Lithgow locals, Lily Dulhunty and Kasey Cross are encouraging early school leavers to consider studying a one-year TAFE NSW High School Certificate (HSC) equivalent course as a pathway to further study.
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For Lily, proving that she was capable of completing her HSC after leaving school early to have a baby became a priority. She decided to study a Certirficate IV in Tertiary Preparation (TPC) at TAFE NSW Lithgow and is awaiting acceptance into university to study a Bachelor of Youth Work.
"It's been a challenging year, our house burnt down in the bushfires and we lost almost everything, then COVID-19 hit and our teachers had to work with us virtually for a while," Lily said.
"It hasn't all been smooth sailing, but we completed the course thanks to the supportive TAFE NSW teachers and I'm looking forward to university. TPC has really changed my life."
By studying at TAFE NSW, Kasey achieved an exceptional Tertiary Entrance Score of 293 out of a possible 300. This equates to an ATAR in the mid 90s. She believes the TPC has provided her with the hands-on skills to be able to take the next step in her study journey.
"I did feel confident in my writing skills before starting the course, but I learnt how to be focussed in my research, how to construct an academic essay and reference properly," Kasey said.
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"School isn't for everyone and I am so glad there is an alternative that allows you to be supported and study in a relaxed environment.
"I'm heading to university feeling confident in my skills and thrilled with my decision to study the HSC equivalent at TAFE NSW."
TAFE NSW Career Pathways and Employability Skills Teacher, Narelle Druitt said both Lily and Kasey were self-motivated and engaged students.
"They adapted well to the challenges that 2020 brought them. The TPC allowed them to gain the skills and confidence to be able to pursue higher education studies at university," she said.
"Lily and Kasey are perfect examples of students coming to TAFE NSW to get the skills to be in a career they'll love."
The Tertiary Preparation Certificate is available for semester one enrolment now. For more information visit, www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.
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