What's happening at TAFE
TAFE Pathway to Opportunity for Top Australian Apprentice
TAFE Logs on to new system for improved training delivery
Queenslanders shine on national training stage
Skillaroos set course for Skills Olympics
Gold Coast TAFE teacher named 2007 National Horticulture Teacher
TAFE student wins corporate gift design competition
Innovative 'green' calendar wins corporate gift design competition
MSIT students begin Italian dream
Nature inspires corporate gift design award winners
Training solutions on show at business expo
Photography exhibition to raise money for breast cancer
Queensland to offer advice at business exhibition
Local Toowoomba TAFE wins Innovation in Training award
Sunshine Coast TAFE student focussed on success
Small Business Solutions wins state marketing award
Tropical North TAFE apprentices prepare for the big time
Top training award for Gold Coast TAFE
Queensland celebrates education leaders
Outstanding achievers in adult education honoured
'Never too old' to study at Gold Coast TAFE
Training leaders set to shine on state stage
Answers for adult learners at Adult Tertiary Entry Expo
State wins $73 million training contract
TAFE Pathway to Opportunity for Top Australian Apprentice
When Thomas Spottswood dropped out of university he had no idea that just a few years later he would become Australian Apprentice of the Year.
The graduate fitter and turner, who was named Australian Apprentice of the Year in a gala ceremony in Hobart on Thursday night (8/11/07), completed his apprenticeship last year at WideBay TAFE.
"I was very frustrated at university because it was all theory and bookwork, not enough practical application to the real world and my decision to switch to a TAFE course was absolutely right," Thomas said after the ceremony.
"I'm now back into my university studies and they're making so much more sense."
Thomas was employed by Wide Bay Group Training throughout his training. He is now a Project Fitter at Hyne Timber's Tuan Mill near Maryborough. His job involves finding innovative ways for the production process to become more efficient and has already designed a grading machine that sprays the ends of milled timber to display its grading.
Acting Director of Wide Bay Institute of TAFE Robyn Dyer said many apprentices found that a TAFE qualification was a pathway to more opportunities.
"Like Thomas, they can go on to tertiary studies or follow a path into supervision and management," Ms Dyer said.
Thomas said he had always been very career conscious and motivated.
Last year he was named Wide Bay TAFE Apprentice of the Year.
He said his award was 'very humbling' but also allowed him to promote the trades as a pathway to career opportunities.
TAFE logs on to new system for improved training delivery
Students and teachers throughout TAFE Queensland can now converge online through a new learning resource management system that provides an improved digital environment for innovative, flexible and responsive information sharing.
The new system will contribute to achieving the objectives of the Queensland Skills Plan by creating a modern and efficient electronic learning environment.
TAFE students can use the my.TAFE online platform to access course content, assessments, learning progress and much more.
Through the my.TAFE gateway students can also gain access to Wikis, blogs, forums, chat, email and other useful tools including virtual notebook, calendar, task lists and bookmarks.
my.TAFE provides greater flexibility in the way students undertake training and enable us to reach more students across the state.
In addition, TAFE teaching staff will benefit from the new system through ResourceBank, a learning content management system that allows teachers to generate, store and access teaching and learning resources, which are in turn accessed by students through my.TAFE.
ResourceBank provides teaching staff with efficient, user-friendly tools to create customised materials to suit students and industry.
It also enables easier resource sharing among educators across the state and reduces the development effort required by providing common tools and templates that are specifically tailored for learning resource development.
The combination of my.TAFE and ResourceBank allows TAFE Queensland to develop and adapt learning resources in response to the changing needs of its learners, clients, industry and the community and provides flexible access to these resources through collaborative online learning spaces.
The my.TAFE system is currently being established in the Gold Coast, Bremer, Metropolitan South, Sunshine Coast and Southern Queensland Institutes of TAFE and SkillsTech Australia.
Rollout to the Barrier Reef, Central Queensland, Tropical North Queensland, Brisbane North, Mount Isa and Wide Bay Institutes of TAFE will commence from January and April 2008.
Queenslanders shine on national training stage
Queensland has won an unparalleled six awards at the prestigious Australian Training Awards honouring the nation's top apprentices, trainees and vocational students, training providers and employers.
Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the success demonstrated that Queensland was setting high standards in training approaches and outcomes.
"These awards show that Queensland is right up there with the rest of the country in producing highly-skilled individuals who are well placed in the jobs market," Mr Welford said.
"These awards showcase the very best vocational education and training achievements from around Australia."
Queensland winners in the individual awards were:
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Thomas Spottswood (Maryborough), Australian Apprentice of the Year
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Selena Smith (previously of Townsville), Vocational Student of the Year
Queensland winners in the industry awards were:
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John Love Electrical (Maroochydore), Employer of the Year
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Gladstone Schools Engineering Skills Centre (Gladstone), VET in Schools Excellence Award
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Main Roads/Myuma/Seymour Whyte Constructions - The Split Rock Inca Alliance (Mount Isa/Camooweal), Australian Training Initiative Award
John Love Electrical was also presented with the Electrocomms and Energy Industry Award.
Mr Welford said the Australian Training Awards were presented at a ceremony in Hobart last night.
"The awards acknowledge the contribution of apprentices, trainees, training providers and employers to vocational education and training and skills development in the workforce," he said.
"Eleven Queensland entries were in the finals, chosen from more than 500 submissions at the state competition.
"Our apprentices, trainees, employers and training providers should all be very proud of their achievements.
Mr Welford said Queensland leads the nation in the number of people taking up apprenticeships.
"With our infrastructure and resources booming, we want to ensure local businesses and industries can continue to thrive with workers equipped with world-class skills and training."
Nominations for the 2008 Queensland Training Awards will open in February 2008. For information, visit www.qta.qld.gov.au or telephone 1800 660 207.
2007 Australian Training Awards - Queensland winners
Australian Apprentice of the Year
Thomas Spottswood (Maryborough)
Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering (Mechanical Fitting and Turning)
Training provider: Wide Bay Institute of TAFE
Employer: Wide Bay Group Training Scheme Ltd
While completing a Certificate III in Engineering, Thomas worked at Hyne Timber, where he is now employed as a Project Fitter. His apprenticeship gave him a practical understanding of engineering, preparing him for further studies at university. Thomas ultimately hopes to become a leading engineer and was recently selected in the Queensland State of Origin Oztag team.
Vocational Student of the Year
Selena Smith (previously of Townsville)
Training provider: Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE
Qualification: Diploma of Visual Arts
Completing a Diploma of Visual Arts has allowed Selena to build her own skills and share them with others. After gaining employment in Townsville City Council's cultural development section, Selena was able to display her creative talents and enrich the community through her love of colour therapy and conducting children's art classes. Selena is now working as a freelance artist and has sold her work across Adelaide, Canberra and Townsville.
Skillaroos set course for Skills Olympics
The Queensland members of Australia's "Skills Olympics" team will be officially farewelled today ahead of their departure for the international finals of WorldSkills 2007 in Shizuoka, Japan.
Skillaroos team members Kim Harrison, Chris Hopkins, Paul Neumann and Lachlan Thomas will be presented with part of their official team uniforms at a ceremony at SkillsTech Australia's Acacia Ridge campus at 4.30pm today (5 November) by the Member for Algester, Karen Struthers.
Education and Training Minister Rod Welford, who is unable to attend the presentation, also wished the team members well for the finals.
"The WorldSkills competition is a great opportunity for Queensland to show its skills development credentials to the rest of the world," Mr Welford said.
"The $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan is leading the way in developing a vocational education and training system that is capable of providing best practice training for young Queenslanders.
"SkillsTech Australia is already at the forefront in technical and trades training in areas such as automotive, building and construction, manufacturing and engineering, electrical and electronics studies."
Kim Harrison will be competing in the Graphic Design Technology category, Chris Hopkins will be competing in the Joinery category, Paul Neumann will be competing in the Sheetmetal Work category and Lachlan Thomas will be competing in the Refrigeration category.
WorldSkills 2007 will run in Shizuoka, Japan, from 14-21 November.
The biennial event is the world's premier skills excellence competition, covering 24 skills categories ranging from hairdressing and bricklaying to web design and auto repair.
