TAFE NSW is meeting the growing skills needs of the community services industry, delivering a pipeline of skilled workers at a particularly critical time for the sector.

The National Skills Commission has forecast an 11 per cent increase in demand for community, youth, and disability service workers over the next two years, driven by a rise in demand for care and support services, particularly in regional NSW.

Lake Macquarie teenager and TAFE NSW graduate, Tallan Hooker, 17, chose to study a Certificate III in Community Services after leaving school in year 10.

“I’m passionate about community, although I think it’s something that we’re starting to lose as our city grows, so I knew this was the area I wanted to study. I grew up in a rough area and I understand the challenges our local young people face, so I went to TAFE NSW to refine some of the skills that come naturally to me.

“At TAFE NSW, I learned how to deal with a wide range of different people in different scenarios, read body language, and how to paraphrase and write notes. My teachers were great in recognising traits in me I didn’t realise were there, and TAFE NSW helped me learn how to amplify my natural talents and give me the skills to make me industry ready.

“School wasn’t for me, but TAFE NSW allowed me to focus on an area I’m passionate about and prepare me for work, with lots of simulated client interactions and group work. I love getting involved and I’m currently helping out at Arise Community Support,” Tallan said.

One of a growing number of men choosing a career in the booming Community Services sector, Tallan has his sights set on continuing his education with a traineeship through a local provider.

“At this stage of my career, I feel like I’m ahead, so I’m keen to get as many skills as I can under my belt. My dream is to become a community leader and influence change in communities, especially for young people,” Tallan said.

TAFE NSW Team Leader of Community Services, Michelle Bronger, said TAFE NSW Belmont plays a critical role in skilling locals to fill community service jobs in the region.

"Not only is the Certificate III in Community Services the right course for people passionate about a career in the sector, it's also a pathway to other career opportunities, like Frontline workers - policing, emergency services, or healthcare and nursing," she said. 

"It's also a wonderful option for people who are joining or returning to the workforce who are undecided about their future career. The course offers great life skills like prioritising workload, working in a team, effective communication, responding to crises, and working respectively with a diverse range of people.

 "Through this course, we see our learners grow their personal and professional confidence, as well as their skills and knowledge, making TAFE NSW graduates truly workforce ready.”

Media contact: Emily Graham, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, mediarelease@tafensw.edu.au, 02 7920 5000.