Information for parents and advisors
Most careers need some form of education and training, but they don't all require a university degree. There are a variety of reasons your child or students should consider vocational education and training (VET) after school. Perhaps they want to enter a trade, test out an industry, or maybe they just didn't get the ATAR they needed to enter university.
What is vocational education and training?
Designed to deliver practical, workplace-specific skills and knowledge, VET covers a wide range of careers and industries. If you find that your child or student struggles in a traditional classroom, or if they're more of a tactile learner, VET may be where they will really shine. Completing a VET course can help improve not only their skills and knowledge, but also their confidence. They can gain a qualification, start working sooner, improve their career or job opportunities, and advance to further study or university.
About TAFE Queensland
With more than 500 nationally-recognised qualifications to choose from, studying at TAFE Queensland gives our students access to multiple pathways to get a head start on their careers.
How we can help
Course diversity
TAFE Queensland offers more than 500 nationally-recognised qualifications from entry-level to higher education. If you have a child or student interested in anything from a trade to hospitality and events, or creative industries to health care and nursing, chances are we have a course for them.
Search coursesIndustry-standard facilities
Our students train in purpose-built facilities including industry-standard workshops, fully functional health clinics, digital studios, and open to the public restaurants, beauty salons, and gyms. Our partnerships with local employers also allow students to also study in real workplaces and gain valuable work experience.
View our facilitiesSupport services
Our student support services are available to all of our students, making their learning experience just that little bit easier. Our range of services across the state include counselling, disability services, learning support, library services, and Indigenous student support.
Learn moreFlexible study options
With more than 500 nationally-recognised qualifications to choose from across 50 locations throughout the state, and a variety of study modes available, your child or students are able to study in a way that suits them.
Learn moreUnderstanding ATAR
The Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) is the national standard for tertiary admissions. It indicates position relative to other students, is calculated by the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) and is used for entry to tertiary study. Completing a Certificate III or higher through TAFE at School contributes to ATARs.
Learn moreUniversity pathways
We have partnered with some of Australia’s most respected universities to deliver world-class degrees in a practical, job-focused training environment. Together we provide the up-to-date skills employers want, along with the adaptable thinking required to succeed in any industry.
Learn moreImportant information
Explore our study areas
Take a look at everything we have on offer by the area of study that interests you the most. Choose from over 400 entry-level certificates to degree-level courses across a wide variety of industries. Whatever your interest, we know you’ll find a pathway to your dream career.
- Business and IT
- Creative industries
- Education and community
- Environment and animal services
- Health and science
- Infrastructure and transport
- Service industries
- Trades
Eligible year 10, 11 or 12 students can participate in our TAFE at School program. Successfully completing a TAFE at School qualification gives students QCE credit points and direct entry into any TAFE Queensland diploma course, so their future is set before they even finish Year 12.
High school students can get a head start on a trade career by completing a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship, or a pre-apprenticeship course. Pre-apprenticeship courses are a great way for students to get a taste of a trade area without needing an employer.
Choosing a post-school education provider is a big decision for a teenager. TAFE Queensland offers courses from entry-level certificates through to diplomas and bachelor degrees, so no matter where they want to take their career, we have a study option to get them there.
TAFE at School online solutions | Powered by IVET
The new and dynamic IVET platform for schools is designed to increase student engagement and reduce teacher marking time. The flexible delivery options will make further study more accessible to students across Queensland.