Gold Coast SUNS partners with TAFE Queensland

The Gold Coast SUNS have announced TAFE Queensland as its new Official Education Partner.

TAFE Queensland is the largest, most experienced training provider in the state, supporting over 140,000 students across 400+ qualifications at more than 60 locations and through flexible study options to build lifelong careers.

The partnership between the Gold Coast SUNS and TAFE Queensland will see students provided bespoke training and education pathways to build life-long careers whilst also enhancing the SUNS’ community and affiliated club programs.

In collaboration with the two organisations, the Gold Coast College of Sport and Business will continue to deliver its unique Dual Diploma program (Diploma of Sport/Diploma of Leadership and Management), providing students with real-world operational experience at a professional sporting organisation.

Established in 2023, the Gold Coast’s first fully integrated education and sports industry program sees students immersed in day-to-day operations at the Gold Coast SUNS’ administration headquarters and elite training facilities at the Austworld Centre and People First Stadium, providing 100 hours of first-hand experience inside the club.

High-performing graduates may receive opportunities to progress into full-time employment at the Gold Coast SUNS or similar organisations, also benefiting from university articulation pathways with up to one year of credit available toward selected bachelor degrees at Bond University, Griffith University, and QUT.

Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans says the club is delighted to extend upon its existing relationship with TAFE Queensland, which dates back to 2023.

Now as Official Education Partner, the two organisations will have further potential to make positive and lasting impacts in the Gold Coast community.

Evans stated "at the SUNS, we are committed to making a genuine impact in our community and providing opportunities for future generations to thrive, as evidenced by our wide-range of education programs across both school-age and tertiary levels.

“Our partnership with TAFE Queensland will allow the next generation of sports administrators to develop career-building skills, tailored to their individual career aspirations, all in the unique environment of a professional sporting club.”

“The Gold Coast College of Sport and Business provides unparalleled insights for students through work-integrated learning, engagement with SUNS players, staff and coaches, connections with industry experts and potential employment opportunities.

“Not only does this partnership allow the club to enhance the careers of young professionals but enables us to foster a deeper understanding and connection to the Gold Coast SUNS and the sports industry on the Gold Coast.”

Advising that the partnership reflects the commitment of both organisations to delivering life-changing training and skills and is a game changer for people passionate about AFL and looking to kick-start a career in elite sport, TAFE Queensland General Manager Operations, Nik Babovic stated "at a time when people with job-ready skills are in high demand across Australia, students will have the unique opportunity to gain not only a nationally recognised qualification but also the chance to secure employment either at the SUNS or other elite sporting organisations.

“Training will be contextualised to support the specific skills required to succeed in elite sport and will give students valuable insights into the broader business of AFL as they develop skills in sport, leadership and management.”

“Our values, drive, and passion are aligned, and we look forward to growing our relationship and providing life-changing training to enhance career opportunities for the SUNS’ community and affiliated club programs throughout Queensland.”

Click here for more details on the Gold Coast College of Sport and Business.

Image: Today's annoncement of the Gold Coast SUNS partnership with TAFE Queensland.