Skills Institute Latest News

NEW BLUE COLLAR ELITE PROVE IT PAYS TO BE SKILLED

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:51:00 +1000

National research revealing blue collar workers are the 21st Century’s powerhouse employees has highlighted the importance of partnerships between industry and education and training providers.

Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White said the wage figures, released by Suncorp Bank, dispelled the long-held myth that the only way to have a successful career was to complete a university qualification.

“In the past blue collar workers haven’t been held in the same esteem as professionals, but what these findings reveal is that often their earning capacity is outstripping that of their white collar counterparts,” Mr White said.

“Many industries that have been traditionally described as blue collar are now enjoying very good wage levels and fantastic career paths, including the mechanical services and construction sectors.

“For example the utilities industry, which was ranked the second highest earning industry in the nation, provides employment opportunities in plumbing, electrical, mechanical and renewable energies to name a few.

“Not only can trainees and apprentices in these industries complete their trade, but they can choose to carry out further studies to move into the project management, design, engineering or consulting side of the business as well.”

Mr White said one of the reasons trade industries were so successful in attracting good recruits was that they had lifted the aspirations of young people to work in their industries, giving them a better understanding of the benefits and career paths available in these sectors.

“Other industries could follow the lead of the trade industries in partnering with vocational education and training providers and ultimately being seen to proactively engage and promote their industry sectors as great places to work,” he said.

SKILLS-AURORA PARTNERSHIP PROVIDES VITAL NBN TRAINING

Fri, 11 May 2012 11:34:00 +1000

Tasmania’s telecommunications and electrical workers will have access to vital skills and training thanks to a new $4.5 million state-of-the-art training facility opened in Mornington – the first of its kind in Tasmania.

The Mornington Training Centre, a joint project between the Skills Institute and Aurora Energy, will also enable the completion of the National Broadband Network roll out in the State, providing contractors with the skills and safety qualifications needed to work on the network.

Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White said the Centre was evidence of the great things the organisation could achieve by partnering with industry and businesses in Tasmania.

“The Skills Institute has been working with Aurora on a range of projects for more than 10 years now, providing co-training for Aurora employees, including line workers and electrical inspectors,” Mr White said.

“In recent times for example, we have delivered Power Systems Safety Rules (PSSR) training as well as the Certificate IV qualification in Inspection and Audits.

“We have also been working with Aurora during the roll out of stages 1 and 2 of the new NBN in Tasmania to deliver vital safety awareness training for those working on vital infrastructure for the new network.

“This essential training includes a Construction White Card as well as First Aid, Electrical Awareness and Elevated Work Platform courses.”

Mr White said the Centre would provide further benefits not only to Skills Institute students and Aurora employees, but also to Tasmania’s electrical and telecommunications industries.

“New courses to be provided by the Skills Institute at the Centre will include NBN safety and awareness, fibre-optic splicing, pit and pipe work for cable haulage and network testing, to name just a few,” he said.

“We will also be looking to provide some units of the Certificate II qualification in Telecommunications here at the Centre.

“In addition, anyone working as a sub-contractor for Visionstream for the remainder of the NBN roll out across the State, whether they be skilled or semi-skilled, will be able to obtain the training they need through this new Centre.

“The Centre and the NBN also provide new opportunities for the State’s electrical contractors, who will be able to specialise in Digital Reception Technology (DRT), expanding their businesses to install and service anything that can be connected to the internet.”

The Mornington Training Centre redevelopment was officially opened by the Premier of Tasmania, the Hon. Lara Giddings, joined by Aurora Energy CEO Peter Davis and Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White.

The Skills Institute will be offering the following courses at the MTC:

- NBN safety and awareness;
- Fibre-optic splicing;
- Splicing termination;
- Network testing;
- Pit and pipe work for cable haulage; and
- Units of Certificate II in Telecommunications.

Aurora will be offering the following courses at the MTC:

- Fibre-optic cable induction;
- Fibre installation for line-workers;
- Network access for fibre-optic;
- High voltage and low voltage line work;
- Switchgear operation;
- Occupational health and safety;
- Power systems safety rules;
- Service connections;
- Polarity training, and
- Pole and line inspection.

NBN DELIVERS VITAL TRAINING FOR DISABILITY WORKERS

Thu, 03 May 2012 15:17:00 +1000

New disability support workers in southern Tasmania recently benefited from a virtual induction training session delivered from the other end of the State, through the Skills Institute’s new Mobile Training Centre (MTC), connected to the National Broadband Network.

The MTC – part of the Institute’s NBN Speed on Wheels project – aims to capitalise on the roll-out of the NBN in Tasmania to trial the provision of accessible training solutions for apprentices, trainees and employers in remote locations.

Equipped with 15 computers, it will provide a model for an alternative training strategy, particularly for remote and small workplaces that often find it hard to function without their apprentices required to attend training off site.

Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White said the MTC was visiting the three stage 1 NBN areas in Tasmania – Smithton, Scottsdale and Midway Point – providing the opportunity for remote facilitation in a virtual classroom environment in areas such as horticulture, hospitality, human services and natural resources.

“Today’s visit to Midway Point will provide disability support trainees with a two-hour session conducted by Skills Institute teacher, Mark Krause, who will remotely deliver the training from Smithton,” Mr White said.

“The training will be centred on two modules from the Certificate III in Disability qualification, covering topics such as dignity and respect, behaviours of concern, communication and sexuality and intimacy, through high resolution video resources.

“In addition, a live Q & A session will be held with a group of disability support workers from the Wyndarra Community and Resource Centre in Smithton, who will share their wealth of knowledge and experience in residential and community-based care, with up to 14 OPTIA students in the South.

“As both Midway Point and Smithton are Stage 1 sites for the NBN roll-out, the speed will be fast and should cope with the virtual classroom software as well as several High Definition videos, created for this project.

“Making use of the stage 1 NBN sites around the State by means of a virtual classroom will allow this type of simultaneous audio and video streaming, live questioning and feedback, virtual blackboards, workplace simulations and linkups with industry experts.

“We believe this mobile NBN training model has the potential to showcase a new VET training strategy across the Nation and improve the VET sector generally through responsiveness and flexibility to address workforce development needs.”

The NBN project was funded by the National VET E-Learning Strategy 2012-2015 to stimulate innovative approaches using the National Broadband Network to increase participation in training and improve the skill levels of the Australian workforce.

The strategy provides incentives and support for VET providers to use the new NBN system to improve and extend training opportunities, while furthering Australian Government policy objectives for greater participation and enhanced workforce skills.

CONNECTING WITH INDUSTRY AND BUSINESS

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:13:00 +1000

Welcome to the first edition of SkillsConnect. To find out the latest developments and good news stories at the Skills Institute click here

SOUTHERN DUO WIN LEW FOWLER APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 10:11:00 +1000

Two gifted young tradesmen have received the Lew Fowler Apprenticeship Awards for 2012.

The Awards were created in 1998, following the death of Lew Fowler in 1996. Fowler was a likeable and dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Glenorchy, serving as President from 1982-83 and 1986, as well as being involved in a number of different areas of service within Rotary. He is well remembered for his work in International Service, where he assisted in many overseas projects in less developed countries, such as his visit to Papua New Guinea with wife Kaye.

This year’s recipients of the Awards, now a joint initiative between the Rotary Club of Glenorchy and the Skills Institute, are Jack Mason and Kevin Nettlefold. Jack is currently studying a Certificate III in Engineering-Mechanical Tradesperson and works at Riley Industrial Marine & Sales, while Kevin is completing his Certificate III in Engineering-Fabrication Tradesperson and works at Kings Towbars & Trailers in Moonah. The Institute congratulates them on their achievements and receipt of this prestigious award.

SKILLS HELPS INDUSTRY MAKE GAMBLING SAFER

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:54:00 +1000

With the introduction of the Responsible Gambling Mandatory Code of Practice in Tasmania on
1 March 2012, the Skills Institute is leading the nation in training provision for the gaming industry to help make gambling safer.

