School leavers can take advantage of a fee-free training which will equip them with skills they need to secure jobs.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The NSW Business Chamber 2019 Workforce Skills Survey has reported that 61.8% of businesses with skills shortages are unable to recruit suitable staff and that they are carrying more job vacancies in 2019 compared to 2017.
Across the Southern Highlands region infrastructure, commercial cookery, plumbing and disability services are just some of the industries experiencing ongoing skills shortages.
TAFE NSW Regional General Manager, Jonathan Davis, said "TAFE NSW works closely with industry to ensure that we're delivering a pipeline of skilled employees who are equipped with the practical skills and work experience that employers are looking for.
"Considering the range of fee-free training opportunities available, such as the NSW Government Smart and Skilled and Fee-free apprenticeships initiatives, there has never been a better time for school leavers to pursue a career in industries with employment and career progression opportunities."
The Joyce review of vocational education noted this year that stakeholders were concerned that students who would otherwise thrive in VET careers are being directed towards higher education options where they may not succeed.
"While university may be a viable option for some school leavers, it's important that vocational education and training is considered a 'plan A' for school leavers to pursue careers in areas that they are passionate about," Mr Davis said.
Owner of MDB Building Mark Bailey thought it was a good timing to encourage school leavers, and their influencers, to understand the range of career opportunities in the Southern Highlands region.
"I'm a TAFE NSW-trained custom builder running a business where we do bespoke renovations and extensions. My apprentices do every systematic approach to building from footings to finials.
"The industry growth in the Highlands is consistent and most of the time we're on the lookout for apprentices, in fact I have two apprentices at the moment."
Mr Davis has also taken the opportunity to reassure school leavers that, regardless of their ATAR, there are a range of degrees and pathways to higher education available at TAFE NSW.
Read also: Don't let marks determine your path
