If you’re already a teacher, this course will give you useful insights into being an effective educational leader. Learn how to apply for and succeed in academic leadership roles. Gain an understanding of adult learning principles, best teaching practices, teamwork, problem solving and using technology. You’ll also explore adult learning theories and how they relate to the learning environment.
Studying this course will prepare you to excel in education, training and assessment across different settings like TAFE NSW, private organisations and corporate training. You’ll also learn how to mentor and support staff and how to analyse workplace and student issues to find and develop alternative solutions. Explore adult learning models and understand how they work in real teaching situations.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
design, deliver and assess programs by communicating clearly and using your knowledge and skills to help learners succeed
organise, implement and evaluate your training and assessment, including the use of digital technology
carry out academic research and apply it in real situations, including using adult learning theories to plan, design and deliver training for different learners
explore advanced facilitation and assessment methods such as Humanism, Constructivism and Behaviourism, and apply Universal Design for Learning plus the learning frameworks of Fink, Kolb and Bloom
evaluate learning in different settings like classrooms, workplaces and online, reflecting on and improving programs you or your staff have delivered
solve problems using innovative, critical and creative thinking in academic leadership.
Develop specialist skills to gain an advantage in the job market
Graduate with a higher education Diploma of Adult Education.
Skills and knowledge that are transferable across many industry sectors.
Positive interpersonal, teamwork and leadership skills you can apply in the workplace.
The confidence to communicate effectively when teaching adults using a variety of text and media.
The skills and knowledge to solve problems using innovative, critical and creative thinking.
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol.
a Certificate IV Training and Assessment (either TAE40110, TAE40116 or TAE40122), as evidenced by a certified copy of your transcript, and
a minimum of 2 years of experience in teaching Vocational Education and Training (VET) in the last 5 years. This must be evidenced by either a resume or letter from an employer with contact details for verification, and
evidence of professional networks and industry currency in your vocational discipline or the completion of the unit TAEPDD401 - Work Effectively in the VET Sector.
Attend a pre-admission interview where you may also be asked to complete a short literacy and numeracy task - this helps us to understand how we can support your study success and provide you with any necessary support
Your certificates, transcripts and other entry requirement evidence must be certified through a Justice of the Peace or other authorising officer
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
a leadership position as a teacher or be a teacher aspiring to lead a team of teachers
access to other teachers you can mentor
access to students so you can apply your support strategies in real time.
You do not require an ATAR score for entry into this course.
If you are unable to meet the entry requirements, you may be eligible for special admission.
Please continue with your application and you will be guided to identify as mature aged (at least 21 years old in your first year of study) or disadvantaged (disability, serious or chronic illness, interrupted education, lack of support for study, serious personal problems and/or serious family responsibilities).
We tailor our courses to meet local community needs, so some campuses may have extra entry requirements. Check your preferred location for details. Need help preparing? Contact us for support.
This simple tool guides you to a suitable course level based on your foundation skills and confidence.
Our graduates go onto roles like: VET teacher, lead teacher of a discipline, head teacher, academic lead and team leader.
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Alternative pathways into this course
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
The Diploma of Adult Education does not have any post-graduate courses.
Strengthen your expertise and expand your employability
The Diploma of Adult Education does not have any related courses.
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you’re successful you’ll achieve your qualification faster.
If you have a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment plus evidence of 2 years of experience in teaching Vocational Education and Training (VET), you may apply for credit for the following subjects:
AEDEL106A - Working in Adult Education
AEDEL104A - Teaching Adults
AEDSN104A - Assessment Fundamentals
AEDEL105A - Work Placement
Please note that beyond these 4 subjects, no further Recognition of Prior Learning will be granted.
Completion of this course requires you to successfully complete 8 subjects (80 credit points) made up of 6 core subjects and 2 elective subjects.
Please note, not all subjects are offered at every TAFE NSW location, every semester. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the subjects offered at that location.
Core Subjects
Elective Subjects
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs - be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning - an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations - get social with our student community