The Institute is the only training organisation in Australia to provide an online course, tailored specifically to update the Provide Responsible Gambling Services (e RCG) course. It provides an alternative to repeating the entire course, containing only changes to the current legislation.

Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White said the e RCG Update Course would not only make it easier for industry employers to adjust to the new Code, but would also help with the long term objective of the new regulations, to minimise harm from gambling in the community.

“We are proud to be the first in the nation to enhance existing RCG training with a special focus on identifying people with gambling problems, referral to and information on ‘Gamblers Help’, and providing players with information on the new Code of Practice,” Mr White said.

“The high-quality online training is flexible and is characterised by high-end interactivity, social networking tools, such as the RCG Facebook Group, motivational strategies and engaging multimedia inclusions.

“The course provides a highly visual and engaging resource, focusing on achieving the additional skills and knowledge required to work in this industry.”

Mr White said the e-learning course supported the goals of the Skills Institute in tailoring a service to meet exact needs and being responsive to where, when, and how industry can access training.

“The e RCG Update Course is based on a proven model in terms of flexibility and innovative learning for our students, many of whom have grown up in a digital culture, providing a sustainable approach for the future of training at the Skills Institute,” he said.

Gambling venues will be given 12 months for relevant staff to have completed the course and from 1 March 2013 at least one person who has completed the training must be on duty at all times in areas where gambling machines operate.

Participants must have completed the accredited course, Provide Responsible Gambling Services, prior to undertaking the Update Course.

The Responsible Gambling Mandatory Code of Practice was developed by the Tasmanian Gaming Commission, under the Gaming Control Act 1993 and came into effect on 1 March 2012, although some provisions will not take effect until 1 September 2012.

The aim of the Code is to make gambling environments safer and to help Tasmanians make more informed decisions about gambling.

SKILLS AWARDS CELEBRATE TASMANIAâ��S FUTURE INDUSTRY LEADERS

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:23:00 +1000

The future leaders of Tasmania’s skilled industries were recognised and celebrated last month at the 2012 Skills Institute Awards held across the State.

The annual Awards are the Institute’s way of acknowledging the high achievements of a significant and diverse group of individuals, who form a vital part of our State’s future.

We believe a highly skilled workforce will take Tasmania forward and provide numerous benefits to individuals, employers and communities across the State.

Employment-based learning – including apprenticeships and traineeships – is a crucial part of moving Tasmania forward and our award recipients play an essential role in the future of business and industry.

With continued commitment to growth and learning, each of these individuals has the potential to be at the forefront of their chosen field, inspiring innovation and growth and encouraging more people to follow their own paths to career success.

Many of our award recipients this year were also winners in the recent regional WorldSkills, which benchmarks skills achievement nationally and globally through a series of skills competitions.

The purpose of WorldSkills is to promote and build a skills respect culture by celebrating skills excellence, inspiring young people and providing them with an opportunity to showcase their trade and skill talents.

WorldSkills competitions operate on a two-year cycle, with regional competitions flowing into national competitions and the winners, if eligible, advancing to the international stage to represent Australia.

Tasmania has been involved in the WorldSkills program since its inception in 1981 and has competed in each cycle of the competition, offering around 20 different skills categories.

Our State representatives often punch above their weight on the national stage, with Tasmania winning the Evatt Shield for best performed region three times since 2001.

Through these competitions and our own annual awards, the Skills Institute is committed to supporting and enabling the State’s skilled workers to further their careers.

The collaborative nature of the partnerships between the Skills Institute and industries across the State is demonstrated in the generous donations and sponsorships of our award prizes each year.

This collaboration helps us to develop relevant and practical training for the benefit of our skilled workers and Tasmanian employers and industry.

The Skills Institute award ceremonies were held during March in Burnie, Hobart and Launceston.

JOINT SCHOLARSHIP OPENS DOORS FOR SKILLS GRADUATES

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:38:00 +1100

The Skills Institute and the University of Tasmania have partnered to provide three new scholarships available to Skills Institute graduates who wish to continue their studies in a tertiary environment.

