C.Y. O’Connor College of TAFE

1. Overview

With approximately 4.000 students C.Y. O’Connor College of TAFE is the largest provider of education and training in the Wheatbelt and the Lower Mid West Coastal regions of Western Australia. A strong connection with the local economy ensures practical experiences during the education. The extensive use of modern technology enables the TAFE to overcome the great distances of this remote and scarcely populated area.

2. Location

Despite its relative proximity to Perth this region has a rather rural character. Often referred to as the Wheatbelt of Western Australia the area is ruled by the agricultural sector. Soft hills with fields of grain stretch all the way to the picturesque coastline. The climate is pleasant with warm to hot summers and mild winters.

3. Campuses

C.Y. O’Connor College of TAFE’s four main campuses are found in the towns of Northam, Narrogin, Merredin and Moora. As the biggest of these Northam marks the primary facility of this TAFE. Focussing on the requirements of the local primary industry, Northam features courses Aquaculture, Horticulture, Pig Production and Grain Production. Far from being one-dimensional, the Notham campus also excels in the field of Business and Information Technology. A fully equipped simulated Business Office Unit guarantees a realistic work atmosphere on campus.

Though smaller in size the other campuses are just as well equipped, with computer labs, video conference facilities and extensive workshop facilities.
A newly installes VOIP systems enables the four campuses to communicate with each other more easily.
 
4. Main Program Areas

C.Y. O’Connor College of TAFE offers its students a wide range of courses. The Main Program Areas include:
o Agriculture
o Automotive
o Arts
o Building & Construction
o Business & Management
o Clothing Production
o Community Services
o Computing & IT
o Conservation & Land Management
o Employment Skills
o Engineering
o Furniture Production
o General Education
o Health 
o Horticulture
o Hospitality & Tourism
o Local Government
o Music
o Retail
o Rural Operations
o Training Education

5. Entry Requirements

These may vary from course to course. In general, it is necessary to provide a school education that is the equivalent to the Australian years 10-12 with passes in English.

Furthermore, enrolment at TAFE WA requires a minimum level of English language skills (equivalent of IELTS academic version min. of 5.5).

6. Student Activities

With its great weather and beautiful beaches, e.g. Jurien Bay, the Wheatbelt and the Lower Mid West Coastal regions of Western Australia invite to swim, surf or sail. As ususal in Western Australia you will not have to travel long to find yourself in the breathtaking and romantic outback. The possibilities for camping and adventure seem endless.

Should the area become too remote after a while, there is always the opportunity to take a short trip to the bustling City of Perth
   
7. Application

Sounds like your cob of corn? The friendly people at AA education will be more than happy to provide information and assist you on your way to C.Y. O’Connor College of TAFE. Just email us to receive the application form and help with the usual administrative hurdles.