TAFE at School students take home WorldSkills Tourism Gold and Silver

Competing against peers from across the region, the students demonstrated their industry knowledge and sales expertise in tourism-related challenges.

North Pine Christian College student Joshua Darcy took home the Gold medal, with Canterbury College’s student Larissa White securing the Silver.

Both students are studying a Certificate II in Tourism (SIT20122) through TAFE Queensland as part of the TAFE at School program, with aspirations to work in the events and travel industries.

TAFE at School allows high school students to gain nationally recognised qualifications across various industries, including sport, hospitality, health, community services, engineering and agriculture, with TAFE Queensland before they finish school.

The program fits in with students existing high school studies, replacing one of their senior schooling subjects, which also contributes to their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

This entry-level course equips students with essential skills for roles in tourism, from travel agencies to museums and tour operators. It provides a solid foundation for further tourism, business, or events studies to boost career prospects.

Students gain practical experience in using business technology, providing visitor information, and advising on Australian destinations, all while learning cultural sensitivity.

With guidance from experienced industry professionals, students are supported every step of the way to start their careers in this dynamic field.

“We were offered to prepare and compete at the Queensland Regional WorldSkills Competition during one of our classes, and it seemed like a fun idea to gain connection through the industry, so we went ahead with it,” explained Josh.

After rigorous training, Joshua and Larissa competed in a full day of competition, excelling in tasks that required them to provide advice on Australian destinations, sell tourism products, and navigate industry-specific online information systems.

"The tasks we were challenged with were about booking, being in connection with clients, and just working on the theory and being prepared for what that would include," continued Josh.

" The assignments we did on the day were challenging, and it was stressful doing it in front of judges from the industry, but it was relieving by the end," he said.

His sentiment was echoed by Larissa, who found the experience of preparing and competing at WorldSkills excellent.

"WorldSkills was a great opportunity, especially meeting the judges because they’re major players in the travel industry, so it was a good chance to network," said Larissa.

"While challenging, I felt prepared thanks to my studies. Getting silver was a great feeling and so rewarding after all the workshops we did."

Both students are thriving in TAFE Queensland’s adult learning environment, with the course focussing on developing their skills in an industry they’re passionate about.

"TAFE is a perfect learning environment, and getting to know new like-minded people is a massive plus. Our teacher, Stacey Garbutt, is so cool to work with, too; she brings a lot of industry knowledge and connection to the class," she explained.

The students' World Skills Coach, Cheryleigh Lazarus, praised Joshua and Larissa for their professionalism and enthusiasm.

“We’re so pleased to be working with WorldSkills Australia to provide our students with a platform to showcase and benchmark their skills,” Cheryleigh said.

"The quality of their work was outstanding. They demonstrated the skills needed to thrive in the tourism industry, and choosing the winners was a tough decision for the judges," she concluded.