The advantage of learning a trade
TAFE is a better option and is more financially viable than university for many school-leavers, writes Desiree D'Costa.
While thousands of students were vying for final university places, many recognised the benefits of vocational training. The number of students enrolling in traditional apprenticeships, such as chefs and mechanics, has increased by nine per cent since 2005. Students who went on to complete their trade qualification also increased by five per cent -- a total of 142 400 students.
Managing director for the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, Tom Karmel said trade qualifications were a good start for many people. "There is a huge advantage to getting paid while you study and I think that is attractive to many people tossing up between going to TAFE or university,'' Mr Karmel said.
"With the skills shortage affecting many of the trade industries, there is more chance you will find fast employment in one of those fields. "Trade skills give people more options when entering the workforce and sets you up for many other jobs within the industry.''
Mr Karmel said both vocational training and a university education had advantages and disadvantages. "In the end each person has to weigh up what benefits them best and what they want to do,'' he said. "If you're not happy in a job, you won't stay there long and you won't do well in it.
"There is no point in wasting years doing a course that you don't love, it's important to think carefully before making this major decision. "If you want to be an accountant then obviously going to university is the best and fastest way of getting your qualification.
"However, for those who can't get into university there are also indirect ways, through TAFE, that can get you there.''
According to nation-wide figures, 30 per cent of high school-leavers go to university. "The number of students in vocational study far outweighs those going to university,'' Mr Karmel said. "That figure keeps increasing as people recognise the benefits of vocational training.'' First-year apprentice Andrew Tahan said working in his chosen industry provided him with a hands-on education.
The 21-year-old is completing his four-year qualification in hairdressing at Pierre Haddad Hair Management in Sydney. "I'm learning all the areas of hair dressing and of running a business,'' Mr Tahan said.
"I think TAFE is a much better option unless your job requires you to go to university, like an accountant or something. "I think parents put a lot of pressure on their kids to go to university but it's not always the best choice and people just tend to think that university is best.''
Mr Karmel said people interested in becoming self employed should start with a trade qualification. "TAFE offers students a foundation for learning how to run a business,'' he said.
"Many apprentices go on to own their own business. "Hairdressers are a great example, many get trained not just to cut hair but to run the business.''
By Desiree D'Costa, The Sunday Telegraph, February 4, 2007.
