20 May 2020

Here at Year13, we love to debunk misconceptions and stigmas. Today, we are going to be myth busting all the things you’ve heard from peers, teachers and parents surrounding TAFE.

Who knows, TAFE may be the perfect post-school option for you!

1. You have to go to university to get a qualification

We basically exit our mothers’ wombs, and immediately have it drilled into us that you have to go to uni to get qualified… Ok, that was a little dramatic but hey, I studied drama… At TAFE!!

Our mates over at North Metropolitan TAFE (NMTAFE) offer over 350 nationally accredited training courses in an abundance of industries. NMTAFE uses its knowledge and understanding of changing business models and contemporary training techniques to provide solutions to meet the current and future skill requirements of individuals, enterprise and the community. Studying with them will offer you knowledge, experience and strong industry links.

Their courses range from Certificates to Advanced Diplomas that you can study on campus, part-time or online!

That doesn’t sound like uni is the be all end all of post school options now does it?

2. It’s hard to get employed when you finish TAFE

Funnily enough, 2019 showed that TAFE is comfortably ahead when it comes to graduate employment; with 78% of graduates getting a job in the six months following their course, compared to only 68% of University students.
Why is that?

Well, TAFE has such incredible graduate prospects because you learn by doing. They teach practically and hands-on, so you enter whatever workforce you’re passionate about, knowing exactly what needs to be done and how to do it. Employers want intuitive, knowledgeable and experienced employees and TAFE produces them!

Fun fact: Of the 10 careers expected to have the most growth in the next five years in Australia, 9 of these require a minimum TAFE qualification.

3. You won’t earn as much money

A ‘Skilling Australia Foundation’ survey found that 68% of Australians believe that VET graduates earns at least $10,000 less than university students. In some, if not most cases, TAFE students actually earn MORE than their university companions.

Some jobs that a TAFE qualification can lead you to and can earn you smokin’ big bucks include:

- Senior Care Worker (Average Salary: $82,976)

- Construction Manager (Average Salary: $153,213)

- Executive Assistant (Average Salary: $74,838)

 

4. TAFE is the easy route

TAFE is known for being accessible as you don’t need an ATAR to study. This doesn’t particularly mean it’s the easy route.

Whilst TAFE has services and resources to help anyone and everyone learn at their level, TAFE courses tend to be fast paced as you’re learning in six months to two years rather than a university degree that can span from three years to six or even more.

The courses at NMTAFE are also known for being hands-on which requires a willingness to learn and take part!

5. It’s too expensive to pursue

In most cases, TAFE is cheaper than a university degree. In a climate of rapidly escalating university costs, it’s reassuring to know that your TAFE fees will remain the same due to the State Government’s fee freeze promise.

At NMTAFE, they have a few payment solutions to make post-school study financially feasible. You have the ability to apply for a student loan through FEE-HELP if you meet the eligibility requirements. Under this loan scheme, the Australian Government pays your fees directly to NMTAFE on your behalf. You then repay the loan through the tax system when your income exceeds the minimum repayment threshold.

So, if TAFE is sounding like a red-hot option for you, make sure to suss out their North Metropolitan TAFE's expo booth to learn more and enquire!