High school students urged to consider TAFE options

5/4/93

Senior high school students across the State are being urged to consider Technical and Further Education (TAFE) as a viable alternative to university for their tertiary study.

TAFE is sending letters this week to 290 principals of high schools and independent schools, 10,000 secondary teachers and to 46,000 Year 11 and Year 12 students, encouraging them to plan now for TAFE entry.

Education, Employment and Training Minister Norman Moore said today the letters were urging students contemplating going to TAFE, to sit down with a teacher or counsellor to decide how best to use their preferences.

Mr Moore said that leaving such planning to August, when TAFE application forms would be available, might be too late.

"Places in TAFE courses go to the most suitable and qualified people, so students should think hard and plan well about what courses they would like to take," the Minister said.

"Getting into some TAFE courses, such as child care, hospitality, architectural drafting and enrolled nursing is just as competitive as getting into some university courses, and by taking action now, through choosing the right subjects and meeting other special requirements, students can greatly improve their chances.

"Work experience in desired subject areas can carry some weight in helping a student win a place, so students should be finding out what opportunities there are to get such experience in fields they favour."

Mr Moore said TAFE was becoming increasingly important as a tertiary option, and students should be aware that applicants were ranked and selected on the basis of special criteria.

The criteria were specific to each TAFE course and used combinations drawn from secondary school graduation results (not TEE scores), preferred secondary subjects, work experience, folios of school work, and an interview process.

The Minister said creative thinking and prompt action now could save much disappointment later.

Mature-aged students who would like information to help them plan entry into 1994 TAFE courses should contact their local TAFE college from May 3.  They could also call the 'Smart Move' hot-line on 325 9322 or 008 999 167 (country toll-free).

Media contact: Ross Storey 321 1444 / 222 9595