TAFE can assist you in overcoming the language or numeracy difficulties standing in the way of you achieving your goals

Part of TAFE's mission is to make sure those who might otherwise fall through the cracks – people who left school early, migrants from non-English-speaking backgrounds, refugees – can access the kind of educational opportunities others take for granted.

The most common problem facing those who'd like to gain a qualification is not having sufficient English language skills to cope in a classroom situation where information is often presented rapidly and in a way that involves the use of a lot of technical words or jargon.

TAFE NSW offers English language courses ranging from beginner to advanced on a part-time and full-time basis, in which students learn how to listen to, speak and write in English. And for those who want to do a course that focuses on more than just language skills, many TAFE Colleges offer a Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program, which covers computer skills, reading, spelling, writing and maths. This kind of program provides a solid foundation for those wanting to undertake a trade or vocational course.

TAFE Colleges often have a Multicultural Access Centre – a specialist library for people from language backgrounds other than English. These libraries have resources devoted to adult literacy and numeracy dealing with cross-cultural communication.

TAFE NSW also has Multicultural Education Coordinators who can help you with a range of support services and provide an interpreter to help you communicate in your language. They can also offer advice on recognition of your overseas skills and qualifications, and tutorial support for English, maths, science and other subjects.

If you'd like more information on how TAFE can assist you in overcoming the language or numeracy difficulties standing in the way of you achieving your goals, visit TAFE NSW. If you require an interpreter you can call the free Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.