Advertising feature
TAFE delivers strong outcomes for senior students with a program already proving it has hit the mark.
The year 11 and 12 Senior College located at TAFE Queensland Alexandra Hills campus is making a real difference to student outcomes across Redlands and greater Brisbane.
College director Jackie Smollet believes education is more than just what we teach; it's about how we teach.
"While traditional classroom environment successfully educate many students, there are still those who fall through the cracks," she said.
"There's no 'one size fits all' solution when it comes to education and the College is changing lives for many young people who may not necessarily fit into traditional school structures."
Alternative models of education such as the senior college program, which focus on forging relationships with mentors and vocational training appeal to students who struggle in a traditional classroom setting and gives them the option to complete their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) or gain an Adult Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
Like traditional high school, the senior college program takes two years to complete. There are two intakes for year 11 in July and then again for year 11 and 12 January 2020.
"TAFE Queensland Senior College Graduate Shelly Grant said "I have previously tried private school, public school and flexi-school, but it just wasn't working for me. The stress became too much so I ended up dropping out of high school."
It was at the local employment agency that Shelly found out about Senior College where the career counselor advised the importance of completing high school and that Senior College's flexible and supportive adult learning environment could be a good fit.
This advertising feature has been sponsored by the following business;
"Enrolling into Senior College was a life changing decision," Shelly said.
"The supportive environment at Senior College was just amazing. The teachers never gave up on me during the two years of study. They were always there for me to support me both academically but also emotionally.
"Over time, my mental health changed and I was finally in a good place where I wanted to learn."
Since graduating in 2018, Shelly has continued her studies with TAFE Queensland, currently completing a Diploma of Nursing.
"Growing up it was always my dream to help those in need. What seemed like an impossible dream just a few years ago is now a reality. I am about to go to do placement at a private hospital next semester and I am so excited."
Ms Smollet said Shelly's story is not an isolated one and many students have flourished under the Senior College's flexible delivery system.
For more information about TAFE Queensland's Senior College at Alexandra Hills call 1300 308 233 or visit www.tafeqld.edu.au.
