Teacher Spotlight: From Childhood Education to Interior Design - Carol Stevens

Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Carol began her career in early childhood education, she found herself drawn to the idea of working independently after starting her family. This led her to launch a professional organising business as a sole trader. But her interests didn’t stop there; with a growing fascination for interior decoration, Carol decided to take the plunge and study interior design. Balancing her business with a full-time role as a kitchen designer, she honed her skills while nurturing her creative side.

It was during the pandemic that a new chapter in her career unfolded. Carol had the opportunity to mentor WIOT students, an experience that reignited her passion for teaching and learning. This experience eventually led her to join the team as an interior design teacher—a role that, for her, felt like a full-circle moment, combining her love for education and design.

For Carol, the greatest reward in teaching is witnessing the unique learning journeys of her students. She thrives on seeing each student’s distinct learning style and enjoys creating content that resonates with them. The dynamic, hands-on learning environment in the interior design studio is what she loves most about her job. Every day is different, and that variety keeps her energized and excited.

Carol’s teaching philosophy centres around the idea that education should be an interactive, engaging process that adapts to each student's unique needs. She believes that students learn best when they’re actively involved and encouraged to explore their interests. Carol strives to create a supportive, curiosity-driven environment where it’s okay to make mistakes—a vital part of the learning process.

Personally, Carol embraces the belief that we’re always learning and evolving. Her passion for discovering new things fuels her both professionally and personally, and she aims to in still that same excitement in her students. It’s about making learning meaningful, engaging, and enjoyable for everyone.

For those looking to break into the interior design industry, Carol’s advice is to start creating and sharing your work as early as possible. This is something she encourages her students to do right from the start of their studies. Building a portfolio is essential for establishing your style and attracting opportunities. Carol also emphasises the importance of gaining hands-on experience and being open to exploring different areas of interior design. This variety will help you develop a well-rounded skill set and find your unique place within the industry.

Carol acknowledges that the thought of taking on a study load can be daunting, but she assures prospective students that there’s plenty of support available. At Wodonga TAFE, the interior design team is not only knowledgeable but also accessible, always ready to answer questions and provide guidance. She also encourages students to break assessments down into smaller, manageable tasks and to use checklists to track their progress—a strategy that boosts motivation and ensures they stay on track.

Carol draws inspiration from her colleagues, a creative and passionate team that constantly motivates her through their stories and dedication. But one figure stands out—James Treble. Carol and James share a similar career path, both balancing design businesses with kitchen design work. Over the past two years, James has toured TAFEs, including Wodonga TAFE, sharing his journey with students. His talks rekindle Carol’s own passion for the industry and remind her of the reasons she fell in love with Interior design.

According to Carol, Wodonga TAFE offers a unique learning experience that combines hands-on practice with tailored instruction. The courses are designed to meet the individual needs of students, ensuring a personalised and engaging experience. With the added support of an interactive online learning platform, students receive comprehensive, real-world training that prepares them for success in the interior design industry.

Considering a career in Interior Design? Take a look at our 2025 course guide and consider making an appointment with our In-house career advisor.