O Week marking new beginnings at GOTAFE
Thousands of students have been welcomed to GOTAFE’s campuses across the Goulburn-Ovens region at Orientation Week (O Week) recently.
GOTAFE's O Week events are designed to support and engage new and returning students to meet peers, learn what services are available and get to know their teachers.
Live music, barbecues and interactive games were on offer, as well as a number of information stalls for students.
Executive Director Student Experience Laura Baker said O Week is about welcoming students to an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
“O Week is an opportunity for new students to get a taste of life at our campuses, and for returning students to reconnect with friends and teachers,” Ms Baker said.
“We are committed to ensuring our students have all the tools they need for a successful learning journey.
“Most of all we want them to feel welcome and supported.”
GOTAFE offers over 160 courses over campuses across the Goulburn Ovens region, with the highest numbers of students in the trades and healthcare spaces.
“Our course offerings align with demand from industry across the region,” Ms Baker said.
“More than 60 per cent of our students study in our health and trades courses, which is where we know there is strong demand for qualified workers.”
Victorian Skills Authority (VSA) data indicates that health and trades industries will experience high demand over the coming years across the Goulburn-Ovens regions.
The VSA Employment Forecast Dashboard predicts there will be over 1900 healthcare workers and 1827 construction workers required by 2027.
GOTAFE play a vital role in bridging the skills gap in high demand industries like healthcare and construction, providing education that prepares students for employment.
