OPENING A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES

“ANY school graduate who wants a rewarding career should definitely take up the offer of a free TAFE course – these opportunities don’t come along that often.”

That’s according to 19-year-old Kaitlin Elliot, who recently gained an agriculture qualification thanks to free TAFE for Year 12 graduates and secured a job as a stock hand at a Dalby feedlot.

She now has her sights set on business studies and a career in rural property and agriculture management or education in the agriculture sector.

She got a head start on her career through TAFE at school and free TAFE to complete a Certificate II and III in Rural Operations.

She encourages other school leavers to investigate TAFE Queensland’s courses and “give it a go”.

“They’re honestly the best courses,” she said.

Already more than 3000 Year 12 graduates are studying a TAFE course for free, and that number is expected to grow.

The 160 free courses across Queensland are attracting plenty of attention from school leavers. Those who are undecided about their futures are urged to look at the range of free courses in jobs growth areas.

New data indicates there will be a need for health and aged-care workers and thousands of hospitality employees over the next five years.

The Department of Jobs and Small Business forecasts twothirds of the jobs of the future will be in four sectors: Healthcare and social assistance; construction; education and training; and professional, scientific and technical services.

Those interested in those careers can start with a free Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Education Support, Hospitality, Kitchen Operations, Individual Support or Community Services and enrol directly at TAFE Queensland.

Others can study while undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship. Tel: 1300 369 935 https://desbt.qld. gov.au/training/ training-careers/ incentives/freetafe