Over 200,000 spectators are expected to watch as more than 850 competitors from 48 countries compete for the honour of being named the world's most skilled nation.
Australia currently holds the ninth place rank in the world.
For more information on WorldSkills 2007 go to www.worldskills2007.com.
Gold Coast TAFE teacher named 2007 National Horticulture Teacher
Gold Coast TAFE Horticulture teacher, Silvino (Ben) Balaba has been named one of three Australia's top rural educators at the inaugural 2007 Rural Trade Teacher of the Year Awards.
Ben was chosen from an exceptional field, with nominees representing a cross section of courses, learning institutions and States.
Ben takes home $10,000 in prize money, half of which will go towards his developmental education project.
Mr Balaba said it was a great honour to receive this prestigious award and it was one of the best things that had ever happened to him.
"This is recognition of the great achievements of the horticulture sector, TAFE Queensland and the supportive work environment at Gold Coast TAFE.
"This award has no meaning without the most important group, the students in horticulture at Gold Coast TAFE, both past and present, who continue to inspire me to stay in the industry and make teaching and training most satisfying and rewarding," he said.
Acting Institute Director, Mr Peter Mitchell said Ben was regarded by his peers, students and industry as dedicated to achieving excellence in teaching and committed to skilling and encouraging the next generation of agriculture teachers.
"Ben also takes on the role of mentor to his students in their on-the-job experiences, always encouraging further professional development and higher learning.
"The Institute is very impressed with Ben's developmental project which is to document diverse horticultural practices and skills of refugee communities in Southeast Queensland.
"Ben will then integrate the findings into the TAFE Queensland competency framework whilst identifying any gaps for additional education and training.
"Ben is also presently working towards a Doctorate thesis on the 'TAFE-Horticulture Teachers' Conceptions of Curriculum Changes in Queensland' which includes investigations of the historical evolution and evaluation of TAFE Horticulture curriculum," Mr Mitchell said.
The Awards, run by the National Farmers' Federation (NFF) in conjunction with the Institute for Trade Skills Excellence, aim to raise the profile of rural trade skills teaching and its importance to rural communities.
They also provide recognition and reward for exceptional trade teachers.
TAFE student wins corporate gift design competition
There's an old saying that the art of creation belongs not just to the creator, but to the spectator who brings the creation to life.
For local graphic design student, Dave Kan, there is truth in this saying.
The twenty-one year-old from Corinda recently won cash and prizes valued at $4000 in a statewide corporate gift design competition for his unique design of a set of beverage coasters named Bon-Yi, inspired by Queensland's native Bunya Pine.
"Sometimes I find more satisfaction in the way a creation is received than in the creation itself," Dave says.
"It could be anything from designing a logo to a three-dimensional object like the Bon-Yi piece. It's extremely rewarding when other people appreciate something I've thought up or contributed ideas to."
The 2007 Queensland Aspects competition was open to TAFE students and teaching staff across the state.
Dave's design, which took our top honours in the student category, captures the essence of the native Bunya pine's cone through a series of stained and textured octagonal wooden coasters which, when assembled, forms an attractive table ornament.
"It's a great honour to win, but the presentation at Parliament House was quite nerve-racking," Dave said.
"It was very professional and I was really impressed with the quality and attention to detail in the other entrants' work.
"All the praise and support was very humbling, it was almost overwhelming. It made everything feel more worthwhile than when I was toiling away in the backyard making the coasters."
As a design student at The Bremer Institute of TAFE, Dave says he enjoys the freedom of being able to think outside the box and experiment with a range of different styles and approaches.
"TAFE has been a great experience. The graphic design facilities are top notch.
"Sometimes creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things in a different way and I would like to thank my teacher, Steven Hamer, for challenging me through the conceptualisation stage.
"I'm very passionate about art, design and music. I think it's the fact that there are endless possibilities in the creative world that makes it so exciting.
As for what the future holds, Dave says that updating your goals is a key part of open-mindedness.
"It's important to have clear goals, but I think in order to be successful you've got to adapt to different circumstances and challenges. I suppose the one goal I will always have is to be able to look back and be really satisfied with what I've accomplished.
