TAFE NSW has launched its first automotive school-based program for year 10 and 11 students in the Blue Mountains, giving aspiring mechanics the opportunity to learn hands-on skills while they are still at school.

TAFE NSW Wentworth Falls recently welcomed students from Katoomba High school for the formal ribbon cutting to launch the program, where they were able to tour the hands-on automotive learning facilities.

The automotive program was developed by TAFE NSW in response to feedback from high schools in the local area that was a huge interest in the trade among Blue Mountains students and many were looking to pursue a career in the automotive industry after high school.

Due to the overwhelming demand, TAFE NSW will deliver the program to a second class for Springwood High School and Winmalee High School students.

TAFE NSW Automotive Team Leader, Chris Roberts, said the four-week program will give students an insight into the industry, which is currently facing a skills shortage.

“The program is designed to be a hands-on taster for students to experience what a career in the automotive industry and training at TAFE NSW looks like,” he said.

“Students will learn how to check tyre pressure and dismantle car parts as well as be introduced to safe workplace practices, which are great entry-level skills to pursue employment.”

The program will address the skill shortages within the industry by encouraging students to take up the trade after high school as 23,000 job openings in automotive are forecasted over the next five years.[1]

Katoomba High School Transition Adviser, Thomas Daniels, said students were excited to begin the course.

“It’s good to see TAFE NSW is responding to the needs of the community and giving students the opportunity to explore whether they’d like to pursue a career in automotive.”

“Katoomba is neither city nor country so students often have to travel long distances to pursue further study after school. The TAFE NSW program has been met with great interest from students because they can get ahead in their career while they are still at school.”

TAFE NSW offers a range of automotive courses at their state-of-the-art-facilities in western Sydney. To enrol or enquire about the courses offered at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Jessica Cortis, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, 0456 170 211