Holmesglen Institute of TAFE
Holmesglen Institute of TAFE
Now, he is a community services support worker who is inspiring young adults with life-changing education and job support.
Tom completed the Free TAFE CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services course, where a compulsory practical placement opportunity started his new career.
“I wanted to give back to the community and have that purpose again,” says Tom of his career change.
Community services workers are employed across healthcare, aged care and housing services, and help clients through case management and support strategies.
Tom says a community services support worker is a rewarding role. His motivation comes from helping young, disadvantaged individuals re-connect with their education and find new job outcomes.
As part of his current role, Tom supports trainees with their assessments and provides classroom assistance.
He draws on skills he learned during his diploma course, including how to develop workplace communication strategies and understand sociological factors.
“Everything I learned at Holmesglen has filtered down. It’s been a great match.”
A CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services course can support graduates looking to work in:
“There are a lot more career opportunities in community services, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Tom. “There are going to be a lot more services for things like mental health.”
The Australian Federal Government’s Job Outlook reflects this sector need. Community, family and welfare support worker roles are all predicted to increase over the next five years.
Community services support workers, like Tom, are empathetic and supportive and work with clients from many backgrounds and individual experiences.
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services helps students build these qualities. It includes units on how to promote diversity, develop professional practice and form a reliable counselling relationship.
Tom says ‘soft skills’ of employment are just as important to his daily work.
“There is always someone out there who has a different experience. Each person sees and handles things differently, depending on their story, background and history. Being a great listener, communicator and having a non-judgmental attitude are important.
Community services support workers, like Tom, are empathetic and supportive and work with clients from many backgrounds and individual experiences.
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services helps students build these qualities. It includes units on how to promote diversity, develop professional practice and form a reliable counselling relationship.
Tom says ‘soft skills’ of employment are just as important to his daily work.
“There is always someone out there who has a different experience. Each person sees and handles things differently, depending on their story, background and history. Being a great listener, communicator and having a non-judgmental attitude are important.
