No takers for subsidised courses

– Melissa Meehan
“DISENGAGED youth” have failed to grab the opportunity to enrol for heavily discounted but job-oriented courses.
Ascet TAFE communications officer Kate Anderson said only six have enrolled out of the 20 places offered for Certificate II in Hospitality (Kitchen Operations) have been filled up, despite the course being advertised since February.
Along with the Victorian Government TAFE was offering the course in five weeks at the Dandenong Basketball Stadium for just $55.
“This course would normally cost $1800, but with government funding we are able to offer it for $55,” Ms Anderson said.
“So it’s disappointing to have so few applications.”
“It’s only for three days a week for five weeks, and those who take part will be able to go out into the workforce with qualifications,” Ms Anderson said.
“We want to give disengaged youths; those who are not in school or working, the opportunity to get into the workforce,” she said.
She said the six who have signed up for the course did so with their parents’ support, and called on other parents to help their kids see the course as a step in the right direction.
Enrolments for the course close at 3pm on Friday 31 October.
School leavers, between the ages of 15 and 19 years, who are currently not working or training are eligible to apply and could contact Emily Andrews on 9660 8904 or email Emily@ascet.com.au for details.