Northern NSW bakery owners attended a Bakery Student Showcase day at TAFE NSW Kingscliff last week, as the industry bands together to tackle local skill shortages.  

In partnership with the Bakery Association of Australia, TAFE NSW hosted the showcase as part of a local strategy to link employers with resources to attract skilled workers into their businesses.  

TAFE NSW Certificate II Baking students dished up delicious treats showcasing their technical skills, while bakery owners networked with support providers on available initiatives to support the industry.  

Strong growth is expected to continue in the Bakery industry, with the workforce predicted to peak at 34,000 workers by 2024.  

Baking Association of Australia, Executive Officer Tony Smith says local employers are struggling to find baking staff to fill existing jobs and apprenticeships.        

“Bakery owners are desperate for assistance; we met in March with employers, TAFE NSW, and industry bodies to look at how we can work in partnership to address skill shortages,” said Mr Smith. 

“A key issue for employers was access to potential job candidates.” 

“TAFE NSW is already training the next generation of bakers; the showcase day was an opportunity to connect employers with students already working towards a career in the bakery industry.”  

TAFE NSW Head of Skills Team for Tourism and Experience Services Cheryl Ballinger says the Certificate II in Baking provides students with a strong foundation to kickstart their careers.  

“Our Certificate II students provide employers with a pipeline of skilled workers ready to transition to the workplace, with the skills to hit the ground running,” said Ms Ballinger.  

“The Showcase is a wonderful example of TAFE NSW and industry collaborating to facilitate solutions for local industry and link students with job outcomes.” 

For more information on bakery courses, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601. 

Media contact: Kelly Lawler, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist.