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Exploring the Benefits of an SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management

Posted on by Minh Nguyen

SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management course

Australia is known for its popular cooking series, MasterChef, making it a top destination for students from around the world interested in studying hospitality courses.

If you’re passionate about cooking and want to advance your career in the kitchen, the SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS Course Code: 109682H) is a top choice for international students. This course is designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed to manage a busy kitchen successfully. In this blog, we’ll explore many benefits of earning this certification and how it can help you thrive in the competitive world of hospitality.

Skills you’ll learn in the SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management course

The SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is perfect for those aspiring to become senior chefs in professional kitchens. This program is highly regarded among international students and covers essential areas such as:

  • Handling workplace conflicts
  • Managing finances
  • Preparing a variety of dishes, from vegan to seafood
  • Designing and planning menus
  • Ensuring food safety and proper handling
  • Assessing hazards
  • Managing stock storage and maintenance
  • Basic first aid

Let’s dive into each of these skills and how they can elevate your cooking career.

Handling conflicts

In the hospitality industry, satisfying customer is a top priority, which can sometimes lead to conflicts among team members or with clients. Our Certificate IV in Kitchen Management teaches you how to manage and resolve these conflicts effectively. 

Managing finances

Financial management is an essential part of the Kitchen Management course. As the senior chef, you are required to control the costs and use the allocated budgets wisely. 

Preparing a variety of dishes

The course covers you how to prepare a wide range of dishes, including vegan or vegetarian options, cheese-based dishes, baked goods like bread, cakes and pastries, and dishes to meet specific dietary needs, as well as meat and seafood. 

Ensuring food safety

Food safety and hygiene are essential for preventing foodborne illnesses. The course teaches proper food handling to ensure that the food served is safe, free from harmful pathogens, and maintains the business’s positive reputation. 

Assessing hazards

Understanding and managing risks related to food ingredients, such as food fraud, supply chain issues, allergens and biological hazards, is critical for maintaining food safety standards. 

Managing stock

Efficiently stock management is key to running a smooth kitchen operation. Proper storage and maintenance of stock help prevent waste and keep the kitchen running efficiently. 

Basic first aid

First aid skills are important in the kitchen where accidents like burns, cuts, or contamination can occur. Knowing how to handle emergencies ensures the safety of both staff and customers.  

Advance your hospitality career with Queensford College

Career opportunities after completing SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management

Upon completing the SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management, you’ll be ready to work in various commercial kitchens, including bistros, hospitals, cafes, hotels and restaurants. Additionally, this course not only provides you with the practical skills but also offers opportunities to network with industry professionals in the food industry, enhancing your career prospects.

Here are some job opportunities you can pursue:

  • Chef de partie — Oversees a specific station in the kitchen, managing a team of assistants and cooks in larger kitchens
  • Chef – A professionally trained culinary expert who typically leads the kitchen as the head chef
  • Sous chef – Second in command in the kitchen, responsible for kitchen operations when the head chef is absent.

Summing up!

The SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is a valuable qualification that prepares you for supervisory roles in commercial kitchens and can even set you up to start your own hospitality business. At Queensford College, our course equips you with essential skills and guides you towards success as a professional chef.

Ready to take the next step in your culinary career? Enrol in the SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management today and experience all the benefits it has to offer.

Contact us for more information!

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Course mentioned: SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS Course Code: 109682H)

From Finance to Nursing: Salote’s Journey to a Rewarding Career in Healthcare

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
From Finance to Nursing: Salote’s Journey to a Rewarding Career in Healthcare

Salote, a current HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B) student, hails from Fiji and has just completed her aged care placement.

After spending over 10 years in the finance industry, Salote made a bold decision to leave it all behind, move to Australia, and pursue a career in nursing. “Switching from finance to nursing was a big step, but I’m grateful that Queensford College supported me through the transition. It was definitely the right choice for me.”

“While my finance job was rewarding, I felt a strong desire to be more hands-on in caring for people and being involved in healthcare. My own experiences in the hospital growing up made me realise nursing was my true calling. Watching the nurses who cared for me and others inspired me to become one of them.”

Salote’s caring nature led her to turn her passion for helping others into a nursing career. She recently completed a 3-week clinical placement at an aged care facility. During her placement, she shadowed Registered Nurses, assisted with medication rounds, and observed various medical procedures. “Putting classroom learning into real-life situations was exciting. Seeing theory in action and learning on the job was an eye-opener.”

“The best part of my placement was interacting with the residents, hearing their stories, and learning about their medications and physical activities. This experience really solidified my passion for nursing and helped me gain practical skills that will be valuable in my future career.”

“Throughout my studies, I felt fully supported. My trainer was motivating and made learning enjoyable. The lessons, from classroom work to simulation labs, have been very rewarding and prepared me well for real-world nursing.”

Salote is truly passionate about her career and finds fulfilment from helping others. She’s currently working as a Personal Care Attendant on the Sunshine Coast.

If you’re interested in making a difference in people’s lives, our HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B) course could be perfect for you. Learn more about the course here.

3 Key Criteria For Studying Hospitality In Australia

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
studying Hospitality in Australia

Are you considering a career in hospitality?

One thing is for certain; it’s a great time for a career in hospitality. It’s growing fast, with an impressive 10.24% increased expected by 2028. Hotels, restaurants, and bars are all busy again, and there’s a real need for skilled workers. This makes it a great time to start a career in hospitality.

In fact, the hospitality industry is one of the top choices for job seekers in 2023, according to Forbes. To take advantage of these opportunities, it’s important to pick the right education path. Here are three things to consider when choosing a hospitality course:

1. Career goal

Start by thinking about what you want to achieve in your career. Do you see yourself managing a restaurant, working as inflight cabin crew, or exploring other areas of hospitality? Are you excited about food or creating great experiences for people? Understanding what drives you will help you choose the right course. 

2. Courses

When you choose your hospitality course, do your research on all the different study options, and consider how much time you’re willing to invest in your education, based on your personal career goals.

SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS Course Code: 109682H) teaches you how to manage a kitchen, handle daily tasks, organise work, plan food production, and understand legal requirements.

  • Duration: 78 weeks

SIT50422 Diploma of Hospitality Management (CRICOS Course Code: 110556D) is for those aiming to be senior managers in hospitality. It combines broad industry skills with management know-how to run operations smoothly.

  • Duration: 93 weeks (or 26 weeks if you’ve completed the Certificate IV in Kitchen Management)

SIT60322 Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management (CRICOS Course Code: 110559A) prepares you for managerial roles in various hospitality sectors like restaurants, hotels, catering, and more. It offers skills for managing different areas, including accommodation, food, and beverages.

  • Duration: 46 weeks

3. Industry connections and work placements

Consider how well-connected the institution is within the industry. Schools with strong industry ties often offer valuable job placements and networking opportunities. These connections can help you gain practical experience and improve your job prospects after graduation.

At Queensford College, work placement is included in the course. For instance, with the SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS Course Code: 109682H), you’ll complete 360 hours of hands-on experience with industry partners.

You won’t have to find your own placement — we’ll handle that for you!

Check out how one of our students succeeded with their placement at a fine dining venue:

6 Reasons Why Nursing Careers Can Be Highly Rewarding

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
6 Reasons Why Nursing Careers Can Be Highly Rewarding

Nursing is a crucial and always-needed profession. While many nurses value the job security and good pay, they also find deep satisfaction in their work. For those considering a career in nursing, it’s helpful to understand what makes this field so rewarding beyond the salary. Here are some top reasons why nursing can be a fulfilling career choice. 

Make a difference in others' lives

Nursing is a respected and meaningful profession. Although it can be tough both physically and emotionally, many nurses find the job very rewarding. One of the greatest rewards is the emotional fulfilment that comes from caring for patients. Nurses provide comfort and support to people who are vulnerable, building strong, caring relationships. Helping patients through difficult times and making a positive impact on their lives and their families is incredibly fulfilling.  

Opportunities for career growth and learning

Nursing is a field that is always changing, offering plenty of chances to learn and advance. After becoming a registered nurse, you can explore various career paths. You might work in areas like paediatrics, intensive care, home care, or even become a nursing instructor to train others. The opportunities for growth and new experiences in nursing are endless, allowing you to keep learning and developing throughout your career. 

Teamwork and hands-on experience

Nurses play a key role in caring for patients as part of a team. You’ll work alongside other nurses, patient care associates, social workers and doctors to provide coordinated care. These teamwork opportunities are highly rewarding because you’ll learn from others with different expertise and gain practical experience every day.  

Job security and high demand

Nurses are always needed, no matter where they work. In Australia, the ageing population is just one of the factors behind a steady demand for skilled nurses. This high demand translates to strong job security, so choosing a nursing career often means you can count on stable employment and a good outlook for your skills.

Flexibility

Nursing offers a lot of flexibility. You can often choose to work part-time, full-time or casual, and you might work in various settings like hospitals, aged care, home care, schools, or even as a trainer.

The shift work in nursing also allows you to avoid the typical nine-to-five routine, letting you adjust your work schedule to fit your personal life. Whether you’re interested in bedside care, teaching, research or wellness, there are many paths you can take within nursing.

Pay and job security

As an in-demand profession, nursing pays well and offers job security. Along with the personal satisfaction of helping people, you can also enjoy stable employment and good pay. 

