A Turramurra local and TAFE NSW Hornsby graduate is encouraging early school-leavers to consider a vocational alternative to the HSC, as she believes it has been vital in kickstarting her career in project management.  

According to the Project Management Institute, by 2027, the need for project management will grow by 33 per cent in Australia.1 

Bella O’Byrne, 17, completed a Certificate III and IV in Business Administration at TAFE NSW Hornsby and is now employed full-time as an Assistant Project Manager at Bramwell Homes. 

“After enrolling in a TVET course in Business Administration, I realised I had found my calling and went on to complete further study at TAFE NSW, which has really set me up for success,” Bella said. 

“From a young age, I knew I wanted to follow in my mum’s footsteps and work in project management. While it was a difficult decision for me to leave school, I knew that the HSC was not for me and I was eager to get a head start on my dream career. 

“I’m really enjoying my current role and applying a lot of the skills I learnt at TAFE NSW. I am looking forward to continuing to build my skills in the workplace and becoming a project manager one day.” 

Managing Director of Bramwell Homes, David Gooding, said he is thrilled to have Bella join the Bramwell Homes team.  

“Bella’s ability to think laterally and to be prepared for her role is testament to her can do attitude and valuable skills learnt by completing her Certificate IV in Business Administration. Bella is an asset to our team,” David said. 

TAFE NSW Head Teacher, Fiona Walker, said the Certificate IV in Business Administration provides students with valuable skills and opens up endless career opportunities.  

“Through the TAFE NSW Certificate IV in Business Administration, students will learn theoretical and practical skills such as writing complex business documents, using different software packages and overseeing projects,” Fiona said. 

“The nationally recognised course teaches students, like Bella, how to be an indispensable part of any team, including across exciting industries such as technology, finance, advertising, travel and education. 

“Students can also take their education and career further by transitioning to a Diploma of Business Administration or a Bachelor in Business at TAFE NSW.” 

To find out more about business courses at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.  

Media contact: Emma Woodward, Communications Specialist