1 December 2020

A landmark program aimed at giving local high school students a “taste test” of the trades at TAFE NSW Narrandera is helping change the career trajectory – and the lives - of participants.

The NSW Government Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program aims to strengthen ties between local industry and high schools, supporting students to plan their future career path.

As part of RIEP, TAFE NSW Narrandera has been hosting a group of 14 Narrandera High School and Ardlethan Central School Year 10 students for one day a week over the past four weeks for a crash course in welding, construction, metals and engineering, and agriculture.

Narrandera High School careers advisor Brett Ireland said he had watched the seven boys and four girls from his school grow their skills and confidence through the course.

“This could be literally life-changing for some of these students and some of them almost seem like different people since starting the course,” Mr Ireland said.

“It’s important for Narrandera High School to give our students hands-on experiences where possible so they can better make their own decisions about their careers.

“To expose them to a new learning environment where they are treated as adults and to see their confidence grow through the experience is hugely valuable.”

TAFE NSW expert teachers have offered the students a primer in the different trade areas, using TAFE NSW Narrandera’s state-of-the-art Connected Learning Centre and hi-tech equipment like a virtual welder to enhance the learning experience.

TAFE NSW Narrandera TAFE Services Coordinator Josie Marks said the course included presentations from local employers in the various trade areas.

“Local employers are crying out for skilled tradespeople and this is a golden opportunity for students to start their journey to a high-demand and rewarding career,” Ms Marks said.

“This is the first time we’ve offered this course and it’s wonderful to be able to give local students some real practical skills and experience in different trade areas.”

To find out more about studying at TAFE NSW Narrandera, phone 13 16 01 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

Media contact: Daniel Johns, TAFE NSW Media and Communications – Business Partner, 6938 1441, mobile 0477 722 428.