20 August 2024

A Wauchope mum-of-four and domestic violence survivor has credited TAFE NSW with helping her support vulnerable people by launching a career in the booming community services sector.

As National Skills Week begins, the Australian Government’s Jobs and Skills Report has listed social workers as one of the top 20 occupations in demand nationally, indicating a strong demand for community services workers on the mid-North Coast.

TAFE NSW, Australia’s largest registered training organisation, is building a strong pipeline of these workers through its range of community services courses, which can be studied face-to-face or virtually.

One such worker is Wauchope mum-of-four Stephanie Smith, 35, a former bakery owner who turned to TAFE NSW to find a new career after a series of personal crises.

Ms Smith enrolled in the Certificate IV in Community Services via virtual classroom in 2023, securing a role this month as a project officer of the Custody to Community program with Hepatitis NSW.

She said TAFE NSW gave her the hands-on skills and experience to make a running start into the industry.

“When my marriage ended and I needed support, I really wasn’t sure what services were out there and that was an eye-opener for me,” Ms Smith said.

“It made me realise there was a gap in my community and I wanted to make a career out of being the person to help others in my position.

“To be able to study my TAFE NSW course online was a godsend and meant even if the kids were sick I could still sit with them and attend my classes.

“This is such an amazing industry and there’s so much room for growth.”

Ms Smith has recently commenced a Diploma of Community Services at TAFE NSW to help further her career prospects.

Running from 19 to 25 August 2024 and in its 14th year, National Skills Week raises the profile and status of vocational learning in providing attractive career opportunities. With the average Australian changing employers every 3.3 years and the jobs market rapidly evolving, the week is key in educating people of all ages about how vocational education and training can empower them to pursue exciting career pathways.

Importantly, these job choices can help plug significant skills gaps experienced by many Australian industries, helping strengthen our communities and economy.

The annual virtual TAFE NSW Open Day takes place during National Skills Week on 22 August, from 9 am to 4 pm. The online event is open to prospective and current students, teachers, industry partners, community connections, and the general public. Throughout, attendees can explore 12 webinars and other on-demand content, take a virtual campus tour, book one-on-one meetings with teachers, or join drop-in sessions to gather information they need to support their lifelong learning goals. 

Register to attend via https://tafenswevents.eventsair.com/virtual-open-day-2024/register

Media contact: Dan Johns, Communications Specialist, Daniel.johns9@tafensw.edu.au, 0477 722 428