Nowra automotive service centre MotAtec have presented a car engine, a gearbox, turbo and other parts to TAFE NSW Nowra’s automotive facility.

The engine will be used by students enrolled in school-based training, known as TAFE NSW delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

TAFE NSW Nowra Automotive head teacher Nathan Malmborg thanked MotAtec for the engine and parts.

“This is a very kind donation and we appreciate it,” Mr Malmborg said.

“While we have a range of engines and other components for our students to gain skills and experience on, this donation will be used as an additional teaching tool to demonstrate how each component works.”

While delivering the engine, MotAtec automotive technician Allan Byrne said he was keen to give something back to the automotive section.

He suggested the idea to MotAtec directors Greg Lynch and James Clarke who were immediately supportive.

“We see it as our way of supporting TAFE and the future Shoalhaven mechanics and tradespeople,” Mr Lynch said

They have also challenged other local automotive firms to contact TAFE NSW Nowra with offers of equipment students might be able to use.

Every Thursday, Year 11 and 12 TVET students from high schools in the Shoalhaven attend TAFE NSW Nowra to study a variety of subjects.

By completing Certificate II in Vocational Automotive the students can gain unit credits toward their HSC.

“TVET subjects are a great way for school students to decide whether a mechanical career is for them,” Mr Malmborg said.

“The study they complete in automotive at TAFE NSW will result in credit towards a Certificate III qualification in an automotive apprenticeship. That means they could take six months of their apprenticeship.”

“The successful completion of a TVET subject could mean reducing an apprenticeship, or even a degree, by a considerable amount of time. That means students are in the workforce sooner.”

Mr Malmborg said the automotive TVET course introduced students to a variety of mechanical-based careers.

“There’s career opportunities in heavy vehicles, mining machinery, motorcycles and in the marine industry,” Mr Malmborg said.

“It can also be an avenue to an apprenticeship. Employers who are looking to put on an apprentice are more likely to target students who have TVET qualifications. These students come to the industry with some skills and experience, which is appealing to an employer.”

Jesse Bell, a year 11 student at Bomaderry High school, enrolled in the Certificate II in Vocational Automotive this year.

He said his time at TAFE NSW Nowra had already given him new skills and some direction for his working-future

“I’ve learned a lot about how engines work, how to test and check them for faults,” Mr Bell said.

For more information about automotive or any of the free apprenticeships available at TAFE NSW visit tafensw.edu.au.