TAFE NSW is giving local high school students a taste of where a career in vocational education can take them after launching a new program that encourages pursuing employment in the creative and construction industries.

Students from Winmalee High School are participating in an eight-week Creative Toolkit and Landscape Construction program as part of the Youth Engagement Strategy at TAFE NSW Wentworth Falls to learn skills in photography, media works, creative thinking as well as hands-on skills in constructing landscape features like a retaining wall.

Winmalee High School Career Advisor, Cheryll Ruskin, said: “The course is providing students with a taste of the workplace and equipping them with skills that will make strong additions to their resume when they finish school.”

“It’s great that TAFE NSW is helping students get a feel for different industries and find a career that is best suited to them,” Ms Ruskin said. 

TAFE NSW environmental studies teacher, Rick Toovey, said the program had been well received by students.

“It’s great to see so many local students interested in a career in Vocational Education Training. TAFE NSW is all about fostering opportunities for locals and helping them be whatever they want to be by exploring different career paths,” Mr Toovey said.

“TAFE NSW is responding to the needs of the community by offering the opportunity for students to get a taste of two industries that are really integral to the Blue Mountains population.

At least 7.6 per cent of the total residential population of the Blue Mountains is employed in the Creative Industries, compared to the NSW state average of 4.7 per cent.1

To enrol in a TAFE NSW course ahead of semester 1, 2020, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601. 

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