Ipswich Tertiary taster targets students with disabilities

Prospective students with disabilities in the Ipswich area will be able to get a feel for university and TAFE under an innovative program being offered by the city's leading tertiary institutions.

The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Springfield campus, the University of Queensland Ipswich campus and The Bremer Institute of TAFE Bundamba and Springfield campuses will present a two-day information program aimed at non school leavers and senior school students considering higher education studies.

USQ Student Support Officer Rhonda Watson said the two-day course would give prospective students information about the support services available for people with a disability.

'We know that many people with disabilities feel daunted at the prospect of attending university or TAFE, particularly in regard to the enrolment process and campus services and facilities once they get here,' Ms Watson said.

'The program aims to demystify university life and will cover everything from alternative pathways to tertiary education to career planning and disability resources at the various campuses.

'We'll provide information about study programs, including a session on financial assistance and establishing personal support networks.

'Parents or caregivers are also encouraged to attend so they can understand what happens at university or TAFE, what services are available to help, and how they can support their students to succeed.'

The three institutions are keen to encourage more students with disabilities to join their student populations. Ms Watson said the program was specifically aimed at people who had strong interest in furthering their education at a Certificate III level or above.

For more information on the Tertiary Taste Program contact USQ's Rhonda Watson on 3470 4400 or email: watson@usq.edu.au

Program Details of the Tertiary Taste Program are:

Non School Leavers

Day One

When:    Monday 11 August – 8.30am – 2.45pm
Where:  The Bremer Institute of TAFE (Bundamba Campus)

Day Two

When:    Tuesday 12 August – 8.30am – 3pm
Where:   Morning session at UQ Ipswich campus &
               Afternoon Session USQ &  Bremer Institute of TAFE (Springfield campus)

School Leavers

Day One

When:    Wednesday 30 July – 8.30am to 2.40pm
Where:   USQ and Bremer Institute of TAFE (Springfield campus)

Day Two

When:    Thursday 31 July – 8.30am to 2.30pm
Where:   Morning Session at UQ Ipswich campus &
               Afternoon Session at The Bremer Institute of TAFE (Bundamba campus)

Media Contact: Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, + 61 7 3470 4119