Students from 30 local high schools developed critical life and workplace skills this term by taking part in Youth Engagement Strategy Plus (YES+) programs at TAFE NSW Campbelltown and Macquarie Fields campuses.
Over 70 students, including Cooper Duffy and Jude Pitman of Airds High School (pictured above), completed eight-week vocational taster courses in wall and floor tiling, civil construction, travel and tourism (flight attendant), hospitality, barbering, hair and grooming, and retail industries.
Minister for skills and training Alister Henskens said the YES+ program provides high school students with an invaluable opportunity to connect with industry-expert teachers, and explore the practical, hands-on facilities at TAFE NSW.
“This program is a great way for students to get a head start in their careers by developing the hands-on skills that employers are looking for, while still in school,” Mr Henskens said.
“Before students make decisions about year 11, 12 or HSC subjects they can receive career counselling, mentoring, and literacy and numeracy support as part of the program.”
Natalie Gardam, relieving regional general manager at TAFE NSW urged more young people to consider how TAFE NSW could help them further their careers by tapping into the region’s most in-demand jobs.
“It’s great to see local high school students exploring their vocational education and training options at TAFE NSW Macquarie Fields and Campbelltown campuses,” Ms Gardam said.
“The YES+ Program broadens young people’s understanding of the types of jobs that potentially await them in industries that are integral to the community.”
According to a 2022 National Skills Commission report, employment growth in construction is projected to result in an additional 66,400 jobs by November 2026.
For more information about TAFE NSW courses, phone 131 601 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au
