TAFE NSW will host its first ever virtual open day next week to showcase what it has got to offer this year's HSC students before they embark on their final exams.
The virtual event will take place September 9 and 10 and is open to students and their families.
TAFE NSW regional general manager Vicky Mazzeo said school leavers and their guardians would have unprecedented access to teachers from 60 course areas available to study across the state.
They will also have a chance to virtually tour the state-of-the-art facilities on offer at TAFE.
"The innovative virtual format of this event means that anyone who is considering their career options doesn't need to travel to explore absolutely every opportunity available to them at TAFE NSW," she said.
"COVID-19 has undoubtedly presented challenges for the class of 2020 and I want to reassure school leavers that the pandemic isn't an obstacle to getting the skills they need to pursue the career of their dreams.
"TAFE NSW is leading the vocational education sector by ensuring that all students continue to have access to training and information in a COVID-safe environment."
Visitors to the event can connect one-on-one with teachers, take 360-degree tours of facilities, observe practical demonstrations and access student support service and scholarship information in a virtual exhibition hall.
With 250,000 school leavers about to be thrust into a shrinking job market where the NSW unemployment rate is 6.9 per cent, it is thought there will be fewer opportunities for unskilled jobs or apprenticeships.
But Ms Mazzeo said it was not all bad news, with accountants, call centre operators, administration assistants, marketing specialists and software programmers forecast to be in demand over the next 12 months.
She said now was the time to consider the qualifications required to pursue employment opportunities in these fields.
"TAFE NSW graduates are in high demand because of the quality of their education and ability to hit the ground running with the job-ready skills that employers are looking for," Ms Mazzeo said.
For further information and to register to attend the TAFE NSW Virtual Open Day click here.
