After studying a Certificate III in Captive Animals at TAFE NSW Kingscliff, Tiana Miles secured her dream job as a Marine Animal Specialist at Sea World on the final day of her course.

As part of a training program offered by TAFE NSW, students studying a Certificate III in Captive Animals have the opportunity to gain practical skills and real world experience by completing a weekly practical lesson at Sea World or Paradise Country.

After completing work placement with Sea World working with seals, bears and in the education team in Shark Bay, Tiana was offered a full time role and now spends her days working with her favourite animal, Sumi the dolphin.

According to the Federal Government’s Job Outlook agency, strong growth is expected for roles working with animals. There were 19,800 Animal Attendants and Trainers in 2020. The number of workers is likely to reach 21,000 by 2025.

Tiana already has a Bachelor of Science majoring in Zoology under her belt from the University of Queensland.

“I turned to TAFE NSW for practical skills and work experience in order to get my foot in the door at a leading animal institution. The TAFE NSW course was incredible, I graduated with hands on industry experience and connections.”

“I now spend my days introducing people to the dolphins doing guest interactions, training, husbandry and enrichment. It was hugely beneficial to get experience at a world renowned animal facility and learn on the job.”

“It’s been my dream to work with dolphins at Sea World since I was a kid and thanks to TAFE NSW, I get to live that dream.”

Sea World Head of Marine Sciences, Wayne Phillips said Village Roadshow Theme Park’s close relationship with TAFE NSW enables us great opportunity to foster the next generation of zookeepers and animal trainers locally, and give locals passionate about animals and conservation a gateway to pursue that passion and make it a career.

“Village Roadshow Theme Parks have hired numerous TAFE NSW graduates and will continue to work with TAFE NSW in offering students the opportunity to have placement where they can get hands-on experience working with animals.”

To explore the range of animal related courses available at TAFE NSW and via TAFE Digital, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 for more information. 
 

Media contact: Sarah Lievore, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au