Pilbara TAFE

1. Overview

As the premier supplier of education and training in this large and remote part of Western Australia, Pilbara TAFE services more than 6.000 students every year. With courses held in classrooms as well as in Indigenous communities, this TAFE meets the challenges of vast distances and demographic conditions. Some of the world’s largest open cut mines and enormous oil and gas reserves are found in the Pilbara region and the college has one of its focuses on providing highly skilled workforce to the booming mining industry.
  
2. Location

The Pilbara region covers more than 500.000 square kilometres of mostly arid or semi-arid terrain. Its tropical setting results in just two different meteorological seasons. During the dry period, from April to November, the climate is mostly pleasant with temperatures around the mid 20’s. However, as the wet season approaches temperatures gradually rise up to more than 40°C, accompanied by monsoonal rainfalls and the occasional cyclone. The little town of Marble Bar in the north-western corner of the region is officially recognized as the hottest place In Australia.

While most of the areas population of just over 40.000 can be found in the bigger coastal towns of Karratha, Port Hedland and Dampier, further inland Newman and Tom Price exist almost solely to service the nearby mining operations.
Economically, the Pilbara is one of Australia’s major sources of raw materials like iron ore, oil, natural gas and nickel.
The Aboriginal culture thrives strongly throughout the region, with more than 30 languages spoken in the various communities.  
 
3. Campuses
The main campus of Pilbara TAFE is located in the town of Karratha with state of the art facilities to guarantee a modern and relaxed learning atmosphere. Regional campuses can be found in South Hedland, Roebourne, Newman, Tom Price, Pannawonica, Onslow, Paraburdoo and Jigalong. In addition to these, TAFE-staff often travel long distances to remote Indigenous communities in the Great Sandy Desert or along the Canning Stock Route thus enabling inhabitants of these areas to participate in courses.

4. 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).

5. Student Activities

The spectacular landscape of the Pilbara invites to participate in all sorts of outdoor activities.

The rocky coastline is a paradise for everybody who loves to fish. Further inland stunning National Parks wait for exploration. Of these Karijini National Park near Tom Price has claimed international fame with its spectacular gorges, natural waterfalls and rock pools.   

6. Application

Sounds like your slice of toast? The friendly people at AA education will be more than happy to provide information and assist you on your way to Pilbara TAFE.

Just email us to receive the application form and help with the usual administrative hurdles.