Two local students from the Electorate of Cessnock have been recognised and celebrated as part of the 2025 Hunter and Central Coast Regional Training Awards. The awards celebrate the success of local VET (vocational education and training) learners and teachers who have made outstanding contributions to their workplaces and industries.
In the early childhood education and care field, Lauren McKewen of Greta was awarded Trainee of the Year for her tireless commitment in empowering young children as part of her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at The Cottage Preschool and Early Learning Centre.
Lauren is being celebrated for going above and beyond for constantly searching for creative resources and activities and making every interaction a learning opportunity for students.
James Barry of Cessnock took out the award for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, James is currently completing a Certificate III in Guiding at Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley.
Winners from the awards go on to represent the Hunter and Central Coast community in their respective categories as they are considered for the 2025 NSW Training Awards in September.
Presented by the Department of Education’s Training Services, the NSW Training Awards recognise outstanding achievement in the vocational education and training sector, with this year marking the 70th anniversary for the awards.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:
“The finalists and winners from this year’s Hunter and Central Coast Regional Training Awards represent the premier VET talent in the region. Having a thriving and robust VET sector generates ripples in the local community with investment into spaces like healthcare, infrastructure, education, and the economy.
“The Training Awards support the NSW Government’s efforts to address skills shortages by spotlighting excellence in VET.
State Member for the Electorate of Cessnock, Clayton Barr said:
“I am incredibly proud to have two of our local students acknowledged for their efforts, well done Lauren and James, it is great to see your hard work and dedication recognised.”
“TAFE and VET plays a vital role in supporting the local economy by equipping students with the industry-aligned skills that employers need.
“Congratulations to Lauren and James, your championing of VET is paving the way for others to be inspired and take on fulfilling pathways in education.”
Trainee of the Year, Lauren McKewen, said:
“I have been able to make an impact in childrens lives, and I have loved watching them grow and learn, teaching them new skills that will allow them to be ready for the next stages in their life.
“I love getting to make children feel safe, secure and supported and teach them skills that will help them in their future.
“Completing my Diploma changed me and my practices as an educator for the better. I have now gained a further understanding into planning, and the importance behind each interaction and experience made.
“I have gained strategies that can be used to work in partnerships with families that provide the appropriate education and care for their children. I have been able to implement creative play that includes all children and the knowledge to design programs that focus on nurturing creativity in children.”
For more information on the NSW Training Awards, visit: https://education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw/nsw-training-awards.
Following is the list of 2025 Regional Training Awards:
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, James Barry, Certificate III in Guiding, Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley
Apprentice of the Year, Isla Johnston, Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade, HunterNet Career Connections
School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year, Lily Rance, Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, Hunter New England Local Health District
Trainee of the Year, Lauren McKewen, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, The Cottage Preschool and Early Learning Centre
VET in Schools Student of the Year, Esteban Cervera, Certificate II in Cooker
VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year, Zae Greenwood, Statewide Business Training
Vocational Student of the Year, Cathy Burke, Certificate IV in Housing, Pacific Link Housing