Federation University TAFE executive director Barry Wright said the tertiary education provider was confident there would be a significant rise in enrollments in the state government-deemed high priority courses.

Mr Wright said interest in FedUni TAFE courses had been strong with almost 4000 enquiries, well-above usual figures, since September with a spike after the November state election.

But it would be within the next month that FedUni can officially gauge how much interest translates into enrollments. Most classes are set to start in a fortnight’s time.

FedUni’s increasing plumbing numbers build on strong enrollments last year for the course. 

The diploma of nursing, certificates in disability and community services, and pre-apprenticeship trade courses are also shaping up for solid enrollment numbers at FedUni TAFE.

“This shows there is an active marketplace (for plumbing) in Ballarat and employers are prepared to put apprentices on,” Mr Wright said. 

“As far as interest in our courses, we reflect the rest of the state – very, very strong and enquiry rates are well and truly above where they normally are.”

See what’s on offer at FedUni TAFE below, 

Early state-wide data shows a three-fold increase in student numbers in now-free courses compared to last year.

The top five courses for January starts are: diploma of nursing; certificate II in plumbing (pre-apprenticeship); certificate IV in accounting and bookkeeping; certificate IV in disability; and, certificate III in individual support.

About 3000 Victorians have already taken up a free TAFE opportunity, according to the Andrews Government this week.

Free TAFE for priority courses is a state government program that will pay your tuition fees to study in selected courses – in high demand from Victorian employers – for eligible Victorian students.

More details, visit TAFE Victoria

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