The new scholarships provide students with HECS exemption for the length of their current study program and are eligible to anyone who has successfully completed a Certificate III or IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma at the Skills Institute.

This year’s scholarship recipients are Elleke Leurs, Tanille Hartog and Dale Sayers.
After completing her Certificate III in Aged Care, Elleke plans to study a Bachelor of Health Science. Tanille will pursue qualifications in Nursing to accompany her Certificate III in Hairdressing, while Dale plans to study an Engineering degree, which will complement his Certificates III and IV in Plumbing.

The scholarships will be awarded again in 2013 and the Skills Institute encourages anyone wishing to further their education to apply.

BURNIE AWARDS NIGHT GOES OFF WITH A BANG!

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 11:53:00 +1100

Automotive
AJL Heavy Equipment
Best First Year Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Apprentice - North
Matthew Bugg, of Tasmanian Farm Equipment

TACC
Best First Year Automotive Electrical Apprentice - North
James Stevens, of Auto Electric

Launceston Mitsubishi
Best Second Year Light Vehicle Mechanical Apprentice - North
Logan Hughes, of Arnolds Auto Care

Webster Bearing & Engineering
Best Second Year Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Apprentice - North
Ryan Lonergan, of William Adams

Skilled
Best Second Year Small Engine Mechanical Apprentice - North
Zachary De Boer, of North West Motor Cycles

Repco Burnie
Best First Year Automotive Apprentice - North West
McCauley Carse, of Somerset Discount Tyre & Mechanical

Burson Auto Parts
Best Second Year Automotive Apprentice - North West
Neville Aitken, of Burnie City Council

Automotive Service Solutions
Best Third Year Automotive Apprentice - North West
Troy Phillips, of Wiggies Radiator & Mechanical Services

Blackwoods
Encouragement Award (Light Vehicle Mechanical Apprentice) - North West
Eric Imbert, of Devonport Mitsubishi

Motorbody
Car-O-Liner Australia
Best Second Year Panel Beating Apprentice
Kieran Barnes, of Westside Smash Repairs

Brick & Plaster
Boral Australian Gypsum
Best First Year Plastering Apprentice
Myles Overton, of RD Overton Plastering

Adbri Building Products
Best First Year Bricklaying Apprentice
Reuben Flint, of Steve Flint Bricklaying

Armstrong Commercial Vinyl & MJS Distributors
Best Overall Second Year Apprentice - Floor Covering & Finishing
Stewart Kurrle, of Carpets Central

Construction
Stubbs Constructions Pty Ltd
Best Final Year Construction Apprentice - North West
Samuel Nancarrow, of JPO Building Contractors

De Jong & Sons Construction
Best Final Year Construction Apprentice (Runner-Up) - North West
Tom Robertson, of Fairbrother Pty Ltd

Fairbrother Pty Ltd
Commitment to Construction Training - North West
Jacob Clarke, of De Jong & Sons Construction

Mead Con
Best First Year Construction Apprentice - North West
Matthew Clarke, of De Jong & Sons Construction

OzHelp
Work/Life Skills Achievement Award Construction - North West
Paul Canny, of Fairbrother Pty Ltd

Furniture
Biesse Australia
Best Final Year Furniture Apprentice
Robyn Quirk, of Joinery Products

OzHelp
Work/Life Skills Achievement Award - Furniture
Garrick Fort, of Smithton Joinery

Electrotechnology
OfficeMax
Electrotechnology Encouragement Award
Leah Watkinson, of Hydro-Electric Corporation

Aurora Energy
Best First Year Electrotechnology Apprentice - North West
Shaun Lintner, of Dobson Electrical

Clipsal Australia
Best Second Year Electrotechnology Apprentice - North West
Jason Lunn, of BSH Electrical

HPM Legrand
Best Third Year Electrotechnology Apprentice - North West
Richard Habib, of Dobson Electrical

