Finding a career that fits parenthood

Becoming a parent has a way of changing how you see everything, including your career. For Lauren, the arrival of her child prompted a period of reflection about what she wanted her working life to look like moving forward.

When she joined Parent Pathways with CVGT Employment in September 2025, Lauren was seeking support to change the course of her career so it would better fit her family life. Returning to individual and aged care support work no longer felt sustainable or aligned with the future she envisioned. She wanted something different, something that offered stability and the chance to build confidence while balancing the responsibilities of motherhood.

A career in medical administration felt like the right next step. Still, knowing what you want and believing you can get there are two very different things.

Adjusting to motherhood while carrying self-doubt

Like many new parents, Lauren was navigating major changes at once. Alongside the demands of caring for her child, she was carrying the emotional impact of past work experiences that had left her confidence shaken.

Poor treatment in a previous workplace had eroded her self-belief, and discouraging comments from her social circle made her question her abilities even further. With limited emotional support available, those doubts became harder to ignore.

She wondered whether she was capable of studying and whether moving into an administrative role was realistic for her at this stage of life.

Confidence, rather than motivation, was her biggest barrier.

Support that meets parents where they are

From the start, Lauren’s goal was clear. She wanted to study a Certificate III in Business (Medical). Finding the right course, however, felt overwhelming.

She needed a study option that was flexible enough to work around parenting, delivered by a Victorian based Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to keep fees affordable, and realistic for someone returning to learning after time away.

That’s where Parent Pathways made a difference

Lauren connected with her Albury CVGT Employment Parent Pathways mentor, Paige, who worked alongside her to explore training options through training.gov.au. Together, they vetted Victorian providers and compared delivery modes to find a course that truly fit Lauren’s circumstances.

When the Australian Institute of Flexible Learning emerged as a suitable option, Paige contacted the RTO directly to confirm course structure and expectations. This ensured Lauren could move forward with confidence, knowing the course would meet her needs as both a student and a parent.

Rebuilding confidence through practical and emotional support

Throughout the process, Paige focused not only on the logistics of enrolment, but on Lauren’s mindset.

Using strengths-based conversations, she gently challenged Lauren’s negative self-talk and helped her recognise her existing capability.

“Passing the Language, Literacy and Numeracy assessment became a pivotal moment, reinforcing that she was ready to take on study,” Paige says.

Course fees were paid through Parent Pathways program funding, removing financial stress and allowing Lauren to begin without delay.
Paige
CVGT Employment Parent Pathways Mentor

“Sharing her partner’s laptop was not practical for consistent study, so funding was arranged for a laptop of her own. This gave Lauren the flexibility to study independently, manage her assessments more effectively, and feel a sense of ownership over her learning.”

For a busy parent juggling multiple responsibilities, these practical supports make a meaningful difference.

“When you’re caring for a child, financial pressure often makes it feel impossible to prepare for a new career or invest in your future. Through Parent Pathways, those barriers were eased, with course fees covered and practical tools provided, allowing Lauren to focus on learning, parenting, and building a next step that worked for her family,” Paige adds.

A new way forward

With the right course, the right technology, and consistent encouragement, Lauren’s confidence began to grow. What once felt daunting now felt achievable.

Her simple message captured the shift in how she felt about her future.

Thank you so much! I really appreciate it!
Lauren
CVGT Employment Parent Pathways participant

Behind those words was more than gratitude. There was relief, reassurance, and the quiet confidence that comes from feeling supported at the right time.

Supporting parents to find a better fit

Today, Lauren is working towards a career that aligns with her strengths, her interests, and the realities of family life. What once felt uncertain now feels possible.

Her experience reflects a reality many parents face. Sometimes, the career that suited you before children no longer fits once life changes.

Parent Pathways with CVGT Employment supports parents through these moments of transition, offering guidance, practical resources and encouragement to explore new career paths that work for their current stage of life.

For parents wondering whether it’s time to rethink their career, Lauren’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to navigate that journey alone, and that with the right support, confidence and clarity can be rebuilt.