As school graduates start to receive their Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks (ATAR) it is important to remember there are more pathways than high school to university.
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Oliver Shepherd, from Albury on the NSW-Victorian border, is one example, completing his high school studies through TAFE NSW.
After watching two of his sisters complete their high school studies through the TAFE NSW Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (TPC) and successfully go on to university and a traineeship, Oliver decided to take the same course.
The TPC is a nationally accredited qualification offering a Tertiary Entrance Score, an ATAR equivalent, recognised by educators and employers as an alternative pathway to further study.
"I was going through school and didn't feel like it was for me. I was doing quite well but didn't feel like it was the best option at the time," Oliver said.
"I have an interest in business studies and marketing, so I want the option to go to uni or study more TAFE courses. I knew I could get my ATAR equivalent through TAFE NSW.
"I enjoy the adult learning environment at TAFE NSW. During my first week, the teachers took the time to explain to students what to expect from the course so I could plan for how I was going to balance study, part-time work and achieving my goals.
"I also like that the teachers suggest other courses that line up with my interest and career plans."
Oliver's plans to complete further study is backed up by a report by the National Skills Commission.
The report found people with post-school qualifications generally have better employment outcomes than those who have not completed further education after leaving school.
In 2019, the median weekly earnings for an employee with a Certificate III or IV was $1150 while the medium weekly earnings for an employee with no post-school qualification was $820.
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TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Career Pathways Ros Bauer said Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation is for people who want to finish their high school studies, gain entry to a career of choice or secure a better ATAR equivalent to study for a degree.
"The TPC is also useful for people looking for a career change, particularly those wanting to move from a vocational job into a profession. The course builds confidence and technological skills that have been identified as essential for emerging careers of the future.
"The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation is a real head start for anyone considering further study.
"It's one year that sets graduates up with a great educational foundation for the rest of their lives and provides the academic skills to progress into further education," Ms Bauer said.
