TAFE Queensland North Region General Manager, Joann Pyne said the TAFE at School students are getting a jump start on their chosen career paths.

“The TAFE at School program allows Year 11 and 12 students to gain a nationally-recognised qualification while they’re still at high school,” Ms Pyne said.

“The program blends classroom learning with hands-on experience to make sure that graduates are well rounded when they complete their certificates.

“Students involved in TAFE at School also gain credit towards their Queensland Certificate of Education, so it’s a win-win.”

The TAFE at School students training at the Mount Isa campus this week are gaining qualifications in a wide range of exciting industry areas including, automotive, hairdressing, furniture making, construction, plumbing, electrotechnology, engineering, heath care, horticulture, cookery, hospitality and sport and recreation.

Spinifex Year 12 student Jayden Richters said he was getting experience in different types of welding in the program.

“Oxycutting, a lot of grindingand cutting,” he said.

TAFE at School graduates may be able to gain credit towards a higher level certificate qualification or an apprenticeship.

Ms Pyne said employers benefit if they take on a TAFE at School graduate as an apprentice.

“When an apprentice comes to us for training, their workplace still pays their wages; if an apprentice already holds a basic qualification, then they may go to TAFE Queensland less which means they spend more time on the job, earning money for their employer,” she said.

Ms Pyne said now is the time for students and their parents to consider if TAFE at School is the right option for them.

“TAFE at School applications open on July 31 and we will start to offer places to students in October so, to avoid disappointment, students should apply as soon as possible,” Ms Pyne said.