As school leavers across the state receive their HSC results, 50 TAFE NSW graduates are celebrating their success in a university preparation course that provides access to universities without the HSC.
Anais Hamilton of Ourimbah is one of the high-scoring graduates who studied a Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (TPC) and received a Tertiary Entrance Score of an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank) equivalent of at least 97.
The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (TPC) is a nationally accredited qualification offering a Tertiary Entrance Score, an ATAR equivalent, recognised by universities and employers as a Year 12 equivalent qualification.
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, over the next 10 years, more than nine out of 10 new jobs expected to be created will require post-secondary qualifications.
“I wasn’t keen on completing my HSC in a traditional high school environment and a friend told me about the TPC at TAFE NSW,” Anais said.
“The TPC was a really positive experience for me, it’s a lot less pressure and in my opinion a more straightforward path to get your HSC equivalent.
“I’m a bit of perfectionist and I try my best in everything I do, so it feels good to be rewarded for my hard work with a high score.
“I’m really confident now that I can go to university if I want to and I feel assured that there are a lot of options available to me.”
Christopher Hitchens of Watanobbi was another high-scoring student who said that he initially attempted his HSC during COVID-19 lockdowns.
“I didn’t do as well as I’d hoped and so I looked to TAFE NSW for bridging courses and tertiary entrance,” he said.
“It really worked for me and now I’m headed to Canberra where I’m looking to study ancient history at university.
“To anyone considering studying at TAFE NSW I’d say think about what works for you, it worked out great for me.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said the success of the latest cohort of graduates highlighted how alternative pathways were available for students to achieve their career and education goals.
“About 40 per cent of TAFE NSW graduates who passed the Tertiary Preparation Certificate this year received ATAR equivalents of at least 90, which is a testament to their dedication throughout the year,” Whan said.
“There are many pathways to employment and further education.
“The Tertiary Preparation Certificate is a great option for those looking to gain practical skills in researching and writing essays in an adult learning environment.
“Completing the course has the potential to change lives by increasing employment opportunities, preparing students for the workforce of the future, and paving the way for lifelong learning.”
Central Coast high achievers: Gosford campus – Christopher Hitchens, Anais Hamilton, Mikalah Strickling, Lydia Markey, Chelsea Tingle, Matthew Short, Robert Russell; Wyong campus – Elleena Roche and Chloe Keirs.