South West TAFE to develop and deliver courses in Stawell

Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney announced a $435,000 investment in South West TAFE to deliver courses in Stawell.

Certificate III in Individual Support and Certificate II in Horticulture will become easier to access for residents of Stawell and surrounds.

South West TAFE will develop and deliver the courses in Stawell. 

“(Is is important to) join the dots where we know we have a need, where we have gaps ... for a course where there are real jobs,” Ms Tierney said.

“We want people to train locally and for local people to get the skills necessary to get the jobs … that are in this district.” 

Eventide Homes chief executive Sue Blakey said the announcement was “wonderful news” for the Stawell community.

Mrs Blakey said Stawell and the district had an above average ageing population and Eventide Homes would need to triple their aged care workforce by 2050.

“We are confident students will take on this training and choose to take a career in aged care,” she said.

Ebony Jenkins is a success story from the course at Eventide Homes.

Ms Jenkins said she worked in the kitchen before an opportunity to upskill was presented.

“For the past 10 months I have spent two days a week in the training room at Eventide Homes and one day learning online from home,” she said.

Ms Jenkins said this was first time she has completed formal training.

“I found the environment to be very supportive. I have recently changed my employment to a personal care worker since completing the course,” she said.

Mrs Blakey said having the training on site enabled students to access mentoring through staff.

“Students receive invaluable interaction while studying through staff and residents,” she said.