The popular courses are being revived following continued strong interest in the fitness industry across the district.

Senior educator Ken Radley said most TAFEs across the state had closed their sport and recreation departments in response to the new funding arrangements, but South West TAFE had looked at different options for delivering courses that maximised practical components.

It will mean that the certificate three and certificate four in fitness and the certificate four in massage therapy practice and diploma of remedial massage courses will run in 2015.

They have been reconfigured to remain affordable and attractive to prospective students. The certificates can lead to employment in roles such as fitness and gym instructors, personal trainers, recreation officers and recreation centre employees.

Mr Radley said the previous courses were well regarded and South West TAFE had never saturated the market. 

“We provided places that would sustain the workforce needs of the region.”

Mr Radley said the course had strong hands-on and practical components and the delivery modes and times would be set to suit the student group’s needs.

“We’ve received substantial feedback that some courses offered in the region by national companies are largely book or online-based and don’t focus on developing sound skills and work experience.

“We know the standards employers in our community require and we ensure out graduates are work-ready.”

Students have access to an on-campus gymnasium and other fitness settings.

Remedial massage course co-ordinator Jenny Lo Ricco said there had been strong interest shown in the revived course, particularly from students who had finished the first year of the program before it was cut.

The course is now in two sections, a one-year certificate four in massage therapy practice which is followed by a diploma in remedial massage. Graduates can leave at the end of the first year or opt to return the following year to complete their diploma.

The new course will involve a mix of online and industry work, making it viable for people who are working in the industry and can’t be in the classroom full-time.

“Everyone has been waiting in the wings for it,” Ms Lo Ricco said. “I’ve had people asking when are you going to do the diploma again.”

Further details will be available at information sessions on Tuesday at 6pm for the massage courses and Thursday at 6pm for the fitness courses.