Following the family tradition

Meet Shelby Rowles, a remarkable Year 11 student whose passion for dental care led her on a transformative journey.

Through determination, initiative, and unwavering support, Shelby recently completed a Certificate III in Dental Assisting traineeship with the Australian Academy of Dental Assisting (AADA) College.

‘I commenced my School-based Traineeship with Southside Dental in Toowoomba in April 2022, after successfully completing their interview process.

Attending one day a week as part of the Fairholme College Pathways Program, I entered the workforce and loved it immediately; it felt like the perfect fit for me. This quickly led to working full 8-hour days, after school hours and holiday work,’ Shelby said.

Despite the challenges of learning an entirely new field, Shelby says she embraced the traineeship with enthusiasm and soon learned to navigate and even take on leadership roles.

‘I also gained more self-confidence, improved my communication skills, experienced complex decision-making in the workplace and gained an understanding of real-world thinking and reality.

Lots of initiative was required throughout my traineeship. Staying abreast of schoolwork, completing my traineeship units and organising trainer visits for workplace observations to sign off on completed assessments.’

The roots of Shelby’s journey run deep, influenced by her family’s healthcare background. Her grandfather, a doctor, and her father, a Pharmacist/Farmer, she says it inspired her to pursue a career aligned with her upbringing and values.

‘Being able to undertake this traineeship, and being involved in an industry in which I have grown up and hold close to my heart has been fulfilling.’

Shelby says her journey would not have been as enjoyable without the unwavering support of our Head of Pathways Mrs Laura Anderson, and

Pathways Coordinator Mrs Kelly Cumming.

‘They stood as unsung heroes, guiding me towards completion and triumph. Their support, infectious positivity and problem-solving skills were

instrumental in my success.’

As she reflects on her achievement, she stands as a testament to the adage, “She can, and She will.”

Shelby Rowles, a name now synonymous with dedication and triumph, has paved a promising path in the world of dental assisting.