PROSPECTIVE students can seek support in the lead-up to the SuniTAFE open day on September 18.
Student support officer Lyn Andrew said whether someone was enrolling from high school or college, returning to the workforce, or making a career change, support workers could guide applicants through the process.
Ms Andrew provides disability and medical, counselling and wellbeing and academic supports.
“If you want to study at TAFE but you’re nervous, have concerns or don’t know where to start, you can get in contact with me before the open day to talk through your options and make an informed decision on if TAFE is right for you,” Ms Andrew said.
“We will also be at the open day so you can come visit us while you’re at the campus.”
All students can access tailored supports to address their needs, including LGBTIQA+ students and students who are culturally and linguistically diverse.
Secondary students enrolling in TAFE after graduation with a diagnosed disability can receive 90 days of intensive support to assist with the transition to the new structure and requirements.
“Once you’re in the door, we’re all here to help you,” Ms Andrew said.
A Koori support officer is also available for First Nations students.
Apprentices get support
APPRENTICESHIP support officer Tony Lyons works in conjunction with student support officer Lyn Andrew to meet the needs of TAFE apprentices.
ASOs are part of a Victorian Government initiative to keep more apprentices and help more people complete their training by providing free and confidential support and advice services.
“People who come to TAFE may have struggled at school but are passionate about the work they do here and excel at the practical aspect,” he said.
“We can put in additional support with theory work so they can still participate in their course, phrasing assessment questions differently to help them understand, helping them get their thoughts out of their head and onto the page, and advocating on their behalf to get materials delivered differently.
“If they’re passionate, they’ll do well and people will recognise that, and once they are in the workplace it’ll be a different story.”
Trade support is available to students aged 15 to 24, and out-of-cohort support is offered to students 25 and older.