Why Become a Nurse

Nursing might not be the easiest of careers to undertake, but it can potentially be a highly rewarding and fulfilling profession. Being highly respected by patients and their families, making a difference to people at all stages of life, and using your practical and soft skills to provide excellent care are some of the reasons why nurses love their jobs. In addition, nurses are always in demand, are paid well, and have a good degree of flexibility when it comes to work and location.

Are you looking to start out in a nursing career? Our HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B) could help you fast track your career in nursing. Contact us today for more information about our nursing course.

Achieving Success in Kitchen Management: Insights from Kimberly Casuyon

Posted on by Minh Nguyen

We often hear from our students about their curiosity and nerves before starting their placements and how to make the most of placement. To get a closer look at what it’s really like, we chatted with our talented student, Kimberly Casuyon. 

A little about Kim

Kim Casuyon

Kim Casuyon is a SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS Course Code: 10682H) student working under Chef Chad. She was chosen for a placement at the fine-dining venue Victory Lane in Ascot. Kim spent two days a week there — Wednesdays and Thursdays — and recently completed her 10-week placement. 

So, we visited the venue to congratulate Kim and also brought a handful of questions to ask Kim!

#1. Hi Kim! Congratulations on finishing your placement! How was your placement?

Kim: Thank you so much! It was really fun and amazing. I learned a lot of new things and new processes. The best part was being able to use what I learned in my practical classes here in the kitchen. 

#2. That's great to hear, Kim! Many students wonder what a typical day during placement looks like. Can you tell us about your daily tasks?

Kim: Sure! My daily tasks involve lots of prepping. My day typically starts with helping the chefs clean and set up the kitchen. Then, I do a lot of prepping — chopping vegetables, preparing meat and seafood, and preparing desserts. I also help out during service and with special events and private functions we hold at Victory Lane. 

#3. So, what was your favourite part about placement?

Kim: There were so many great parts! I loved learning new things, and the chefs were amazing at helping me do just that. Every new experience helped me improve my skills and knowledge. Overall, it was a fantastic experience.

The friendly and supportive culture was a big plus. Everyone was nice and welcoming, which made it easier for me to learn and grow. Even though it was just 10 weeks, I felt truly valued here.

#4. You've talked a lot about learning new things. Can you share some specific things you learned during your placement?

Kim: One thing I found really interesting was food texturing. It’s amazing how much texture can add to a dish, making it more exciting and enjoyable. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference.

I also improved my communication and problem-solving skills. For example, when a customer has a complaint about a dish, I learn how to handle it by working with the team to find a solution, whether that’s making a new dish or offering a complimentary item. This helped me get better at talking with both customers and my team.

I also learned how to manage stress by taking time to relax and stay active, which is really important.

#5. Do you feel that your placement has made you more confident about entering the workforce?

Kim: Definitely! Working in a fine-dining restaurant has sharpened both my technical and soft skills. I feel ready to handle any challenges that come my way. I’ve been using the skills I learned from my classes and placement in my current job, and it’s helping me achieve great results. 

#6. How has Queensford College supported you in your personal and academic growth, and during your placement?

Kim: I started with Chef Chad for my SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS Course Code: 109682H) class, and his teaching was really engaging. He covered all the important industry standards and details, like washing our hands before cooking and preparing our work clothes before class. These may seem like small things, but they made a big impact during my placement and my current job.

When it was time to find a placement, I was juggling work and studies, which was tough. Luckily, the team at Queensford College, especially Chef Bryant, helped me find a placement and supported me throughout. If I had any questions, I could always call him.

The practical classes at Queensford really prepared me with the skills and habits I needed for the real workplace.

Kitchen Management Chef Bryant Kim Casuyon

#7. Thanks for your kind words, Kim. Chef Chad will be thrilled to hear that. Before we wrap up, do you have any advice for students interested in studying Hospitality in Australia?

Kim: Coming from an Accounting background, I wanted a change from my office life. Since I enjoy being active, I decided to start fresh in Brisbane and study Kitchen Management at Queensford College.

My advice for anyone starting out is to be open to new experiences and learn as much as you can. Work hard and smart, and don’t forget to take time for yourself — spend time with family and friends or just unwind.

Also, develop your attention to details skill. They might seem minor, but they can make a big difference in your career.

Thank you, Kim, for a wonderful interview. Congratulations again on finishing your placement! We wish you all the best in your future career.

While we’re here at the venue, we also took a moment to chat with Jamie, the Head Chef at Victory Lane, to get this thoughts on Kim’s performance. 

#1. Thanks for speaking with us, Chef Jamie. How do you feel about Kim's performance during her placement?

