TAFE SA is partnering with Queensland-based 2M Language Services to deliver interpreter skills training in Queensland.
The Interpreter Training Boost Program, funded by the Queensland Government, will focus on languages in demand, including Kurdish, Chin languages, Hmong, Karenni, Kinyarwanda, Oromo, Swahili, and other languages from new and emerging communities, over the next three years.
The aim is to equip 120 participants with interpreting skills to assist multicultural communities to access community services such as health, education, employment, law, and welfare.
TAFE SA, a leader in the teaching of interpreting and translating courses, will deliver a 12-week online Interpreting Skills course, endorsed by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
While TAFE SA will manage the teaching and learning, 2M Language Services will oversee applications and provide students with industry placements and professional development training. NAATI will provide intensive test preparation workshops.
TAFE SA’s Karren Raper, Director – Health, Community and Foundation Skills, says TAFE SA is proud to be chosen as the training provider for the Interpreter Training Boost Program.
“Our Interpreting Skills course is highly regarded, and we have been successfully delivering online interpreter training since 2018, including in regional Queensland,” she says.
“We’re looking forward to working with the Queensland Government, 2M Language Services and NAATI, to meet the demand for interpreting skills.”
Mark Painting, NAATI CEO, says the innovative partnership is the first of its kind in Australia.
“NAATI looks forward to working with all the stakeholders and hopes to see this type of initiative replicated in other states,” he says.
Tea Dietterich, 2M Language Services CEO, says course graduates are guaranteed an industry placement and will gain first-hand experience working as an interpreter.
“This insight behind the scenes and actual real-life jobs will see them onboarded with 2M Language Services and other providers. It will also enable them to work interstate thanks to video remote interpreting,” Tea says.
A 20-week TAFE SA English Language Bridging Course will be offered to those participants who need extra support so they can participate in the next round of the Interpreting Skills course.