A pair of registered training organisations (RTOs) has banded together to offer opportunities for Port Stephens people of all abilities seeking to re-enter the workforce.
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Hunter-based Transformational Institute (TI) has partnered with the Raymond Terrace office of Ability Options in establishing two highly sought-after training courses starting next week.
The courses on offer are a Certificate III in individual support disability (career entry point) to commence on October 23 and a Certificate II in horticulture to begin on October 25.
The disability support course will run for 14 weeks, while the horticulture course covers 12-weeks. Both are being conducted weekly from 9.30am to 4.30pm at the Ability Options office in William Street, Raymond Terrace.
TI's business strategist Gayle Hamilton said that while there was a small fee for students, funding options were available to the long-term unemployed, people with a medically diagnosed disability and to indigenous people. "The courses are also being partly funded by the NSW government's Smart & Skilled program."
"We have found there is a strong demand for skilled workers in these two fields and the employment opportunities within Port Stephens are wide and varied," Ms Hamilton said.
"The individual support course allows graduates to work in a community and/or residential setting providing person-centred support to the aged and disabled, while a qualification in horticulture would link graduates into careers in areas of parks and gardens [including local councils], golf and bowls clubs, just to name a few.
"And while there is no guarantee of a job at the conclusion of the courses, we have a long list of employers and we are in the fortunate position where many of these employers are constantly coming to us seeking staff."
Ability Options business manager Catherine Knight said that Port Stephens had been identified as an area in need of employment training for disadvantaged people and people witha disability.
"We are looking to expand our programs and services in Port Stephens and we are delighted to be partnering with Transformational Institute at Raymond Terrace. Both these fields have been identified as being in-demand and we encourage all people, including those with lived experience, to apply."
The not-for-profit organisation can help students improve their skills, create a job plan that will focus on strengths and abilities, and assist people to learn new ones. They also assist potential employers to identify any adjustments required to succeed in the workplace.
Places are still available, to apply contact TI business coordinator Ross Chittenden on 0400 271512.