How practical experience creates job-ready graduates

TAFE NSW

22 Aug 2019

In today’s higher education landscape, there’s much focus on developing job-ready graduates through experiential learning.

Several course programmes now include industry-linked projects and internships to help prepare students for the workplace.

The workplace is becoming increasingly competitive, and employers are looking to hire those who stand out and work well independently.

They are also looking for those who are well-equipped with certain soft skills such as collaborative thinking, critical thinking, innovation and adaptability.

How does one acquire these skills? They must be developed naturally through practical experience and can’t simply be taught in the classroom.

Source: TAFE NSW

Through internships and networking events, students can build these skills and learn how to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

But learning doesn’t end with graduation. For those who didn’t receive adequate practical opportunities during their university years and want to upskill to take their career to new heights, there’s still the option of enrolling in a training course.

Variety of practical experience opportunities

TAFE NSW in Australia offers vocational education and training, helping students and employees build relevant skills and succeed in their careers.

The varied range of practical experience ensures that students have multiple channels to develop their soft skills before they graduate, at the same time as upskilling those already in work.

As the largest training and education provider in Australia, TAFE NSW provides high quality, personalised education that incorporates industry and business partnerships.

Source: TAFE NSW

This training organisation is constantly evolving, adapting courses and facilities to keep up with community and industry needs.

Here, experienced teachers have active industry networks to ensure students get the highest level of practical training.

Yeara Chaham from Israel studied Graphic Design at TAFE NSW and gained plenty of hands-on experience. She said, “I chose TAFE NSW because I knew there was a bigger chance of me getting hired after the course.

“Compared to a lot of university degrees, what we learned is very practical and hands-on. Even in my first internship while studying, I saw a great difference between how quickly and accurately I was able to do my work compared to other interns there (who did not attend TAFE NSW).

“Our teachers were very supportive, and always did everything in their ability to help us succeed. All the teachers I’ve had were incredibly good designers and amazing teachers. I never felt like they didn’t have time for me and I’ve learnt a lot from them.

Source: TAFE NSW

“They made sure that everything we learnt in class will help us be successful in a job interview. The classes also covered a wide range of subjects, everything from print to digital, which gave me a lot more options when I was applying for work.”

Supporting students on their career journeys

As the world becomes more interconnected, workplaces are crossing geographical boundaries and there’s a need for people who can communicate well with others from all walks of life.

TAFE NSW prepares students for these sorts of workplaces by exposing them to a diverse and inclusive environment.

Eunah Kyung holds a Diploma in Hospitality Management and is taking the Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery to further her career.

The South Korean international student said, “The qualifications I have obtained and will gain this year at TAFE NSW have opened the door for a new career that I longed to build. My volunteering and work experience in the Hospitality Industry here in Australia have broadened my horizons.

Source: TAFE NSW

“My courses, both Hospitality Management and Commercial Cookery, offer a number of advantages to not only students but also customers, as Hamilton Campus runs its own café and restaurant on the campus.

“We learn and practice skills and knowledge in class, then make the most use of them by participating in the restaurant and cafe shifts. Furthermore, our customers have the benefit of affordably enjoying quality foods, three course meals that we create and produce.”

TAFE NSW holds a strong reputation for developing career-ready graduates through multiple practical experience opportunities, from which students reap the benefits for the length of their careers.

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