Chisholm helps carpenter build a new career in teaching

Chisholm is offering you a special chance to become a TAFE teacher through the Quality TAFE Teacher program. Those who are accepted will become a Chisholm employee and will receive support to complete their Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122). The Quality TAFE Teacher program accelerates your studies during your employment to prepare you to teach at Chisholm.

Qualified carpenter Adam Laxton decided it was time for something new. With 15 years’ experience in the trade, including running his own business, Adam decided to explore TAFE teaching. “I loved the trade but was fed up with chasing money and working the long hours,” Adam said. “A friend of mine said I should look into TAFE teaching. I’d trained apprentices on site before but never seriously thought about teaching. I had an opportunity to have a go at teaching a few classes and really liked it.”

After completing his TAE, Adam landed a full-time teaching role at Chisholm Institute of TAFE. Adam has progressed from teacher to program co-ordinator and is now Chisholm’s manager for building and construction. “Becoming a TAFE teacher offered me a good work/life balance and the satisfaction of training and mentoring these upcoming trades people.”

Adam’s journey is not so different to other tradies turned teacher. Some opt to change careers after suffering ongoing injuries, while others want to free up time to spend with their families. If you’re a qualified tradie, your skills and unique perspective could be invaluable for student learning.

You can learn more about the Quality TAFE Teacher program starting in January, salary expectations and job opportunities at www.chisholm.edu.au/qtt and complete an expression of interest.