Chef Jamie: Kim did an excellent job during her time here. She handled every task to a high standard, asked thoughtful questions, and took feedback well. Her work on prepping and special events was top-notch. Kim’s dedication and hard work have been impressive. In my view, while skills can be taught, a positive attitude is what makes a lasting impact. Kim’s attitude and eagerness to learn will definitely her her advance in her career. She’s a great example of a promising new talent in the industry. 

#2. That's great to hear! If given the chance, would you welcome more students from Queensford College?

Chef Jamie: Absolutely! I enjoy teaching and training, and I’d love to see more students from Queensford College. It’s always exciting to meet new apprentices and see their aspirations.

#3. Thanks, Jamie. We hope to see more of our talented students at Victory Lane in the future. Is there anything else you'd like to say to Kim?

Chef Jamie: Yes, I wish Kim could have stayed longer because there’s so much more she could learn here. Her hard work and eagerness to learn are exactly what’s needed in this field. If we had an open spot, I’d hire her right away. But I’m confident she’ll do well anywhere in the industry. She has all the qualities of a great chef. We’ll miss her, and our team truly appreciated her help. 

And with that, we've wrapped up our interview. Thank you, Kim and Chef Jamie, for sharing your insights with us today!

How Do I Use The Eisenhower Matrix For Effective Studying?

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
Eisenhower Matrix For Effective Studying

Are you someone who puts off studying until the last minute?

Feeling swamped by work or other activities that keep you from focusing on your studies?

The Eisenhower Matrix is a tool that can help you get more organised and boost your productivity by teaching you how to prioritise tasks. It shows you which activities are worth your time and which aren’t.

Learn how to use this matrix to set your goals and achieve success in your studies.

Did you know?
90% of college students procrastinate and 25% struggle with it regularly.

What is the Eisenhower Matrix?

The Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-important matrix, helps you figure out what tasks are most important. By using this tool, you can spot your top priorities and tell apart tasks that have a big impact from those that don’t.

It’s great for helping you think about tasks in four categories:

  • Important
  • Unimportant
  • Urgent
  • Non-urgent tasks

Using the Eisenhower Matrix helps you

  • Change how you manage your schedule, projects and assignments
  • Overcome procrastination and make sure you have time for essential tasks
  • Write down, visualise, and easily update your short, medium, and long-term goals when needed

Think about or quickly list 4 of your tasks. Where do you think they fit in the Eisenhower Matrix?

Using Quadrants 1 & 2

Q1: Urgent and important

Place tasks that need your immediate attention in this quadrant — for example, studying to retake an exam in 72 hours.

Try to avoid having too many urgent and important tasks.

Juggling multiple urgent tasks can be stressful and overwhelming. It also increases the chance of missing deadlines and creates extra pressure from multitasking.

Q2: Important but not urgent

Focus most of your time here.

This is where you plan and organise. For example, prioritise tasks and schedule your projects or studies based on their complexity and deadlines.

Managing tasks in this quadrant helps you avoid the stress of last-minute work.

With a clear schedule, you’ll feel more relaxed and confident, knowing you have enough time to prepare for exams and complete assignments before they become urgent.

By regularly working on tasks in this quadrant two, you reduce the number of urgent problems in quadrant one.

Using Quadrants 3 & 4

Q3: Urgent but not important

Delegate these tasks or handle them in your spare time. They might seem urgent, but they’re not critical. For example, responding to certain emails or texts from friends.

Learn to say no when you have important tasks to complete. If you’re always focusing on others’ needs or trying to please everyone, it’s easy to fall behind on your own tasks.

Emails and texts can look urgent, but resist the urge to focus on them — respond during your free time.

Q4: Not urgent and not important

These tasks are distractions. Limit your time on them to 5% or less. For example, spending too much time on social media, watching TV, or playing video games can become habits that are hard to break.

If these distractions are keeping you from focusing on your work, find a quiet space at home or book a study room at the library for a better environment to prepare for exams or complete assignments.

Self-care

Wondering where to place activities like exercise, preparing healthy meals or participating in certain social activities?

Self care and good mental health are crucial. If you think you might neglect them, consider putting them in quadrant 2 to ensure you make time for them. 

How to use the Eisenhower Matrix

Now that you’ve already familiar with the four quadrants and what to put in each one, here’s how to start managing your tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix:

Step 1: List your tasks

Create a list of all the things you need to do. This includes anything that requires your attention, including work-related and personal obligations.

Step 2: Assess their urgency and importance

Determine how urgent and important each task is. Urgency means how soon it needs to be done, while importance reflects how much it impacts your long-term goals.

Step 3: Put tasks in their respective quadrants

Sort each task into its corresponding quadrant according to your evaluation of its urgency and importance.

Step 4: Prioritise within each quadrant

Prioritise tasks further within each quadrant based on their specific urgency or importance. This step helps you start with the most important tasks.

