A free TAFE NSW introductory course offering a pathway to work as a school learning support officer or teacher’s aide. Delivered at Berala Community Centre across morning sessions, ideal for adults retraining or returning to work.
Thursday 5 February 2026
to Thursday 2 April 2026
9:30am - 1:30pm
98-104 Woodburn Rd, Berala NSW 2141, Australia
Free
This TAFE NSW introduction to school-based education support is a practical, government-subsidised training designed for adults exploring a career as a teacher’s aide or school learning support officer. It’s written with busy parents in mind who want a clear pathway into school-based roles and hands-on skills that transfer to classrooms.
You’ll spend several mornings in a friendly, classroom-style environment learning the basics of school-based education support, classroom assistance and student wellbeing. The tone is practical and supportive, aimed at adults who want realistic, job-ready skills alongside career pathway advice and training benefits.
- Introduction to the role of a school learning support officer and teacher’s aide
- Basic classroom support techniques, communication with students and staff
- Career pathway information and next steps to further study or employment
The sessions are interactive and suitable for people new to the sector, including parents considering a return to work or a career change. Expect an approachable trainer from TAFE NSW, small group activities and clear next-step guidance for employment or further training.
This course runs from 2026-02-05 to 2026-04-02 with morning sessions each listed day. Sessions are scheduled 09:30 to 13:30 to fit around family routines while offering a substantive block of training each day.
Requirements and what to bring include:
- Participants must be unemployed, Australian residents, aged 18 years or over, and eligible to study in Australia
- Comfortable clothing, enclosed shoes and a water bottle
- A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is required; see https://www.usi.gov.au/
The class is delivered by TAFE NSW and supported by Cumberland City Council and is ideal for parents who want practical skills, an accredited course ID (CSO5555-V03) and a clear, supported pathway into education support roles.
The training takes place at Berala Community Centre, 98-104 Woodburn Road, Berala. The venue is a familiar local community centre with easy street access and community-focused facilities, chosen for convenience to families across Cumberland.
Public transport and parking notes are as follows:
- Berala is accessible by local buses and nearby train stations; consider local transit routes if you’re coming from surrounding suburbs
- On-site or nearby street parking is typically available; arrive a little early to secure a space
If you have accessibility needs or questions about getting to the venue, contact the organiser in advance so they can help. This makes attending easier for parents juggling drop-offs and pick-ups around school times.
Eligibility is essential: participants must be unemployed, Australian residents, aged 18+ and eligible to study in Australia. The course is fully government subsidised for eligible students and places are limited, so make sure your eligibility is confirmed before registering.
A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is mandatory to participate. Please obtain your USI before the first session via the official USI website. Trainers will request your USI during enrolment to ensure your training records are correctly issued.
Wear comfortable clothing and enclosed shoes for practical activities and bring a water bottle. If you have health considerations or require reasonable adjustments, notify organisers early so they can support your needs during training.
Cost: Free. This is a fully government-subsidised student training program (Course ID: CSO5555-V03), making it an affordable pathway into school-based education support careers for eligible adults.
Bookings: Registrations are now open. Face-to-face registrations can be made at Auburn Centre for Community, Berala Community Centre and Guildford Community Centre between 09:00 and 16:00. After registration you will be contacted by both TAFE NSW and Cumberland City Council to confirm your spot.
For questions or help with enrolment, call 8757 9000 or email council@cumberland.nsw.gov.au. Be ready to provide proof of eligibility and your USI when asked during enrolment.
