Expanded course delivery a boost for health careers
The expansion of course offerings across GOTAFE and Wodonga TAFE is already improving access to education.
GOTAFE now delivers the Certificate III in Pathology Collection (HLT37215) at Wodonga TAFE’s McKoy Street Campus – the first of several expanded courses resulting from the amalgamation of the two institutes under Northern Victoria Institute of TAFE (NVITAFE).
It’s a move NVITAFE CEO Phil Paterson said was already benefitting students and industry.
“By combining our capability across campuses, we’re increasing access to training in high-demand industries and reducing the need for students to travel long distances to study,” he said.
“Healthcare workforce demand in regional Victoria remains strong, and this expansion ensures students can train locally and work locally.”
For Wodonga resident Tammy Welch, studying locally has opened up a pathway which was “not an option” in the past due to the travel involved.
“I saw this course advertised in December – I was the first person to apply,” she said.
“I’ve got three special needs children so I need to be close to home.”
Tammy plans to use the course as a first step into a Nursing career.
“Going back into the workforce after 18 years, I saw this as a good pathway. After this I can work while doing my Diploma of Nursing.”
Teacher Julia Barwick said she was loving the opportunity to expand the course into Wodonga.
“Demand is extremely high for quality pathology collectors in this region and we have strong industry partnerships. All of the students who finished the course in Wangaratta last year are now employed,” she said.
“A few of the students are doing this course as a pathway into Nursing or other health professions. Some are nervous about going to university, and this is a great pathway, where they get hands-on learning, get a qualification and start to work.
“I love it – I’m so passionate about seeing them learn.”
Mr Paterson said the expansion formed part of a broader approach to strengthening course access across the region.
“Additional courses will continue to roll out across campuses as the NVITAFE integration progresses,” he said.
“This is a landmark time for education in Northern Victoria.”