Great results for Notre Dame\u27s inaugural Tertiary Enabling Program

Semester 2, 2008 saw the successful launch of a Tertiary Enabling Program (TEP) at The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Sydney Campus. Students successfully completing the inaugural program, which is designed to offer an alternative pathway to undergraduate studies, now have the opportunity to apply for entry into the University’s Schools of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Nursing and Philosophy and Theology. Dean of Education, Associate Professor Mark Tannock, said the course provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency in a university environment and their capacities at a tertiary level. “The course, offered over one semester, is rigorous in nature and requires students to enroll in seven units. Each of these units assesses students in areas such as academic writing, numeracy and information technology. Students are given the opportunity to show that they are capable of succeeding at university. “Notre Dame considers this an excellent alternative pathway for prospective students who might not have achieved the HSC results they desired. This is their second chance to get into university,” said Associate Professor Tannock. Coordinator of the TEP, Dr Jane Stenning, says it is inspirational to see students mature and develop throughout the course. “Quite often a lack of self-belief can hold some students back, and the TEP offers students the chance to practise the core academic skills they need for tertiary study in a supportive but challenging environment.” One student who successfully completed the course, Josh Bendall, will be starting a Bachelor of Communications, majoring in film and media, this semester. “I chose to take the Tertiary Enabling Program at Notre Dame, because it offered a much smoother transition into university than going to TAFE. It also gave me a great opportunity to experience university life first-hand. “I am really looking forward to starting my degree in Communications at the University. I also can’t wait to meet others in my course and make new friends,” said Mr Bendall. Media contact: Moira Saunders 02 8204 440