Schneider Electric
Best Graduating Electrotechnology Apprentice - North West
Toby Gibbons, of Irrigation Tasmania

AWM Electrical
Electrotechnology Encouragement Award - North West
Ben Ewington, of KW Ewington Pty Ltd

OfficeMax
Best Telecommunications Apprentice - North West
John Rand, of Rand Electronics

Metals
Skilled
Best Graduating Metal Fabrication Apprentice - North West
Joshua Young, of Besser Engineering

Tasweld
Dedication to Study in Metal Fabrication - North West
Ethan Bligh, of Caterpillar Underground Mining

Phoenix Steel Australia
Most Improved Metal Fabrication Apprentice - North West
Johnathan Bruce, of Jayben Australia

Nubco Pty Ltd
Best Graduating Sheetmetal Apprentice - North West
Joshua Boag, of Seba Sheetmetal

Central Steel Trading Pty Ltd
Most Improved Sheetmetal Apprentice - North West
Hamish Chamley, of Stainless Engineering & Design

Rotary Club of Devonport North
Dedication to Study in Fitting & Machining - North West
Benjamin Schuuring, of Murray Goulburn Co-operative

Precision Tool & Welding Supply Centre
Best Graduating Apprentice (Machinist) - North West
Joel Charleston, of Iso Tech Engineering

Cement Australia
Best Graduating Apprentice (Maintenance Fitter) - North West
Todd Munro, of Grange Resources (through Skilled)

Glazing
Bremner Glass Equipment
Glass & Glazing Encouragement Award
Peter Brix, of Dargaville Windows (through Tasmanian Building Group Apprentice Scheme)

Viridian New World Glass
Glass & Glazing Most Diligent Apprentice
Damien Barker, of Clark Windows Smithton

Tasmanian Glass & Aluminium Association
Best Overall Glass & Glazing Tasmanian Apprentice
Matthew Woodhouse, of Woodhouse Glass & Glazing

Painting & Decorating
Rokset
Painting & Decorating Best Third Year Practical Apprentice
Anthony Rankin, of Somerset Decorating Service (through Tasmanian Building Group Apprentice Scheme)

Painting & Decorating Teaching Staff
Painting & Decorating Encouragement Award
Ryan Williams, of Clarkes Painting Service

Haymes
Painting & Decorating Best Second Year Apprentice
Jayden Howes, of New Attitude Painting

Hair & Beauty
Goldwell
Award for Excellence (Hair & Beauty) - North West
Selina Maree French, of NRG Hair Room

Children’s Services
Early Childhood Australia - Tasmania Branch
Most Outstanding Children's Services Diploma Student
Donna Nibbs, of Circular Head Children’s Services

Devonport Child Care Centres Inc
Outstanding Diploma Trainee
Karla Edwards, of Footprints Educational Complex

Footprints Educational Complex
Encouragement Award - Children's Services
Mandy Ash of, Mersey Leven Child Care Services

Mining
Mancala
Best Mining Graduate - Extractive
Barry Coates, of Mancala

Grange Resources
Best Mining Graduate - Extractive
Travis Briggs, of Grange Resources

MMG / Metals and Minerals Group
Best Mining Graduate - Underground
Gareth Griffiths, of MMG Group

MMG / Metals and Minerals Group
Best Mining Graduate - Processing
Terrence Pedder, of MMG Group

Plumbing Gas Refrigeration
RACCA
Best Third Year Refrigeration Apprentice
Luke Saunders, of Bass Reefer Management

NEW PARTNERSHIP TO BENEFIT BOTH ORGANISATIONS

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:10:00 +1100

The Skills Institute and the West Coast Wilderness Railway (WCWR) were recently successful in gaining funding through the Productivity Places Program (PPP) to deliver Certificate III qualifications in Transport and Logistics (Rail Operations) and Infrastructure.

The new training services will assist track maintenance and construction workers, train drivers, firemen and duty supervisors.

Aside from the obvious benefits such as an increased capacity to develop more skilled workers, the training is vital to ensure compliance with the Rail Safety Act 2009.

