while learning new ways to deliver and keep up with current research.

By studying a Bachelor of Education (Applied Learning), Matt has been able to progress in his teaching career. 

While I have an amazing job, it will open more doors in the education sector and further leadership positions. The fact that I’m currently studying for the degree made it possible for me to take on the role of Head of the Swan Trade Training Centre.

Studying at the University of Tasmania, Matt found he has the support of lecturers and staff, access to up to date research, flexible learning options, credit for prior learning, and the ability to apply his studies to his current work setting. 

The University of Tasmania has allowed me the flexibility to learn online. Now I have the ability to complete my placements in my own work setting. Everything I learn, and all the assignments, I can link directly to my current teaching role. The lecturers encourage us to relate everything to our own context.

While becoming a VET/TAFE trainer has its challenges, and adjustments from working on-site to teaching in the classroom, Matt has always wanted to be a trainer. His advice to aspiring trainers and teachers is simple. 

The key to being a good trainer or teacher is to be learning yourself. I don’t think I’ll ever stop studying.

Become the teacher you want to be with the University of Tasmania's professionally accredited and nationally recognised Bachelor of Education (Applied Learning).