Media release

TAFE NSW Albury | 13 February 2026

Corowa locals kick-start their careers

“TAFE NSW gave me a fresh start and a place where I felt like I belonged. The practical learning style really suited me. I now have a clear career direction and am working hard to secure a hairdressing apprenticeship,”

Mikayla Lawrence, TAFE NSW student

Corowa locals are carving out fresh futures thanks to their commitment to the Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways at TAFE NSW Albury.

The program builds essential skills to pursue further education or employment. It’s helping locals improve their literacy, numeracy and workplace communication skills. It also encourages students to set study and employment goals in a supportive, nurturing environment.

17-year-old graduate Mikayla Lawrence said completing the TAFE NSW course was one of the best decisions she’s made.

Advisor stands at a table guiding two students during a meeting, with a laptop open in front of them, notebooks on the table, and a TAFE NSW screen displayed in the background of the modern meeting room.

17-year-old Brooke Ramadge said, “The course helped me build social and professional skills in a smaller, supportive group.”

“I’m currently working in the hospitality industry and would like to further my skills in this area. I’ve now learned practical skills that will help me in any job I go into.

“I’d encourage others who are looking to develop their employability skills to study this course.”

For a semester, TAFE NSW graduates, Brooke and Mikayla travelled by bus from Corowa to Albury three times a week. They showed incredible resilience and dedication to their goals.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Equity, Foundation Skills, Aboriginal Culture and Language, Jennifer Cochrane, said that rain, shine, or early mornings, the students made the journey to classes at TAFE NSW Albury.

“Their achievements are a testament to what’s possible with the right support, a clear goal and a whole lot of grit,” Ms Cochrane said.

“All our students are young people who have left school early. Every day I see each student take ownership of their own learning. The course gives them a fresh opportunity to develop their literacy, numeracy and communication skills. Students also develop tools to enter the workforce or continue their education”.

“I am lucky to witness firsthand the transformational impact this course is having on the lives of young people in our community.”

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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