Shared benefits of the partnership will include:

• A more cost-effective, timely and quality-assured training and assessment system
• Nationally accredited qualifications for employees within WCWR
• Demonstration of WCWR leadership in the industry
• WCWR maintaining the highest level of compliance with the Rail Safety Act 2009
• Utilisation of the expertise within WCWR
• Greater development opportunities across industry participation in training and validation processes
• Demonstration of the Skills Institute’s capability to work together with industry partners to achieve innovative, responsive and high-calibre learning and development programs.

TROPHIES PILE UP FOR YOUNG STAR SAM

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:55:00 +1100

After taking out a host of awards around the State, Devonport builder Sam Nancarrow has confirmed his position as one of Tasmania’s most gifted young tradesmen.

Working with JPO Builders, Sam has completed his apprenticeship and is now a qualified builder.

After being nominated by his teacher and boss Jason Overton, Sam was the recent recipient of the Skills Institute’s North-West carpenter gold award, and will compete for the state award in Launceston this week.

Sam will also travel to Sydney in September, as part of a 13-man team, to compete in the national WorldSkills Challenge. The event will pit the country’s best young builders against each other in a series of challenges to find the best of the best.

Despite having unintentionally entered the WorldSkills Challenge, Sam said he was thrilled to have been selected as the Tasmanian recipient and very excited about the upcoming challenge.

MOBILE LEARNING BOOSTS TASSIE APPRENTICES

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 11:56:00 +1100

Apprenticeship training in the workplace is set to be revolutionised by mobile training opportunities delivered via the National Broadband Network (NBN).

The NBN Speed on Wheels project, conducted by the Skills Institute in Tasmania, will see groups of the state’s apprentices training in a media-rich and dynamic e-learning environment, where the classroom comes to the student and the teacher could be anywhere. This mobile training model aims to engage apprentices by creating a learning environment that promotes innovation and capability for self-directed, lifelong learning.

In pursuing this goal, the Skills Institute expects to strengthen its training system in terms of emerging technologies and increase its capacity for NBN readiness, by demonstrating how apprentices’ learning experiences via NBN internet technology engages them more effectively, improving learning outcomes and creatively addressing the workforce development gap.

This new model of training delivery offers remote e-tutoring between individual apprentices and a teacher, as well as live group classes in a workplace delivered from a campus-based teacher through desktop virtual classroom programs or live video streaming.

While formal training is essential for apprentices to have equal work opportunities and be well rounded in their trade knowledge, apprentices are often limited in their training options due to remote locations. The need to be released from the workplace for on-campus training often also requires extensive travelling and periods away from home.

The availability of NBN allows apprentices to improve their learning outcomes with video-streaming, workplace simulations and live synchronous classes that cater for different learning styles. Significantly, this flexibility also extends to the actual qualifications that can be studied remotely, with the trial including horticulture, hospitality, human services and agriculture (dairy).

The project has been made possible through funding from the National VET E-learning Strategy, whose NBN E-learning Programs provide opportunities to create innovative approaches to demonstrate the power of broadband to enhance outcomes for learners, and promote growth in broadband-based training as the NBN rollout proceeds.

The National VET E-learning Strategy is the responsibility of the Flexible Learning Advisory Group (FLAG), a key policy advisory group on national directions and priorities for information and communication technologies in the VET sector.

HYUNDAI ASSISTS AUTOMOTIVE TRAINING

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 10:18:00 +1100

Skills Institute Automotive students can look forward to working with a new Hyundai Accent, kindly donated by Hyundai Australia for training purposes.

The car comes equipped with the latest in vehicle technology, including Electronic Power Steering and Electronic Stability Control. With engineering constantly changing in the automotive industry, the Hyundai Accent will give students the chance to view and work on the latest technology on the market.

“Automotive students will be exposed to wire corruption in the car, as well as system failure, and with the use of computer scanning tools they will be able to investigate these faults,” Automotive Unit Leader Simon Waters said.

