The institution has responded to demand for graduates with experience using multiple software platforms.
TAFE NSW is broadening the curriculum for finance students by including the use of Reckon One cloud-based accounting software.
Students will be able to use Reckon One thanks to a partnership between Reckon and TAFE NSW.
“This partnership has been designed to provide students with confidence to move forward in contemporary accounting business practices by offering the right foundation and all the bookkeeping principles needed to run a business,” said Reckon ANZ managing director Sam Allert.
“Upon completion, students will be able to use Reckon One efficiently, have the practical skills needed to interpret data and then make strategic business decisions.”
Institute of Public Accountants CEO Andrew Conway said: “It is now essential that those looking for a career in the finance sector are familiar with multiple software systems.
“TAFE NSW has shown great foresight in recognising this change by updating its courses to teach students how to use cloud-based software, helping them prepare for a job in the bookkeeping industry.”
TAFE NSW Digital general manager Megan Aitken noted that there are now several accounting systems in common use. This is a marked change from the situation around a decade ago, when MYOB and QuickBooks dominated the small business accounting scene.
Reckon software is currently used by up to 65% of the accounting sector, the company stated.
Major accounting firms hiring TAFE graduates
Aitken pointed out that many major accounting firms are looking beyond university qualifications when recruiting, and are now looking for candidates with theoretical knowledge and hands-on training. “TAFE NSW is providing both,” she said.
“This is yet another example of TAFE NSW preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow by working closely with major employers and industry providers.”
One example is that Deloitte is reserving slots for TAFE NSW graduates in its annual experienced hire intake.
“We certainly see brilliant candidates coming out of TAFE NSW, equipped with the right skills to work at small and large accounting firms,” said Deloitte senior manager for experienced hire Donna McLeod.
“With this in mind, Deloitte is looking to recruit more TAFE students within its business.”
