For the first time, students can gain a competitive edge to jumpstart a career in the banking industry, thanks to a new virtual course in Certificate IV in Banking Services offered through TAFE NSW.  

The financial services workforce is expected to grow by another 28,000 workers by 2025, with over 2200 banking positions currently advertised on online employment marketplace, Seek across New South Wales.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher Alex Arfanis said graduates develop real-world skills in financial services, banking products, and compliance to meet industry financial regulations and hit the ground running.

"We've seen the banking industry undergo a rapid transformation in the last two years to meet increased customer demand for digital services and a shift to flexible working as a result of COVID-19," said Ms Arfanis. 

"Offering the course via virtual delivery opens access to regional NSW and enables students to develop strong digital literacy skills, including the ability to work collaboratively virtually.

"There is a significant digital literacy skills gap in Australia, with over 87% of positions in Australia now requiring these skills. TAFE NSW is creating a pipeline of workers with the confidence to navigate the changing work environment, with greater flexibility to find the job that best suits their lifestyle."

Former Qantas employees Julie George and Gary O'Riley have embarked on a new career in banking after completing a Certificate IV in Banking Services in November.

Ms George said after 30 years flying together, they both realised their skills in the sky weren't going to get them jobs on the ground. 

"First we enrolled in a computing course at TAFE NSW Bankstown to update our computing skills. A teacher pointed out we had transferable skills that would suit the banking industry," said Ms George.

"Three weeks into the course, lockdown hit, and we moved to virtual delivery. I'd never used Microsoft Teams or Zoom before, but the transition was seamless. Each day was different, and I felt so connected to my teachers and fellow students. I now feel 100% confident that I have the digital skills to work flexibly."

Mr O'Riley has already secured a Customer Service Consultant position with Bank Australia and said learning virtually prepared him to perform successfully in online interviews. 

"What makes this course exceptional was the teacher's ability to support and engage each student. They go that extra step further, helping you create a resume and assisting with job applications,” said Mr O'Riley. 

“Banking isn't something I had considered, but learning banking terminology and developing skills in how to sell products and services gives you a solid grounding for an entry-level position.

"If you're thinking about a career change, bite the bullet and consider the Certificate IV in Banking Services. You won't get better support and encouragement than the TAFE NSW team to start your new career."

The Certificate IV in Banking Services can be studied virtually full-time or part-time from anywhere in NSW and is currently open for enrolment.

To learn more about studying the Certificate IV in Banking Services at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or 13 16 01.

Media contact: Kelly Lawler, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, mobile 0408 481 864