Juggling kids and work to complete welfare degree

By Alex Oates

There were times when Kathleen Brunton almost threw in the towel.

Moments when study, full-time work and being the mother of four children almost got the better of her.

But, after 13 years of late nights, assignments exams and countless distractions, Mrs Brunton was rewarded yesterday.

The 48-year-old was handed her Bachelor of Social Work degree during Deakin University’s graduation ceremony.

Mrs Brunton, of Lara, was among dozens of graduates of the faculties of arts and education, health, medicine, nursing and behavioural sciences yesterday.

On Wednesday night, students of the faculties of arts and education, business and law and science and technology received honours.

They were among 1100 graduates who will collect their testamurs this week.

“The best feeling in the whole world was handing the last assignment into that slot,” a relieved Mrs Brunton said while flanked by husband Michael and children Caitlin, 20, Sarah, 19, Erin, 16, and Lachlan 12.

“It was very satisfying. I’m excited and proud… proud of my achievements.”

Mrs Brunton’s student life began in 1997 when she studied a Diploma of Welfare at Gordon TAFE.

At the time, she was pregnant with Lachlan and working full-time at the Commonwealth Employment Service.

“It was difficult at times, looking after the kids and running them around the countryside for sport,” Mrs Brunton said.

“And then I realised I was pregnant with Lachlan in the second semester and I took some time off.”

Eventually, Mrs Brunton completed a Bachelor of Social Work with distinction and is currently a social worker at Geelong’s Centrelink, where she works with youth and people in crisis situations.

“I enjoy it, it’s very rewarding helping people in the community,” she said.

Article by The Geelong Advertiser, May 7, 2010.