To help meet the growing demands of the education sector, TAFE NSW is skilling up the next generation of Learning Support Officers to help school students get the most out of their studies.

Australia spends more than $5 billion on teacher aides in primary and high schools each year, with the workforce projected to grow.

Lily Doble is one of many locals pursing a rewarding career in education support. She is currently studying a Certificate III in Education Support at TAFE NSW Petersham, while working as a School Learning Support Officer at Russell Lea Public School.

“I’ve always loved working with kids and while I was running kids’ art classes, someone mentioned I’d make a great Learning Support Officer. After looking into it, I realised it would be an ideal career path for me and decided to enrol in the Certificate III,” Ms Doble said.

“During the course, I was able to complete work placement which gave me an insight into what it would be like in the workplace. I’m now working full time at Russell Lea Public School and really enjoying it.

“I initially studied at university before realising it wasn’t for me. Studying at TAFE NSW has given me invaluable hands-on experience, along with close access to my teachers so I could gain additional help and support when I needed it.

“As a Learning Support Officer, I get to work with classroom teachers in various grades to provide assistance to students living with a disability or with additional learning and support needs. It’s incredibly rewarding being able to provide tailored support to help students get the most out of their studies and reach their goals.”

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Childhood Education, Sahar Khorrami said TAFE NSW is dedicated to nurturing future teaching aides, ensuring they have the skills they need to make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people.

“As demand for education support officers in Australia grows, TAFE NSW is delivering a pipeline of skilled workers, like Lily, to support the education system,” Ms Khorrami said.

“Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, students learn how to contribute to the preparation and implementation of educational programs and work with young people with diverse needs. It’s great to see students like Lily hitting the ground running and pursuing a rewarding career in the industry.”

Media contact: Emma Hughes, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.hughes51@tafensw.edu.au