TAFE NSW has moved to introduce a new Certificate III in Joinery apprenticeship course at TAFE NSW Orange to meet the demand for skilled trades in the wake of COVID-19.  

With many people forced to spend more time at home, home improvements such as new kitchens and bathrooms have become a priority for many households.  

Zylem owner, Richard Hoskin, said it was perfect timing for the course to be offered locally to apprentices in the Central West. 

“Demand has been strong, and it is pleasing to see this course now being offered in Orange, which means local apprentices don’t need to travel to Sydney to complete their training.” Mr Hoskin said. 

We need employees to gain broader skills in joinery, which includes construction in panel and solid timber, IT skills for computerised equipment, project management for domestic and commercial work and teamwork. 

“TAFE NSW has a reputation for providing apprentices with these hands-on skills ready to hit the ground running in their workplaces. Zylem will be enrolling new apprentices in the course in 2021.” 

According to the Australian Financial Review, over the past six months, job orders for kitchen renovations have increased nationally by 79 per cent. 

TAFE NSW Construction Teacher, Sue Priest, said it was an ideal time for employers to consider employing an apprentice to meet skills demands, with appealing subsidies and assistance available through the NSW Government’s JobTrainer program. 

“The Certificate III in Joinery will provide apprentices with strong knowledge of current industry practices using state-of-the-art equipment,” Ms Priest said. 

“Students will be equipped with practical skills such as measuring and calculating jobs, using professional trade tools and equipment, assembling cabinets, wall units and counters and much more. 

The Certificate III in Joinery will commence at TAFE NSW Orange on 8 March 2021. 

For more information about TAFE NSW construction and joinery courses available for semester one 2021 enrolment, please visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.  

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515.