Media release

The Paid to Learn team was one of four employee award winners applauded for their work in supporting self-empowerment opportunities for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students and communities.

Project Manager Skills and Implementation Team, Natasha Cutbush, said, “Our efforts have played a leading role in strengthening Aboriginal representation across TAFE NSW. We work closely with the Aboriginal Employment team to develop and embed culturally sensitive recruitment practices that help guarantee equitable employment opportunities for Aboriginal candidates.”

“This extends into Aboriginal communities, with the Paid to Learn team forming strong partnerships through dedicated outreach and support initiatives, then onto providing culturally appropriate training resources.

“As a result, cultural education has flourished within the Paid to Learn training environment, with the inclusion of initiatives such as yarning circles, Welcome to Country ceremonies, and the integration of the Mob@TAFE app reinforcing our commitment to inclusion and respect.”

TAFE NSW Managing Director Chloe Read recognised the encouraging employment outcomes for new Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander TAFE NSW teachers through the Paid to Learn program.

“Paid to Learn has delivered significant results in boosting the number of skilled teachers we have at TAFE NSW, including a number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tradespeople looking to share their skills and experience by becoming TAFE NSW teachers,” she said.

“Cultural diversity in our workforce is incredibly valuable and supports more inclusive planning, decision-making, and service delivery, all of which translate into better learning outcomes for our students.”

Media contact: Rob Virtue, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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