Rafael Fernandez is busy.
Juggling a full-time career in education with a growing family, there seemed to be a distinct lack of free time in Rafael’s schedule.
Working as a Learning and Teaching Leader as well as a Digital Technologies Leader at a Catholic primary school, Rafael felt ‘a sense of responsibility’ to those around him to strive for more. Having stepped into a leadership role, Rafael felt he needed to increase his existing expertise.
“I wanted to open up new opportunities and sharpen the skills needed to thrive in my current role,” Rafael said.
“Most of my leadership development came through experience and mentorship. While that’s valuable, I felt the need to complement it with formal learning.”
Considering the possibility of postgraduate study
Rafael’s plate was already full with work and family – dad to an energetic three-year-old and expecting a second child in March, he was somewhat dubious about his capacity for higher education.
“I had initial concerns about balancing work, family and study,” he explained.
A colleague had recently undertaken postgraduate study and praised the relevance of the course to their workplace, giving Rafael the nudge he needed.
“Being a strong classroom teacher doesn’t automatically make you a strong leader.”
“On a personal level, I’m motivated by the impact I want to make in my school and the support I want to provide at home. It’s about building something that benefits the people around me.
Thus, Rafael enrolled in a part-time Master of Education (Leadership and Management) at La Trobe.
Balance is the key to success
The daunting thought of managing daily life with a postgrad qualification was simplified by the course’s completely online study mode. As many career professionals and parents can attest, a career and parenthood can often be at odds with each other. With his second child due in the middle of his final semester, Rafael has made the most of La Trobe’s planning and support systems to streamline his studies.
From the first subject, I found myself applying strategies that make a real difference in my work.
“The flexibility of La Trobe’s online delivery has made it possible to study at a pace and time that suits my schedule.”
“I use La Trobe’s LMS to stay organised and block out study time during the week. I often start early in the morning before work or carve out quiet moments in the evening,” Rafael said.
“The library technicians have been fantastic. I’ve studied at other institutions, but the support I’ve received from La Trobe’s librarians has been exceptional.”
Small wins are big wins
With a six-week subject structure, Rafael built a sense of momentum with a noticeable feeling of achievement throughout each block.
“The six-week subject structure is intense, but it suits me. I prefer short, focused bursts of learning where I can immerse myself in one topic at a time.”
Though fast-paced, Rafael recognised the value of his learning through his everyday work. He has picked up new tools and explored broader educational themes that are relevant to his current position.
“I expected theory, but I didn’t realise how immediately useful the content would be,” he said.
“From the first subject, I found myself applying strategies that make a real difference in my work. That relevance has been one of the most motivating parts of the journey.”
A worthy payoff
In terms of balancing work and life with study, Rafael admitted that though it isn’t easy, it is deeply worthwhile to see his efforts paying off.
“That sense of alignment between theory and practice is incredibly rewarding. While submitting assignments brings a great sense of relief, it’s the real-world impact that feels like the true achievement.”
Rafael also highlighted the importance of ‘switching off’, making time to swim at the local pool and to enjoy regular breakfast outings with his family.
“Life doesn’t slow down, but that’s exactly why it’s worth investing in yourself,” he said.
“Push through the doubts, lean into the challenge, and use the opportunity to grow and contribute.”
A note to fellow education professionals
For educators pursuing or already in leadership positions, Rafael’s message regarding postgraduate study is clear.
“The Master of Education has given me both the credentials and the practical tools needed for leadership in education. The insights and strategies I’ve gained are relevant to any educator looking to grow and make a difference.”
“While many schools prefer leaders to hold postgraduate qualifications, I believe the real value lies in the learning itself.”
A life lesson comes full circle
For Rafael, academic success didn’t come easy. Coming from a background where his first language is Spanish, he struggled to learn English and had to repeat a grade in primary school. That experience is what taught Rafael resilience.
“I’ve had to work hard to overcome those early challenges,” he said of his foray into speaking English.
“It’s a reminder that progress is possible even when the path isn’t easy. When things get tough, I lean into that mindset and keep pushing forward.”
Setting and achieving goals
Rafael placed a huge emphasis on his study – not only in will he receive a certificate, but he has also increased his professional value through the acquisition and practical application of useful and relevant skills.
This is how Rafael has made and continues to make a real change in his community.
“Success, for me, is about impact.”
“It’s when teachers feel supported and empowered, and when students grow into confident learners who can shape their own futures.”
“I like to think we’re giving them a key, and they get to choose which doors to open. If my work helps make that possible, then I’ve done what I set out to do in this world.”
Find out what you’re capable of
Join a free webinar (live or on-demand) to learn more about La Trobe’s postgraduate study options at La Trobe University. Take your career to the next level and make a real impact.
Find out more about postgrad study at La Trobe:
Six top reasons to study a postgraduate degree
Explore postgraduate courses