17 February 2009
Calling all women – your future starts NOW!
Leanndra Lockyer.
Pilbara TAFE is calling for participants in the 2009 New Opportunities for Women (NOW) program.
Lecturer Lindy Chan says the program is a great starter point for indigenous women who are interested in gaining new skills for the workforce, such as computer training and job interview techniques, as well learning how to improve their reading and writing. It’s also a strong confidence booster for women returning to the workforce after being full-time mums.
“NOW courses are effective because we customise the training,” explains Lindy. “We focus on project work so you gain hands-on skills and make sure that all the lessons are tailored to your ability.”
“For example, while you’re building up your skills in digital photography, you’ll also improve your writing skills by explaining in a project what you’ve just photographed.”
“It’s the same for computers; the classes focus on basic computing skills, but you’ll improve in a range of other areas too without even realising it, such as communication and workplace organisation.”
Leanndra Lockyer is proof that the course delivers real results.
She finished a NOW course last year and says she really appreciated learning in a fun and supportive environment with other Indigenous women.
“I’ve always wanted to be a child care worker, but I was worried I didn’t have the skills to make it happen,” says Leanndra.
“This course gave me the confidence to know I can study and achieve what I want.”
“It’s also a really enjoyable way of learning and everyone helps each other.”
Leanndra not only completed her course with flying colours, she also won a scholarship to study a Certificate III in Child Care this year at Pilbara TAFE.
Lindy agrees that Leanndra is destined for a great career.
“She’s a role model for other indigenous women who are lacking the confidence to come to TAFE. Leanndra’s a great example of what you can achieve if you believe in yourself.”
The NOW course is supported by Job Link and Job Futures and is aimed at Indigenous women who want to meet new people, learn new skills and boost their self-esteem.
For more information, call Pilbara TAFE on 1300 304 244.
Media Contact: Kate Duff, Marketing & Communications
(08) 9159 6712
Kate.duff@pilbaratafe.wa.edu.au