Nambour TAFE courses open doors to rewarding careers

Sunshine Coast residents looking to start a new career, upskill or move into high-priority industries are being encouraged to explore in-demand study options available through TAFE Queensland for Semester 2.

Courses in education support, early childhood education, individual support, disability support, mental health, youth work, community nursing and beauty services are helping meet strong demand for skilled workers across Queensland.

These practical training pathways are helping students gain job-ready skills for careers where workers are needed most, including education, health and community services.

Opal studies one day a week at TAFE Queensland in the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care while working in a childcare centre. “I did the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE at School and when I finished, I went straight into the Diploma as it was free,” Opal said. “At 19 I am earning a wage while studying and without university debt hanging over my head, so I have financial freedom for other things. 

“I just love coming to classes one day a week. It’s a great bunch of people that you get to share and learn with. There is the option to do the course online, but I really enjoy the in-person learning where I get to meet people who work in a range of childcare facilities. It’s great to feed off the energy,” Opal said.

“My employer is supportive of me taking the study day and bringing that relevant professional development to my job.”

The Diploma is a valuable next step for educators looking to build their professional confidence, deepen their understanding of child development, and gain the leadership skills needed to take on greater responsibility or progress towards managing a childcare centre.

Mum of a two-year-old, Stacey undertook the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care with TAFE Queensland as she knew it was a trusted training provider in Australia.

“Studying the Diploma offers a lot of opportunities for personal development and growth. Obviously, it will also lead to more money, but it also gives you an insight and leadership in childhood development and emotional behaviour to support children and their families,” Stacey said. “Working in the industry with a two-year-old is another advantage for me, as it’s a very flexible career for a mother.”

TAFE Queensland East Coast and Online General Manager Mark Reilly said in-demand courses were creating life-changing opportunities for people across the region.

“Across Queensland, employers are looking for skilled workers in areas such as education support, health and community services,” Mr Reilly said.

“TAFE Queensland’s practical, industry-relevant training gives students the skills and confidence to step into these roles and make a meaningful contribution in their communities.”

“Whether someone is returning to study, changing careers, entering the workforce for the first time or looking to progress in their current role, these courses provide a supported pathway into industries that are vital to our communities, with a number of fee-free TAFE options available to eligible students.”

To find out more about in-demand courses visit the TAFE Queensland website www.tafeqld.eud.au or contact TAFE Queensland on 1300 308 233.

Opal, left, and Stacey are undertaking the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE Queensland Mooloolaba campus.