Wagga Wagga and Albury students gain valuable skills on the path to employment
Fourteen First Nations students from Clontarf Foundations in Wagga Wagga and Albury have completed TAFE NSW training courses to build their practical work skills and awareness, thanks to the Inland Rail Skills Academy.
November 1, 2023
The ‘Working Safely at Heights’, and ‘Confined Spaces’ courses were held this month to help students progress with their training and encourage them to further their civil construction studies.
The students in Years 10 to 12 previously completed their White Card certification in September, which is essential for work in the construction industry.
Inland Rail in partnership with the Clontarf Foundation supports the education, training, and employment of First Nations youth in communities along the Inland Rail alignment.
For more information, visit our Education and Scholarships page.
Stephen Jones, Inland Rail Director of Health, Safety and Environment, said:
“We are proud to offer these courses in partnership with TAFE NSW to students along the Inland Rail alignment. This training will open doors for students to gain valuable skills on the path to employment or gaining apprenticeships in the future.
“Inland Rail supports the Clontarf Foundation’s goal of improving the education, life skills, self-esteem, and employment prospects of our First Nations youth, and together, through the Inland Rail Skills Academy, we are providing structure and daily support for First Nations youth in schools across Australia.”
Chad Summers, TAFE NSW Teacher in Aeroskills, said:
“As part of the course, students gain the hands-on practical skills to safely navigate real-world scenarios found in the workplace. This includes using industry-standard equipment, assessing and recognising potential risks, and building communication skills.
“The construction industry is the second largest employer in the Riverina. These skills are in high demand and very attractive to employers across a range of in-demand job roles.
“TAFE NSW is proud to partner with the Clontarf Foundation and Inland Rail Skills Academy to support the next generation of First Nations youth to explore their career options and set students on the path to success.”
Image caption: Students Tom Williams and Matt Davis from Mount Austin Academy