18 January 2025
You’re getting ready to launch into student life; it’s exciting and can also be overwhelming as you prepare to start this new chapter!
Here are some top tips to get you organised for day one.
1. Get to know the Student Hub
The Student Hub is our online student portal where you can access everything you need for your study journey. Log in to get ready for the semester – get familiar with your timetable, access our online learning platforms and learn about our student services and events. Take a few minutes to check out the Student Hub.(opens in a new tab)
2. Check dates for Welcome Days and Orientation Sessions
If you’re having trouble getting started on the Student Hub, it’s a great idea to attend a Welcome Day, where you can get support logging into our online learning platforms, understand your timetable, take a campus tour and get your photo taken for your student ID card. Welcome Days are optional, and you don’t need to attend the same campus Welcome Day as where you are studying.
Orientation Sessions will also be held for each course and are compulsory to attend – you’ll find out important information such as what to bring on your first day. Find details on Welcome Days and Orientation.(opens in a new tab)
3. Plan your transport to SM TAFE
All our campuses are accessible via bus and train. To plan your journey on public transport you can use Transperth’s JourneyPlanner.(opens in a new tab) Note that the Armadale/Thornlie Line is closed until mid-2025. Transperth offers the SmartRider card for regular travellers – find out more about the SmartRider.(opens in a new tab)
We provide facilities if you want to walk or cycle to campus; all major campuses have bike racks and students at Murdoch campus can take advantage of shower facilities and secure lockers.
If you do intend to drive, be aware that most campuses have ample parking but campuses such as Carlisle, Murdoch and Armadale have limited parking. We highly recommend students attending these campuses consider public transport. Learn more on our Smart Travel(opens in a new tab) page.
4. Know your campus facilities
Plan ahead for your lunch needs - many of our campuses have onsite cafes and all our campuses have vending machines so you can purchase snacks and drinks to keep you fuelled! Learn about your Campus Facilities(opens in a new tab) such as library services and free Wi-Fi. Note that at some campuses you will need to bring your own food or purchase refreshments from a nearby café.
We have dedicated student zones at our Armadale, Bentley, Murdoch, Mandurah, Rockingham and Thornlie campuses – check out Life at SM TAFE(opens in a new tab) for more details. Each student zone has comfy couches, bean bags, study nooks, prayer area, computers, chargers, Wi-Fi and a kitchenette.
5. Find out about Student Support Service
Our team is here to support you through your learning journey and help you reach your goals and full potential. We offer a range of free services including Aboriginal and Torrres Strait Islander support(opens in a new tab) and assistance for students with a disability or who need extra support completing their studies. Check out our Student Support(opens in a new tab) page for the full range of support services.
There are a range of perks to being an SM TAFE student; from getting your hair done at the Hair, Beauty & Massage Student Clinics(opens in a new tab) , to going for a three-course meal at one of our award-winning training restaurants, or getting your furry friend groomed at our Pet Grooming Clinic (Murdoch).(opens in a new tab)
Our lecturer team are looking forward to guiding you in your learning journey - congratulations on taking the first big step to becoming job-ready for your chosen field!