Bendigo TAFE helped this local turn study into a job – and new research shows she’s not alone

After years in retail and factory roles, Nicole Atherton returned to study at Bendigo TAFE, determined to build a new career in healthcare.

Through TAFE, she gained the skills, confidence and a qualification that helped her secure work at a local hospital – her first role in the health sector and an outcome she once thought was out of reach.

Her experience reflects a broader trend. The recent Employment Outcomes for Victorian TAFE Learners report by Nous Group found 9 in 10 Victorian TAFE students secured a job or promotion as a direct result of their studies.

Learners in regional Victoria recording particularly strong outcomes, including in the health sector where 363,000 new workers are expected by 2035.

From factory floors to healthcare

Living in Epsom, Bendigo, Nicole left school in Year 10 and spent much of her working life outside formal training. After caring for both parents before they passed away, she felt drawn to supporting others at the most difficult times of life.

Despite managing chronic illness, the 53-year-old enrolled in Bendigo TAFE’s Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability), seeing TAFE as the pathway that made learning – and a career change – achievable.

“I really wanted to learn and do it – TAFE was the pathway that allowed me to do that,” she said.

Inspired by her lived experience, Nicole hopes to eventually work as a palliative care nurse.

“I want to be there for people for the hardest part of life. I wanted to be a better nurse and be there for the clinical side of things,” she said.

Free TAFE made it possible

Studying under Free TAFE was critical for Nicole as a mature‑age learner, allowing her to fully commit to her studies.

“It made a big difference financially, especially later in life. It is a great, great initiative,” she said.

Job outcomes and confidence

In January, Nicole secured a role at a local hospital, moving into environmental, food services and patient‑facing duties – stepping stones toward her long‑term nursing goal.

“I got the job on the spot. My training at TAFE helped make integration easier, I already had a lot of the knowledge. It’s been life changing,” she said.

She credits TAFE with building confidence, practical skills and digital capability – including support with technology and resume writing.

“I thought the door was closed at my age. But TAFE makes it so much easier. Teachers inspire you to keep going, even when you’re struggling. Now I’m living the dream,” she said.

Proud, capable and looking ahead

Now nearing completion of her qualification, Nicole is looking forward to progressing into a new role in health services assistance at her current workplace.

She is also enrolled to begin the Diploma of Nursing in July – another Free TAFE course at Bendigo TAFE.

“I’m proud of where I am now and I’m excited for the future. You’re never too old to learn,” Nicole said.

Helping locals transition into in-demand jobs

Bendigo TAFE’s health courses are delivered at its Health and Community Centre of Excellence at City Campus. Designed to prepare students for in‑demand roles across healthcare and community support industries.

Courses like the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) and Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) support pathways into roles from personal care worker to enrolled nurse.