Step 5: Take action

Once tasks are categorised and prioritised, it’s time to take action. Start with Quadrant 1 tasks that need immediate attention. Then, you can consider delegating the tasks in Quadrant 3 to the right people before moving on to Quadrant 2 tasks to stay ahead of deadlines and manage your time effectively.

Step 6: Review and adjust

Regularly review and adjust your matrix. As prioritise and deadlines change, you might need to rearrange tasks. Update your matrix weekly or whenever new tasks come up.

8 Essential Hospitality Skills and Ways To Highlight Them

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
hospitality skills

Rewriting your CV, preparing for an interview or applying for a job in the hospitality industry?

To succeed in the hospitality industry, you’ll need to have a strong set of soft skills, plus any specific technical skills which are relevant to your particular company. Even if you don’t work in hospitality directly, hospitality skills can be very useful in any job that requires you to communicate well with others. In this article, we’ll cover 8 key skills for a career in hospitality, plus our advice on how best to highlight them to potential employers.

What are hospitality skills?

Hospitality skills are what help service industry workers build a positive connection between the company and its customers. Good hospitality skills includes the ability to be friendly and professional with customers at all times, to anticipate and meet customers’ needs and to be meticulously organised so that the company’s operations run smoothly. 

These skills are crucial to any job in the service industry, whether it’s at a hotel, restaurant, spa or front desk. Although different roles may vary, they often share the same core skills, such as communication and teamwork. 

8 skills to develop for a hospitality career

Working in hospitality involves a variety of soft skills, many of which you’ll developed over time. Depending on your role, you might also pick up hard or technical skills, like using specific software for managing bookings. Here are 8 key skills for a career in hospitality. 

Attention to detail

In hospitality, attention to detail means spotting all the small details that may affect a guests’ experience. This might be noticing when a surface needs cleaning or if a customer’s order is delayed. High-end providers stand out by anticipating all the details of a customer’s visit and doing everything possible to improve their experience.

Multi-tasking

People in hospitality manage large groups of customers while remembering the individual needs of each customer. They treat each customer as their top priority. Multi-tasking skills can be developed with practice. There are some ways you can improve your efficiency, such as making checklists or planning out your tasks at the start of your shift.  

Communication

Clear and professional communication is key in hospitality. This means making sure guests get what they need and keeping in touch with other staff so nothing is missed.

Good communication also involves listening and understanding body language, which is crucial in hospitality. With these skills, you can often figure out what a customer needs even before they ask.

Problem-solving

Problem-solving is crucial in any hospitality role. It means spotting issues guests may have and finding the best ways to fix them so their experience isn’t affected. It also involves following up with customers afterwards to ensure your team resolved the issue to their satisfaction.

Initiative

In hospitality, it’s important to use your knowledge and instincts to handle new situations. Instead of waiting for instructions, great hospitality workers anticipate what needs to be done next. Showing initiative not only impresses customers but also helps make everyone’s job easier.

Adaptability

In hospitality, you often need to handle last-minute changes or unexpected situations. This might include shift changes or customers asking questions you don’t know the answer to. Adaptability is a skill you can develop over time.

Teamwork

Teamwork helps you to collaborate effectively with your colleagues and increase customer satisfaction. When you collaborate, you can achieve more together because everyone brings their own unique skills and strengths. Teamwork also means sharing responsibilities, supporting each other, and improving your communication skills.

Cultural awareness

In hospitality, you’ll meet people from all walks of life, each with their own backgrounds, beliefs and expectations. Being open and respectful of these differences help everyone feel welcome and comfortable. This approach not only ensures a great experience for your guests but also helps you build a reputation as an outstanding hospitality professional.

Ways to highlight your hospitality skills

When applying for a role in hospitality, it’s important to highlight the skills that make you a good fit for the job, as well as any relevant qualifications and experience. Here’s how you can showcase your skills to potential employers: 

Highlight your skills on your resume

When writing your resume, make sure to emphasise skills that are relevant to hospitality, even if you gained them from different jobs, volunteer work, or placements.

In the experience section, clearly state all the responsibilities you held in each previous role to highlight your versatility and adaptability. If you have any performance metrics, like customer satisfaction ratings or performance awards, include these as well. They provide strong evidence of your skills and accomplishments in hospitality.

Go into detail in your cover letter

Your cover letter is your chance to go into detail why you’re interested in the role and how your past experiences make you a great fit. A great way to showcase your hospitality skills in a cover letter is to use specific examples to highlight your skills. For instance, if you solved a tough problem for a customer on your own, mention it. Describe the situation, what you did, and the outcome. 