“This will give students who work in smaller workshops the chance to be exposed to modern technology.

“As most new vehicles are sold out of dealerships, the majority with five-year warranties, most students wouldn't be able to work with them until they have aged.

“The new Hyundai will allow them to see and understand how to fix new vehicles.”

CHILDRENâ��S SERVICES RECOGNITION PROGRAM

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:27:00 +1100

While the Australian Government’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) budget initiative, to improve the quality and uptake of RPL assessments for early childhood professionals, has not long been announced, Tasmania has already made a good start with RPL thanks to the state funded Children’s Services Recognition Program, which began in 2009.

The Children’s Services Recognition Program is an initiative of the Ministerial Child Care Advisory Council, funded by the Department of Education and project managed by the Skills Institute. It provides a customised and supported journey for unqualified educators to achieve RPL as part of obtaining the Diploma of Children’s Services (Early Childhood Education and Care).

The Program has provided assessor training and support to 46 qualified educators from the Children’s Services sector to work as coaches and assessors with unqualified educators to assist them to gain recognition for existing skills and knowledge through RPL. In doing so, it has promoted an understanding of the value of RPL as the first step for experienced, skilled employees embarking on a training pathway.

Of the 135 recognition candidates , 28 have now completed the Diploma of Children’s Services, while other candidates achieved one or more units through RPL and the majority are now well on their way to completing their diplomas through a training pathway.

SKILLS INSTITUTE STAR NOW A TASMANIAN LEADER

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 07:25:00 +1100

Skills Institute Customer Relations Manager Melinda Thomas recently graduated from the Tasmanian Leaders Program (TLP), along with 23 other business and community leaders from across the State.

Each year a group of participants with high leadership potential is selected from diverse backgrounds to participate in the ten-month TLP, which aims to identify, promote and develop aspiring leaders, creating significant future benefits for both them and Tasmania.

Ms Thomas said the program had been an invaluable experience for her personal and professional development, providing insights and lessons that she would take into her role at the Skills Institute.

“One of the most valuable things I’ve taken away from TLP is learning how to encourage people to flourish, inspire creativity and identify what we need to implement now to meet the demands of tomorrow,” Ms Thomas said.

“The program has provided me with so much new information that I am forever re-adjusting my views on all sorts of things.

“This has fuelled my desire to find out more and I am now looking forward to the continuation of this journey through my role at the Skills Institute.

“Being a leader is about defining yourself, having a vision, sharing your vision with other people and then providing people with the tools and the support necessary to make that vision happen.”

Ms Thomas said the program would be hugely advantageous to her role as Customer Relations Manager, ensuring the Institute continued to deliver relevant and quality training that met the needs of industry employers.

“It is the interactions with such a broad range of people through TLP that has enabled me to understand more about other people, including a deeper understanding of what makes people achieve and how to assist them to develop their full potential,” she said.

Ms Thomas is now a member of the TLP Alumni Sub-Committee, which will see her working on community leadership, the TLP Congress and social networking opportunities for other Tasmanian business and community leaders.

BOARD OF THE TASMANIAN SKILLS INSTITUTE DIRECTOR VACANCY

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:57:00 +1100

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

TASMANIAN SKILLS INSTITUTE BOARD DIRECTOR

Operating as a Statutory Authority, the Tasmanian Skills Institute is a Government owned Registered Training Organisation that provides workforce skills development services to industry.

The seven member Board is established under the Education and Training (Tasmanian Skills Institute) Act 2008 and is appointed by the Minister for Education and Skills. The Board provides governance and direction and ensures the strategic goals, as outlined in the Corporate Plan, are met.

The Act requires that vacancies are advertised in at least three daily newspapers circulating in Tasmania.

Retiring directors may apply and, if eligible, may be reappointed.

In appointing Directors, the Minister will have regard to the need for the directors together to have:

Knowledge and skills necessary to ensure that the functions of the Skills Institute are performed competently;
Business and financial skills;
An understanding of the education and training environment and skill development needs in the community and industry.

