Cert III enrolments popular as part of SA’s Free TAFE initiative

The Certificate III in Early Childhood and Care (ECEC) has been one of the most popular courses in the South Australian Government’s Fee Free TAFE initiative, with figures for 2023 now released. 

More than 10,600 places were used for fee free study at TAFE SA in 2023 creating more skilled workers in areas of demand, including ECEC, in preparation for the roll out of universal 3-year-old preschool.

There has been a strong response from priority student groups including people with a disability (9 per cent), women in non-traditional fields (30 per cent), First Nations students (5 per cent), veterans (13 per cent) and students speaking a language other than English at home (11 per cent).

2023 was the first-time enrolments have increased year on year since 2012, and demand is continuing to be strong with applications to study in 2024 up 65 per cent from two years ago.

In October 2023, a new five-year National Skills Agreement was announced which will see a $2.289 billion investment in training and skills for South Australia.

It will include a boost for TAFE SA to fund extra training places, capital works upgrades and extra support services for students.

“It is fantastic to see such a significant increase in the number of enrolments at TAFE SA especially among priority cohorts,” South Australian Minister for Education Blair Boyer said. 

TAFE SA Chief Executive David Coltman shared that “it has been wonderful to hear the stories of many new students who have been able to enrol in study thanks to this initiative.”

“It demonstrates an unparalleled commitment to skills development and will ensure all South Australians can participate in the incredible new and exciting employment opportunities that are emerging in South Australia.”

For course and application information, please call TAFE SA on 1800 882 661 or go to the website www.tafesa.edu.au