From next year, high school students will have the opportunity to enrol in a new events course by TAFE as part of their HSC.

Offered virtually, the Events and Virtual Experiences course will enable students to develop in-demand skills for the events industry.

With the events industry constantly evolving as a result of the pandemic, there is a growing need for events professionals with diverse skills in delivering live, virtual, and hybrid experiences.

With the rise of virtual and hybrid events driven by COVID-19, Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said employers are increasingly demanding workers possess skills beyond organising a traditional event.

“Employers now require talent who also produce and direct video content, grasp the pros and cons of different technical platforms, and know how to moderate online discussions in virtual experiences, Mr. Lee said.

Part of TAFE’s virtual Schools Launchpad program, the new course will see students graduate high school with the foundational skills required to work in the industry.

“Graduating students will have a step-up in the job market for roles such as Events Assistant, Event Coordinator, or Production Assistant – which are needed to support business events, exhibitions, festivals, community, or sporting events across all sectors.”

By studying this course as part of their HSC, TAFE NSW head of tourism and experience services skills team Elizabeth Smith said students can fast-track their career by gaining a nationally recognised qualification that employers want, while still at school.

“Students will gain pivotal skills to deliver events, and they’ll also learn how to produce content for virtual events, along with essential skills in communication, time management, and customer service,” Ms. Smith said.