Award nominee strikes the perfect balance

Gymnastics coach and judge Joshua Sammut is a perfect example of what you can achieve when you combine patience, collaboration and a willingness to learn with your passion.

The St Andrews Catholic College Marayong Year 11 student has already completed his Traineeship Certificate III in Sport and Recreation (Gymnastics Coaching) from the Australian Training Company and is nominated for School-based Apprentice of the Year at the NSW Training Awards (Western Sydney and Blue Mountains).

“I believe I was nominated for my work ethic and the initiative I have at work and the drive to do well,” said Joshua. “I believe that it's my passion and love for my work that also is a reason why I am nominated.”

My school-based traineeship has been a great way for me to gain the necessary skills I need for work life in the future. It has taught me so much about work which I know is extremely beneficial for me.

St Andrews College Future Pathways Leader Therese May, student Joshua Sammut and St Andrews College Marayong Principal Dr Stephen Kennaugh

Therese May, St Andrews College Future Pathways Leader, recognised back in Year 9 that Joshua was an excellent candidate for a School-based Traineeship at the Sydney Gymnastics and Aquatic Centre (SGAC) in Rooty Hill. Not only did he complete his traineeship before the end of his training plan, but also achieved a Beginners Coaching Accreditation and an Intermediate Men's Gymnastics Judging Accreditation and was a Judge in the NSW Junior State Championships in 2022.

“Joshua is an incredible role model and has leadership skills well beyond his years,” said Therese. “An amazing young man who excels in all his endeavours. A young man who I am truly proud of.”

In recognition of his exceptional work performance, commitment and dedication during his traineeship, Joshua won the 2022 SGAC “Rising Star” award and has recently taken up an offer from SGAC Gymnastics Manager Lisa Angeleski to become a member of her coaching team.

“I'd also like to thank Kathleen Latham, Account Manager, Australian Training Company, Lisa and Ms May for their immense hard work and support and my family for all their faith in me,” Joshua said.

With 80 schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, CSPD is a leader in Vocational Education and Training through highly successful trade training programs including at CathWest Innovation College, vocational education and training programs across 26 sites and the virtual School of Now.

In 2022, CathWest was awarded the ‘Innovation in VET Award’ at the Australian Training Awards, building on the recent success of our VET offering being named ‘Training Provider of the Year’ at the NSW Training Awards in 2021, and as a finalist for the 2021 ‘Small Training Provider of the Year’ at the Australian Training Awards.