‘Resthaven is a place of family for me!’ says Dementia Educator
Gill Schulze, Resthaven Dementia Educator, has a wealth of knowledge in the aged care field, as well as an extensive knowledge of Resthaven.
Whilst still at high school, her first job was working in the kitchen at Resthaven Leabrook. Gill recalls walking to the site straight from school. Her time at Resthaven Leabrook involved Gill setting tables, serving hot tea and dinner, as well as washing dishes – and was the beginning of her lifelong connection with the organisation.
After a year in this role, Gill began her first full-time job, as a watch-maker. The next four years saw Gill enduring in this role that was unsuited to her– after which she returned to Resthaven, saying, ‘Resthaven has always been a place of family for me, so I found my way back and never left!’
Since then, Gill has worked at Resthaven Westbourne Park, Bellevue Heights, Mitcham, Malvern and Community Respite Services in multiple roles. She worked her way up from Kitchen Hand, Home Support Worker, Lifestyle Assistant, Lifestyle Coordinator, Assistant Manager and Coordinator, and is currently working as a Dementia Educator.
During these years, Resthaven offered Gill professional development programs to assist her in her career progression and overall knowledge of the industry. In total, Gill studied and completed Certificates in Aged Care, Leisure and Health, Training and Assessment, and Project Management, along with an Associate Degree in Dementia Care, and Diplomas in Leisure and Health and Art Therapy – all whilst working and raising six children!
‘I took all of the opportunities offered to me because I believe in constantly learning and improving what I can offer to clients and residents – everything I have picked up along the way has helped me in every single role I have had!’.
‘I love working as a Dementia Educator because no day is the same, and there is always something to learn’.
Gill looks back on her long history with Resthaven and believes she will be here, learning and growing for many more years to come.
Celebrating 85 years in 2020, Resthaven Incorporated is a not for profit, South Australian aged care community service associated with the Uniting Church. Resthaven’s residential and in-home care and support options are offered throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Barossa, Fleurieu Peninsula and the Limestone Coast.