Directors are entitled to remuneration, currently set at $17,000pa, and reimbursement of certain expenses.

Information about the Skills Institute is available on our web site or by request to Denise Collighan on 03 6336 4244.

For more information contact Malcolm White, the CEO of the Tasmanian Skills Institute. Phone 03 6336 4244.

The term of the current vacancy is one year from April 2012.

Expressions of Interest, for the Minister’s consideration, should include details of relevant experience, qualifications, and a CV, and should be forwarded by close of business Friday 2^ndMarch 2012 to:

Chief Executive Officer

Tasmanian Skills Institute

PO Box 1308

Launceston 7250

or emailed to: Executive.Services@skillsinstitute.tas.edu.au

SKILLS SERVING IT UP RESPONSIBLY

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:52:00 +1100

The Skills Institute has recently developed its long-standing course, Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (SITHFAB009A), into an online unit.

Students can receive the same training and education as the face-to-face course, all in a ‘virtual classroom’ environment.

The extensive, nationally recognised 4.5 hour course teaches participants to:
• sell or serve alcohol responsibly
• assist customers to drink within appropriate limits
• assess alcohol-affected customers and identify customers to whom sale or service must be refused
• correctly refuse to provide alcohol.

People selling alcohol in Australia are legally required to have completed an accredited RSA course.

For further details and enrolments, please call the Skills Institute on 1300 362 175.

DENTAL ASSISTANT WINS FLYING DOCTOR SCHOLARSHIP

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:09:00 +1100

Huonville dental nurse Emma Norris recently received an exciting and prestigious scholarship to work with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) in outback Australia.

Emma, 20, from Huonville is currently completing her traineeship Certificate III in Dental Assisting with the Skills Institute and is employed by Dr Chris Carr from the Huon Valley Dental Centre.

The Scholarship gave Emma the opportunity to work as an assistant to RFDS Dentist Dr Lyn Mayne, based at Broken Hill in New South Wales, flying to a number of outback locations.

After a hectic two-week schedule, Emma had gained a fascinating and rewarding insight into the RFDS and the range of functions and services it performs for people in remote Australian regions.

The Dental Assistant’s Scholarship is sponsored by RFDS Tasmania and the Launceston arm of Zonta International, and has been awarded for the past six years.

DENTAL STUDENT RECEIVES WORK & TRAINING HONOUR

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:44:00 +1100

If Calista McKinnell is any indication, the Tasmanian dental industry is in good hands.

At the 2011 Work and Training Awards held late last year, Calista won the Award for Emerging Potential in recognition of her achievements.

Skills Institute Dental Teacher Linda Thomas said Calista had been a model student since commencing her Certificate III in Dental Assisting Studies in 2010.

“It is a privilege to work with young people like Calista who are motivated, and it is a pleasure to see them receive recognition for their efforts,” she said.

After completing her traineeship in 12 months, Calista gained a permanent position with her host employer, further highlighting her professionalism and application to her studies.

SKILLS NOW MORE VITAL THAN EVER

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:48:00 +1100

With the latest unemployment figures revealing Tasmania has the nation’s highest unemployment rate, Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White spoke to the Mercury this week about the need for a well-rounded skills set and formal training.

Mr White said the demand for workers in some sectors would remain strong, however now more than ever there was a need for more trained employees in the Tasmanian workplace.

“According to Skills Institute statistics there is an increased demand for skilled labourers in the dairy, horticulture, hospitality and aged-care industries,” Mr White said.

“We have also seen a significant increase in the amount of people seeking formal barista and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) qualifications, indicating growth in the hospitality industry.

“Natural resource management, horticulture production and dairy were also cited as growth areas within Tasmania.

“Tasmania’s dairy sector was identified as an area of particular interest, and is predicted to be on the verge of a boom, with more skilled workers required particularly in the State’s North-West.”

Mr White said skilled tradespeople were still able to find work, while hairdressers and cleaners were also reported to be in demand.

“This means the demand for skills is very high and I can’t see that changing, as employers are also starting to recognise they need to train their own people,” he said.