Media release

    TAFE Digital | 19 December 2024

    A woman looks at two large computer screens with code on them. She is in a computer lab surrounded by screens and technology, and wears glasses and a business suit.

    TAFE NSW graduates celebrate high scores in an alternative pathway to uni

    “Since graduating, I’ve enrolled in Certificate IV Information Technology and am planning a career in IT or cyber security.”

    Elizabeth Poller

    As school leavers across the state receive their HSC results, 50 TAFE NSW graduates are celebrating their success in a university preparation course that provides access to universities without the HSC.

    Elizabeth Poller from Nowra and Bronte Herft from Gerringong graduated from TAFE NSW Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation with a Tertiary Entrance Score of an ATAR equivalent of at least 97.

    The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation is a nationally accredited qualification offering a Tertiary Entrance Score, an ATAR equivalent, recognised by universities and employers as a year 12 equivalent qualification.

    A photo of Elizabeth Poller smiling and sitting on a classroom desk.

    Jobs and Skills Australia estimates more than 90 per cent of employment growth over the next 10 years will be in jobs requiring post-secondary qualifications.

    For Elizabeth Poller, enrolling in the Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC) was about personal development.

    “I left high school before completing year 12 and when I found out about the TPC on the TAFE NSW website, it seemed like the perfect fit for where I was at in life at the time.

    “The smaller class meant personalised support from the teachers. I also enjoyed the adult learning environment where students were given a higher level of responsibility for our studies and how we used our time.

    “This skill has really helped prepare me for further study.

    “Since graduating, I’ve enrolled in Certificate IV Information Technology and am planning a career in IT or cyber security,” she said. 

    Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, praised the achievements of the TAFE NSW graduates, highlighting the importance of providing diverse pathways to success.

    “The Tertiary Preparation Certificate opens doors for students to pursue higher education and career aspirations without relying solely on traditional schooling pathways,” Mr Whan said.

    “This course equips students with essential skills, such as research and essay writing, in a supportive adult learning environment, preparing them for university and the workforce.

    “It’s a program that can transform lives, offering new opportunities and helping students build a foundation for lifelong learning and career growth.”

    Media contact: Adam Wright, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, (02) 7920 5000

    Read our stories

    To keep up to date with what’s happening in TAFE NSW, read more of our stories.