TAFE NSW students from the Central West are embracing and reaping the benefits of a Federal Government program aimed to equip jobseekers with hands-on job-ready skills to find employment.

According to the Australian Government Jobs report, young people are more at risk of long-term unemployment. With the youth unemployment rate for the Central West currently sitting at 8.5% just under the national average of 12.2%, the Youth Jobs PaTH program - Prepare, Trial and Hire creates opportunities for young Australians under 25 years to improve their job readiness, work experience, and move away from a lifetime of welfare.

TAFE NSW PaTH Program Teacher, Catherine Player, said a number of students have had great outcomes from the program either gaining employment or going on to further study at TAFE NSW.

“The training is hands-on and relevant. Students work in simulated environments with loads of practical exercises in a range of course areas using a real life scenario such as holding a community bake sale at the end of the program,” Ms Player said.

“Students have to plan and cook the products as well as use their customer service skills to promote and sell the products to customers within the community.

“By the end of the three week program, students have learnt new skills, gained confidence and are ready to navigate their career paths.”

Twenty year old TAFE NSW Parkes student, Hayley Egan took part in the program and is now working in a customer service role at Condobolin IGA.

“I really enjoyed the PaTH program at TAFE NSW, it helped me create my resume, provided me with interview skills along with hands-on skills such as budgeting, baking and interacting with customers,” Ms Egan said.

“It also gave me the confidence to move to a new town, apply for a job and be successful.”

For TAFE NSW Cowra student, Emma Carney, the course took her out of her comfort zone and developed a passion for hospitality.

“Since the PaTH program, I’m now studying a Certificate III in Catering Operations and once I finish this course I plan on working in the hospitality industry,” Ms Carney said.

Ms Player added, “TAFE NSW is running the PaTH program in Wellington and Lithgow from 7-24 May, Coonamble from 11-18 June and Bathurst from 4-21 June.

“There’s never been a better time to develop new skills at TAFE NSW.”

For information visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media Officer, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515.