$1 million for Swinburne to boost learning support
In Summary
- $1 million to support disadvantaged students
- Funding part of the TAFE Back to Work Fund
- Three vital programs receive support
Swinburne has secured $1 million from the Victorian Government to help disadvantaged students access training and support.
Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert announced the Community Service funding, as part of the TAFE Back to Work Fund.
Executive Director, Pathways and Vocational Education, David Coltman says the funding will boost the employability of disadvantaged and vulnerable sections of the community.
“These funds will support our migrant English, apprenticeship and vocational bridging programs, making sure that these students complete qualifications and get jobs, or access further training.”
Migrant English
Swinburne’s migrant English programs focus on improving skills in reading, writing, mathematics, oral communication and basic computer literacy.
The programs help migrants seek job opportunities, develop work-ready skills, and support them into employment or further study.
Vocational bridging programs
Swinburne’s vocational bridging programs provide an avenue for young people who haven’t had success in education before.
The programs also help members of the community with low literacy and numeracy skills, to access pathways to vocational education and improve their overall employment prospects.
“These programs have been life changing for people who have had poor educational experiences in the past,” Mr Coltman says.
“Swinburne appreciates the acknowledgement from the Victorian Government. As a university we are proud to be defined by who we include, rather than who we exclude. These funds will be well spent and have a huge impact on improving educational outcomes and employment opportunities.”
Swinburne will also use the money to create an online portal and operate Apprenticeship Centres that will allow apprentices at its Wantirna and Croydon campuses to access support to finish their training.
Background
Swinburne offers a range of pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships and trades short courses at its Croydon, Wantirna and Hawthorn campuses.
Launched in 2015, the TAFE Back to Work fund is a $50 million initiative of the Victorian Government that aims to help create 100,000 new jobs in the Victorian economy.