31 July 2023

A landmark event in Strathfield aimed at strengthening ties between TAFE Digital and industry has been hailed an “overwhelming success” and prompted plans for future similar events.

The TAFE Digital Health, Wellbeing and Community Services Sectors Industry Night, held at Strathfield Golf Club, attracted almost 100 attendees, spanning a host of industries, many impacted by skills shortages.

They were joined by TAFE Digital staff, students and graduates in a bid to take the pulse of industry, create networking opportunities and outline how the support and flexibility of TAFE Digital could help create a pipeline of new workers following an increase in enrolments for in-demand sectors.

“It was a hugely valuable event and gave us an even deeper understanding of the unique challenges facing the many industries we service,” Executive Director TAFE Digital Lyn Rickard said.

“It was all about understanding what industry needs and where the evolving training gaps might be.

“TAFE Digital offers the flexibility of online study and allows people to enrol anytime . Not everyone can attend a class due to work, family and community commitments  but they might be able to study after the kids are in bed at night, for example.”

Ms Rickard said the feedback from the industry night was so positive, TAFE Digital was already planning similar event in future.

The event hosted a range of businesses – from sole operators to larger corporates – representing a number of sectors, including allied health, community services, early childhood education and care, and audiometry. It showcased the many lesser known student support services offered by TAFE Digital, including counselling, disability, Aboriginal, and multicultural support.

It also included a lively Q&A session covering industry challenges and trends and training pathways through TAFE Digital.

One of many in attendance was Pennant Hills Preschool educational leader Christine Reynolds, who at 78 has decades of industry experience under her belt.

“It was a wonderful event and so valuable to hear about the different needs of industry and how TAFE Digital was helping,” Mrs Reynolds said.

“It was also great to see how the digital classroom works and see the spectrum of services that TAFE Digital offers.”

As a direct result of the event, Training Services NSW acknowledged the potential for newly funded short courses based on the feedback of attendees.

Media contact: Daniel Johns, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, (02) 6938 1441, mobile 0477 722 428