Demonstrate your skills in an interview

An interview is your opportunity to make a strong impression, especially in hospitality, where customer interaction is key. Dress professionally in neutral colours and be friendly and professional with your interviewer. Smile naturally to show your positive attitude, and pay attention to your body language to convey calm and professionalism. 

Five Reasons Why Accounting Makes for a Great Career

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
Accounting

Are you a numbers guru and looking for a stable career with plenty of room to grow?

Taking an accounting course has many benefits both personally and professionally. It builds important skills that are useful in all parts of life and opens up various job opportunities. In this blog, we’re cover the top five reasons why you should study accounting.

What is accounting?

In simple terms, accounting involves recording, summarising, and analysing financial records to provide useful insights. This can include preparing financial statements, analysing budgets, and keeping track of cash flow.

Accountants also handle business finances, helping companies make smart decisions based on accurate information. They assist with planning for the future, managing risks, and achieving financial goals. That’s why accounting is a critical function for any and every organisation.

What is the average accounting salary in Australia?

The average accounting salary range in Australia is between $65,000 and $85,000 with most entry-level jobs starting at around $60,000. Senior accountants who have years of experience and training may earn over $100,000. 

What are the different types of accounting courses?

Certificate IV in Accounting & Bookkeeping

Our FNS40222 Certificate IV in Accounting & Bookkeeping (CRICOS Course Code: 109978C) is a great starting point for anyone looking to work in accounting and gain professional recognition. This qualification is perfect for roles such as tax agents, accounts managers and business analysts, as well as for those handling various accounting tasks in different industries.

This course covers key areas like preparing and lodging business and instalment activity statements, data processing, monthly reconciliations, budgeting, and financial reporting. You’ll also learn how to make end-of-year adjustments and finalise financial records. Additionally, dealing with the Commissioner of Taxation regarding activity statements and other lodgements is an important part of this qualification.

This course equips you with the skills and knowledge to work independently and handle both routine and complex tasks with confidence.

Possible career outcomes:

  • Financial analyst
  • Registered tax agent
  • Budget specialist
  • Accounting manager

Diploma of Accounting

Our FNS50222 Diploma of Accounting (CRICOS Course Code: 110560H) is a thorough course designed for various accounting roles in financial services and other sectors. This includes positions such as tax agents, accounts payable and receivable officers, payroll service providers, and other accounting roles across different industries.

In these roles, you’ll solve a range of complex problems and analyse information from different sources. You’ll also plan, coordinate, and review your own work while guiding others, all within set guidelines. This diploma prepares you for handling these responsibilities with confidence and skill.

Possible career outcomes:

  • Tax agent
  • Accounts receivable officer
  • Accounts payable officer
  • Payroll service

Why should you study an accounting course?

If you’ve been considering studying, here are 5 great reasons to choose accounting:

Job opportunities

Becoming an accountant allows you to work in basically any industry. With a background in accounting, you can work as a tax account, financial analyst, internal auditor, payroll clerk, or in accounts payable and receivable. This broad range of options means you’ll have plenty of choices after you graduate.

Career growth

An accounting course is a valuable step towards career advancement. With the right skills and experience, you can move up to managerial roles like senior accountant, accounting manager, or finance director. Plus, accounting skills are highly transferable, allowing you to work anywhere in the world, especially if you’re a chartered accountant. 

High earning potential

Accounting is a well-paying profession. By completing an accounting course, you can increase your earning potential. As you gain more experience and advance in your career, your salary can grow significantly, with no upper limit on what you can earn. 

Transferable skills

Accounting courses teach valuable skills that are valuable in any industry, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and financial management. These skills are useful in any industry and make you a versatile candidate in the job market. They are also helpful if you decide to start your own business.

Job security

The demand for accountants is always high. Every business requires accounting services, which means skilled accountants are always in demand. The accounting field is expected to grow with a 9.2% increase in accounting jobs expected by 2026. This makes an accounting qualification a secure and reliable choice.

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Accounting is in high demand in Australia and will continue to be. With strong job growth expected in the coming years, now is a great time to start your journey in accounting.

Contact us today to learn more about our accounting course and kickstart your journey to a successful and rewarding career in accounting and bookkeeping.

Essential Communication Skills for Success

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
communication skills

Communication skills allow you to understand and be understood by others. They include effectively explaining your thoughts, listening carefully, giving and receiving feedback, and speaking in public. Just watch a baby trying to mimic their mother’s sounds to see how natural and important communication is.

At its core, communication is an act of transferring information from one place to another. It may be vocally (using voice), written (using printed or digital media such as books, magazines, websites or emails), visually (using logos, maps, charts or graphs) or non-verbally (using body language, gestures and the tone and pitch of voice). Often, it involves a mix of these methods.

While mastering communication skills might be a lifelong journey, there are simple ways to improve how you share and receive information effectively.

