PTI’s degrees of readiness

Sgt Scott Gayton, 2HSB, is congratulated on his graduation by the Chancellor of Charles Sturt University, L.J. Willet.Photo provided by Sgt Gayton

By Leut Aaron Matzkows

PHYSICAL Training Instructor Sgt Scott Gayton of Enoggera Barracks is not just a fit soldier, he’s a smart soldier too.

Sgt Gayton has finished his Bachelor of Health Science (Leisure and Health) through Charles Sturt University as dux of the course.

As well as gaining a distinction, he won the Divisional Therapy of Australia Award as the student with the highest results – and now he’s about to tackle his Masters degree.

Sgt Gayton completed his degree in five years’ part-time study.

He finished the final semester while serving in Op Masurka in the Sinai as a PTI.

Sgt Gayton was sponsored by the Defence Assisted Study Scheme.

Next, he will study a Masters’ program at the University of Queensland.

The Bachelor of Health Science (Leisure and Health) offered at Charles Sturt University included subjects that have a focus on holistic health, leisure programming, rehabilitation and health psychology.

Tertiary qualifications such as these are increasingly becoming recognised as necessary in the changing the multifaceted role of today’s PTIs.

As the ADF moves with technology, further education is becoming necessary for soldiers.

Many soldiers are taking advantage of DASS and undertaking further study via distance modes that are offered by most universities.