Free TAFE accessibility ‘life changing’

BY the end of last month, one thousand, one hundred and fifty-nine people in the Ballarat area had enrolled in Federation TAFE’s free courses for 2020.

Twenty-year-old, Alexander Dixon is one of these students, currently completing the tertiary institution’s free Certificate II Automotive course.

Having experienced some panel beating work, his job provider directed him to the opportunity, and without this free course, Mr Dixon may not have had access to this level of education in an area he’s come to love.

“If I didn’t get told about there being a free TAFE course, I wouldn’t have thought about going to do automotive through TAFE at all,” he said.

“It means a lot to me to be there. Most of the jobs I’ve had, I haven’t loved. To find something that I enjoy, that won’t burden me with expense, and it’s not too far away, it’s a really good feeling.

“Anyone should do free TAFE if they have the chance. It’s been life changing for me.”

Based at Federation TAFE’s SMB campus, Mr Dixon feels well supported in his practical learning.

“I love the hands-on work, and I didn’t think I would enjoy this career so much. When I need help, there are people willing to help me.

“The teachers aren’t just in basic automotive. We have a small engines engineer, a diesel expert, and even a teacher that worked in Formula 1, so they can help you with anything,” he said.

As a result of his performance, Mr Dixon was offered a job trial with JCB Ballarat.

“Up there I did very heavy diesel work, working on farming equipment like backhoes and diggers. I enjoyed it a lot more than normal automotive.”

Member for Buninyong, Michaela Settle said TAFE is producing the “next wave” of critical employees.

“Federation TAFE is playing an important role in providing a pipeline of essential healthcare workers, such as nurses,” she said.

“It’s also helping re-train those facing unemployment and underemployment as the state moves towards COVID-19 recovery.”