Examples of communication skills

To be a good communicator, you can learn and practice different skills that all work together. It’s important to use these skills in various situations to get better. 

Active listening

Active listening means paying close attention to the person who is speaking to you. People who are active listeners are appreciated by their coworkers for their respect and attention. Though it might seem straightforward, it can be challenging to master. To be an active listener, try to stay focused on the speaker, avoid distractions like phones or computers, and think of questions or comments to make a thoughtful response. 

Adapting your communication style

Different situations call for different ways of communicating. To make the best use of your communication skills, think about who you’re talking to and choose the best way to communicate with them.

For example, if you are contacting a potential employer, a formal email might be better than a text. In the workplace, it’s often easier to explain complex ideas face-to-face or through a video call rather than in a lengthy email.

Confidence

In the workplace, people are more likely to respond better to ideas that are presented with confidence. There are many ways to appear confident, including by making eye contact when you’re addressing someone, sitting up straight with your shoulders open and preparing ahead of time so your thoughts are polished. You’ll find confident communication is useful not just on the job but in your everyday as well. 

Giving and receiving feedback

Strong communicators handle feedback well and give helpful input to others. Feedback should answer questions, suggest solutions or improve the project or topic being discussed. 

Volume and clarity

When you speak, it’s important to be clear and loud enough to be heard. Finding the right volume for different settings is key to effective communication. Speaking too loudly may be disrespectful in certain settings, if you’re unsure, observe how others speak and follow their lead.

Empathy

Having empathy means understand and sharing the feelings of others. This skill is crucial in both team and one-on-one conversations. By recognising other’s emotions, you can respond appropriately. For example, if someone is upset, showing empathy can help calm the situation. Similarly, understanding when someone is feeling positive and enthusiastic can help you gain support for your ideas and projects. 

Respect

Respect in communication means knowing when to speak and when to listen. In a group, it’s important to let others talk without interruption. Being respectful also means using your time well — staying on topic, asking clear questions, and giving full answers to questions asked of you.  

Understanding nonverbal cues

A great deal of communication comes through nonverbal signs such as body language, facial expression and eye contact. When listening, pay attention not just to words but also to these nonverbal cues. Similarly, be aware of your own body language to make sure you’re sending the right messages to others. 

Responsiveness

Responding quickly to phone calls or emails makes you seem more effective than someone who takes a long time to reply. If you can answer a request or question in five minutes or less, it’s best to handle it right away. For more complex issues, you can still acknowledge that you’ve received the message and let the person know you’ll give a full response later.

Smart ways to improve your communication skills

Communication experts offer plenty of tips for improving your skills. For instance, check out Simon Lancaster’s advice on speaking like a leader or see what Linda Reynier says about building strong communication skills for both personal and professional life.

As you can see, there isn’t just one way to develop excellent communications or become a great leader. The approach you choose will depend on your goals, your personality, and what works best for you, as different people have different styles and skills.

To help you get started, here are some effective ways to quickly and efficiently improve your communication skills:

1. Put away distractions

Improving your overall communication abilities means being fully present. Put away anything that might distract you, like your phone. This shows others that you’re listening attentively and helps you respond more thoughtfully to the conversation. 

2. Be open to feedback

While working on your communication skills, ask friends or colleagues for their feedback on areas where you could improve. Use their suggestions to enhance your next conversation, meeting, or video call. 

3. Focus on interpersonal skills

Improving your ability to work with others will enhance how you communicate with colleagues. managers, and others. Interpersonal skills, such as teamwork, collaboration, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution, and often go hand-in-hand with effective communicating. 

Written and visual communication tips

Writing and imagery both involve using different methods to share information with your audience. Here are some tips to help you improve in both areas: 

4. Be concise and specific

Staying on message is key. Use the acronym BRIEF (background, reason, information, end, follow-up) to guide your written or visual communication. Keeping your message clear and to the point helps your audience understand your main idea without getting bogged down in unnecessary details. 

5. Tailor your message to your audience

Adjust your communication based on who you’re addressing, just like how you would personalise an email. Make sure your writing or visuals match the needs and interests of your audience. Think about what they need to know and the best way to present the information. 

6. Simplify and stay on message

Proofread and remove anything that strays from your main message. One of the best ways to improve communication is to work on creating concise and clear conversations, emails, and presentations that are error-free. 

Verbal communication tips

Verbal communication isn’t just about the words you use. Here are some tips to help you improve both speaking and listening skills. 

7. Prepare what you're going to say

Before presenting an idea or having an important conversation with your supervisor, take time to plan what you’ll say. Organising your thoughts beforehand makes your conversation clearer and more effective. 

