During Your Start TAFE Now Study Information
Getting Started
By providing guidance and resources, we aim to help students make informed decisions that align with their goals and interests. Whether they're pursuing vocational training or planning further education, the right support can make all the difference in their success.
Additionally, we have provided detailed information below that may assist students throughout their studies. This resource is designed to support students and help navigate any difficulties they may encounter.
Trade Courses
Students enrolled in trades courses only will need to have:
- Cotton drill work wear (long pants and short or long sleeved shirt). Electrotechnology students must wear long sleeve shirts and long pants.
- Safety boots (internal steel caps)
- ear buds (optional)
- Clear safety glasses
- Welding helmet and welding gloves (Engineering students only)
- Cut resistant work safety gloves e.g. MaxiPro or Uvex (Electrotechnology students only)
- Writing materials (pencil, pen, notebook, eraser, ruler)
Cookery Courses
Students enrolled in the Certificate II in Cookery will need to have:
- Student Uniform Kit (Including Jacket, pants, hat, neckerchief, bib apron). Available from Hillers.
Salon Courses
Students enrolled in the Certificate II in Salon Assistant must wear closed in shoes and be dressed as though they are going to work in a salon.
Students will also need to have:
- Stationary, including pens, notebook, etc.
- 12pk sectioning clips
- Two tail combs
- Round brushes (thermal) - 1x18mm, 1x24mm, 1x30mm, 1x42mm (approx measurements)
- Denman styling brush 7 row
- TangleTeezer
- Water spray
- Wide toothed basin comb
- One box of disposable gloves
Students not enrolled in the above mentioned courses should consult with their teacher for clarification regarding resource requirements.
Each student’s schedule will be different for each course. Some of you will have a designated day each school week to be on campus, while others will have the flexibility to choose when to go online and engage with your learning materials. Either way, it’s essential to set and know your schedule so that you are prepared. This includes allocating time for readings, reflection, unit activities, and completing your assessment tasks. However, it’s important to realize that there may be additional workloads to consider when managing your time.
Your STN study schedule will not always align with your schoolwork, as CQUniversity has its own calendar. Learning how to balance these factors and manage your time is critical for your success at university. Chat with your VET school contact to discuss how best to manage your combined VET and school studies.
One of the biggest differences between high school and TAFE/Uni study is that you often need to take the initiative to ask for help. Whether it’s reaching out to our friendly Schools Pathways team about your application, BKSB, enrolment, or completion, consulting your teacher about your learning and assessment, contacting our IT (TaSAC) for any tech issues, or utilising any of our Student Support services, there is always someone available to assist you. You can find a range of our support teams on our support webpage.
Information for parents and schools
Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, these insights will help you navigate the program effectively and make informed decisions about vocational education and training.
We have written agreements with schools that provide third-party services on our behalf. Specific information on partnered schools may be provided by your school VET Coordinator and CQU representative or by making a specific enquiry via email to stn@cqu.edu.au.
We provide a wide range of support services designed to help our students build the personal resilience and skills necessary to achieve their academic and personal goals. Whether you need academic or financial assistance or support for your health and well-being, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Some of our support services include:
To find out more about the various support services go to Student Support.
When undertaking a CQU TAFE course students are participating in adult education based on industry requirements. While school provides a broad education, CQU TAFE teaches specific skills to be job ready. A qualification with CQU TAFE shows employers that the person has the expertise to work at a specific skill level, based on the course completed, and the ability to be a valuable team member.
Developing real world skills at CQU TAFE also equips students with work ready behaviour. This starts on day one of the course. Being on time, attending every class, working well with colleagues, and trying their best will see students in good stead to succeed in the course and be in demand with employers. Like the workforce, if students do not attend consistently, they will be withdrawn from the course. The trigger for this is late or non-attendance for three weeks in a row without agreement between the school and CQU TAFE.
At CQUniversity, we prioritise a safe and respectful learning environment for all our students. Our Start TAFE Now (STN) program encourages students to engage positively in their studies, respect others, and follow university guidelines. We aim to foster an inclusive space where every student can thrive. Misconduct is addressed through a structured process to support students in assessing behaviour while maintaining a collaborative atmosphere. Parents and students are encouraged to review the Start TAFE Now (STN) Student Conduct Policy and Procedure.
Graduates can now access certified transcripts and the testamur for their course through My eQuals. These digital documents can be shared with anyone, including employers, universities and other parties, enabling them to view these online. You'll receive your digital Testamur and Transcript via your student email upon the completion of your course.
Find more details on My eQuals.
VET in Schools (VETiS)
Find out more about the Queensland Government's VET in Schools (VETiS) funding that allows students to study TAFE Qualifications while still in school.
School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SAT)
Find out more information about completing a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship with CQUniversity.
Apprenticeships and Traineeships
Our apprenticeships and traineeships are developed in consultation with industry and involve practical learning experiences.
