AS 2026 approaches, students across regional Victoria are making one of the biggest decisions of their lives: what comes next after school?
GOTAFE provides a local, trusted option for further education and TAFE graduates have a great track record of achievement.
Research completed in 2024 for the TAFE Value and Perception Challenge Report shows TAFE graduates achieve employment and career outcomes comparable to university graduates, while also benefitting from practical training, industry connections and job-ready skills.
The report also highlights strong pathways into immediate employment and further study.
With applications closing soon, GOTAFE is encouraging future school leavers to look local and take the next step toward a career that truly fits.
For many students, a visit to GOTAFE is often the moment everything “clicks.”
Early childhood graduate Matilda Jolly said a high school tour of GOTAFE helped her choose a pathway.
“In Year 11 my school did a tour of GOTAFE, and we went to the early childhood room. I was like, this is something I really want to do in the future,” she said.
With support from staff, Matilda began her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) while still in school, juggling classes, online study and a traineeship.
“It was a bit busy, but I managed it because the trainers are super supportive,” she said.
“I studied online at my own pace, and my trainer was always available when I needed her.
“The flexibility worked really well for me.”
Matilda is now working full-time in a local kindergarten and is considering further study at GOTAFE.
GOTAFE’s 2026 Semester 1 intake offers courses across in-demand industries including health, trades, agriculture, business, early childhood, hair and beauty, IT and creative industries.
With campuses across Benalla, Seymour, Shepparton and Wangaratta, students can stay close to home while accessing hands-on learning, industry placements and pathways into employment or further study.
With GOTAFE by your side, YOU’VE GOT THIS. Visit www.gotafe.vic.edu.au or call 1300 GOTAFE (468 233).