8. Get rid of conversation fillers

To improve your speaking, work on removing fillers like “um” and “ah.” Start paying attention to these fillers so you can use them less and sound more confident when when you speak. Often these phrases are used to fill the silence, which is a natural part of the conversation, so try to embrace the silence rather than fill it with unnecessary words. 

9. Record yourself

If you’re preparing for a presentation, practice and record yourself. Watch the recording to find areas for improvement, such as reducing fillers or making better eye contact with your audience. 

10. Ask questions and summarise the other person's main points

Being an active listener involves asking relevant questions and summarising key points to show you understand. Engaging in this way makes communication more effective and helps ensure that both sides are on the same page. 

11. Be ready for different answers

Listen without judging, especially if you get unexpected or surprising responses. Stay open-minded, be aware of your body language, and avoid interrupting. 

12. Make sure you understand

Before ending a conversation, take a moment to ask a few follow-up questions and then recap what you’ve discussed. Confirm what you’ve heard and clarify the next steps to ensure everyone is on the same page. 

Non-verbal communication

Lastly, your body communicates a lot. Use the tips below to become more aware of your body language and other important aspects of non-verbal communication. 

13. Work on your body language

Body language plays a big role in communicating. When you’re listening, avoid slouching, nod to show you’re paying attention, and be mindful of your facial expressions. When you’re speaking, maintain eye contact and use natural hand gestures. 

14. Be aware of your emotions

Your emotions can be communicated non-verbally. During conversations, meetings, or presentations, stay present with your emotions and reflect on whether your body language and tone are conveying what you want them to.

15. Use empathy

Consider how others are feeling as you communicate with them. To have a meaningful conversation or presentation, be empathetic. Putting yourself in their shoes helps you understand their needs better and communicate more effectively.

Frequently asked questions

  • How does communication help me in my career development? Communication is a key skill that managers look for when promoting employees. Along with problem-solving and time management, these are the top three qualities hiring managers value most.
  • How can I practice my communication skills? Every conversation is an opportunity to practice. You can also ask to take on more communication-focused tasks at work, like leading a meeting or presenting the team’s results.
  • How does my attitude play a role in communication? People respond better to coworkers or supervisors who have a positive and fair attitude. Stay upbeat, smile while you speak, and avoid conversations that put others down.

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Clinical Placements for Nursing Students

Posted on by Minh Nguyen
clinical placement

Find out everything about our clinical placements for Nursing students, how we give you practical experience across various settings and in your chosen field.

At Queensford College, we work closely with our industry GP clinics, aged care and mental health facilities, to give you practical experience across various settings. 

What is a clinical placement in the HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B)?

With every clinical placement, you’ll put theory into practice, applying what you learn in the classroom to a clinical setting. Using your knowledge in a training environment, you will undergo hands-on learning, gaining new skills and improving your understanding of different areas of practice. Equally, you will apply what you learn from the placement to your coursework. As they’re from part of your course, you will be assessed on each placement. Queensford Placement team will organise your placements and take care of any admin or requirements such as insurance. 

How many hours of placements do student nurses do in Australia?

During our HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B), you will complete a total of 400 hours (10 weeks) of unpaid clinical placements. You will do your clinical placements in the aged care environment, sub-acute and primary healthcare facilities, mental-health facilities and acute-care settings. Currently, it is divided as 120 hours (3 weeks) for aged care, 80 hours (2 weeks) for mental health, 80 hours (2 weeks) for primary health care, 120 hours (3 weeks) for acute care. 

What do you need for a HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing placement (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B)?

To be eligible to attend these clinical placements you must successfully complete all the written and practical assessments within the study period related to the clinical placement. You’ll also need to have these pre-requisite documents before your placement.

  1. Valid Australian national police check
  2. Valid Overseas Police Check or a statutory declaration (overseas students)
  3. NDIS Worker check (NDISWC)
  4. Valid Australian Working with children check (WWCC)
  5. Current immunisation record with evidence of up-to-date vaccinations
  6. Current First Aid Certificate to meet the requirements of HLTAID011
  7. Meet vaccination, occupational screening and other work placement/placement provider requirements

How do you get through a HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing placement (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B)?

Your trainers will work with you in class so that you’re thoroughly prepared for your placement. Plus, combine with your theory and hands-on training in our skills lab will give you some advance knowledge and expectations when you’re at the training facility.

During placement, you will be placed under the supervision and guidance of a facilitator or a senior staff member. You may also be partnered with a nurse or healthcare worker throughout your experience. You will always be fully supported by experienced professionals who can answer all your questions and guide you every step of the way.

Clinical placements give you the chance to practice in a variety of healthcare settings, building practical skills and broadening knowledge while being assessed for it. You’ll gain genuine insights into the diverse career paths available to you when you graduate as an enrolled nurse with a HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing (CRICOS Course Code: 114217B).