2LT Local News

39 students from across Australia and NZ graduate in Lithgow

Aug 10, 2019

LITHGOW, Central West, NSW, Australia – TAFE NSW Lithgow outdoor recreation students on Friday graduated from courses that will equip them with job-ready skills to take on the great outdoors.

Bathurst MP Paul Toole said 39 students, who relocated to Lithgow from across Australia and New Zealand to study at TAFE NSW, graduated with a Certificate III or IV in Outdoor Recreation.

“The TAFE NSW courses provide students with hands-on skills to manage activities and supervise others as an outdoor guide or instructor,” Mr Toole said Friday.

“TAFE NSW has strong connections with a wide range of organisations and employers such as Outward Bound Australia and The Outdoor Education Group who are leaders in the industry, with many students undertaking work placements and traineeships.”

“It’s rewarding to hear that many of the students have gained ongoing employment at these organisations,” he said.

“TAFE NSW research suggests it’s the perfect time for the new graduates to be entering the outdoor recreation industry as employers have identified the need for workers with improved training options and skills sets such as tour guide accreditation.”

TAFE NSW Certificate IV in Outdoor Recreation student, Jessica Moresco from Melbourne, switched from being a Registered Nurse to pursuing a career in outdoor recreation.

“I’ve always loved being outdoors and wanted to see where the course could take me,” Jessica said.

“I initially studied a Certificate III in Outdoor Recreation and then continued with the Certificate IV while commencing work with the Outdoor Education Group.”

“I’ve been able to apply the hands-on skills I have learnt at TAFE NSW such as abseiling, rock climbing, canoeing and bush walking in my role as a group leader of school group camps and journey programs across Victoria,” Jessica added.

“The course has really set me up for a successful career doing a job I love.”

Pictured: Bathurst MP Paul Toole with graduating TAFE student Jessica Moresco (third from left in green jacket) and TAFE Lithgow teachers, from left: Travis Frenay, Georgina MacSmith, Jess Carroll-Germech and Rachael Kennedy.