More than 90 Central Queenslanders inched closer to a higher education degree following their graduation from Central Queensland University’s Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) program at Rockhampton.

Enveloping the theme “Patchwork Dreaming”, the graduates showed how everyone’s life was a patchwork quilt and that learning was the thread of life.

One student said: “We are working with the colours and patterns for our patchwork quilts. We are creating a beautiful blanket of learning, experience, difference, uniqueness, respect for other people’s differences – all combining to be a part of the Quilt of Life”.

A video presentation of student testimonials at the ceremony displayed the success of the STEPS program, with each student praising the program and the CQU teaching staff.

Rockhampton STEPS Coordinator Jenny Simpson said this year’s graduation ceremony was a celebration of the courage and commitment these students have shown towards the challenge of studying as mature age learners and all that it entailed.

“When provided with an opportunity to return to study, many adults avail themselves of it in their quest to achieve what may have once seemed to be out of reach,” explained Ms Simpson.

Acting Associate Director of CQU’s Learning Support division, Leone Hinton said she believed STEPS was a practical pathway to higher education.

STEPS provides mature-age students with the skills necessary to succeed at university. The program provides teaching in language and learning, mathematics, computing for academic assignment writing and preparatory studies.

The program is a 13-week full-time or 26-week part-time program available at CQU’s Central Queensland campuses: Rockhampton, Gladstone, Mackay, Bundaberg and Emerald.

Director of CQU’s Division of Teaching and Learning Services, Dr Jeanne McConachie said the 16-year-old STEPS program had a proven history of giving people a “second chance at going to university”.

“We have over 400 students go through the program each year,” she said. “Our aim is that through the STEPS program students will have the opportunity to pursue an undergraduate degree at CQU.

People interested in joining the STEPS program should contact Jenny Simpson on 4930 9057 or email j.simpson@cqu.edu.au.

Above: CQU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Ron Davies presents Elaine Hans with her certificate of graduation from the recent STEPS program held in Rockhampton.

Left: Andrew Hudson never let his visual impairment hinder his ability to succeed at CQU’s STEPS program.