LOCAL TAFE facilities are set to see an influx of trainees after the introduction of a new federal government boost.
The government opened on January 1 the possibility for eligible job seekers to access free, uncapped training – previously limited to 650 hours.
The Skills for Education and Employment program connects unemployed people with TAFE trainers, work placements and Certificate-level qualifications to prepare them for work or higher study.
The head of TAFE’s English language and literacy services Scott Bray said it changes opened up the floor to job seekers.
“Now, instead of being capped to that 650 hours, you can access as much training as you need to complete a Certificate
level qualification,” he said.
The program’s key point-of-difference lies in its level of customisation, he said.
Where one student may be working towards their Year 10 Alternative, another could be preparing for Australian Defence Force entry, learning to use Adobe Photoshop, or completing a Certificate II in Business.
Early school leaver Remy Teague was able to work in the program to set personal career goals in a safe, low-pressure environment.
“It was an experience I will never forget. TAFE was nothing like high school, to the point I could have cried in relief,” she said.
After previously leaving school midway through Year 8, she successfully achieved her Year 10 Alternative through the program. She is now enrolled in a Certificate III in Visual Arts.