"I've applied for the Bachelor of Design course at Griffith Uni, but if I don't end up there I'll probably do a combination of work and travel. I'm putting the prize money towards my travel savings and it'd be great to go and work overseas one day."
The Queensland Aspects exhibition can be viewed from October 17 to 31 at Education House foyer, 30 Mary Street, Brisbane or online at the TAFE Queensland website www.tafe.qld.gov.au
Innovative 'green' calendar wins corporate gift design competition
Central Queensland Institute of TAFE teacher and freelance designer, Julie Robertson, has put her design skills, passion for photography and desire to promote a 'greener' future to good use.
Ms Robertson, of Yeppoon, entered the 2007 Queensland Aspects corporate gift design competition and won the $2000 teaching staff prize for her perpetual calendar.
The calendar celebrates the beauty and diversity of Queensland while considering environmental sustainability.
"This competition was of great interest to me because much of my career has been focused on corporate design," Ms Robertson said.
"My decision to participate actually came while I was encouraging my students to enter the competition and explaining what a valuable learning experience it would be."
The environmental focus was an important consideration for Ms Robertson when designing her winning concept.
"The environment is our future and must be cared for. It is encouraging to see that an increasing number of people understand this and are integrating recycling and conservation into their everyday lives," she said.
"Given that the design would ultimately be used as a corporate gift, I saw it as an opportunity to gently encourage business and organisation leaders to do the same.
"It was also important that the product itself be environmentally responsible, so the production of the calendar will utilise various 'green' printing techniques to greatly reduce its impact on the environment."
Ms Robertson began her teaching career in 2004 and is committed to expanding her industry experience in the area of graphic design.
"I enjoy finding and experimenting with new software and design techniques and passing on this knowledge to my students to encourage them to exercise their creative energy and push the boundaries of their work.
"Often students are not aware of their own capabilities and helping them learn new skills and realise their potential is extremely rewarding. Hearing of students' successes after graduating makes the effort very worthwhile for me.
"Being a teacher has allowed me to develop myself as a freelance designer in a variety of areas and to work on projects that promote awareness of social and community issues. Using my skills and experience in this way has been very fulfilling and it's an area that I intend to pursue."
The Queensland Aspects exhibition can be viewed from October 17 to 31 at Education House foyer, 30 Mary Street, Brisbane or online at the TAFE Queensland website www.tafe.qld.gov.au
MSIT students begin Italian dream
Two Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE (MSIT) fashion design students are on their way to the world-renowned Polimoda Institute in Florence, Italy, after being presented with scholarships at this year's ModaItalia event on the 10 October.
Maricel Cabig was awarded the six month MSIT Italian Scholarship for her dedication to her studies, her focus on her career direction and her stunning fashion collection.
Megan Todd collected the 2007 ModaItalia Scholarship after presenting a collection described by the judges as "outstanding".
The scholarships were presented at the culmination of a spectacular evening showcasing the work of MSIT fashion students.
"Winning this award has shocked me," said Maricel.
"Studying in Italy will be a dream come true for me. As a fashion student, Italy is such an inspirational country and truly is the world centre of style.
"So few people ever get an opportunity as fantastic as this and I intend to learn everything I can from it," said Maricel.
Maricel was presented with her award by Andrew Kalinowski of the Colorado Group, major sponsors of the MSIT Italian Scholarship.
Megan attributed her success not only to her own hard work, but also to her fellow students at Metropolitan South.
"Without the support of my fellow students at MSIT, I would not have won this award. They supported me every inch of the way.
"The teaching staff at MSIT have also been an inspiration to me. Without their dedication and help I would never have been on my way to Italy," said Megan.
Megan's award was presented to her by Dr Francesco Capecchi, the Italian Consul for Queensland and the Northern Territory.
The ModaItalia event, hosted by the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Qld) together with MSIT was a sell out event with over 350 people attending the parade held at the Old Museum Building in Brisbane.
The previous evening (9 October), MSIT students held their annual end of year fashion parade 'Transition' also at the Old Museum, with four students receiving accolades for their outstanding work.
From nearly 60 students showcasing their designs in front of a crowd of industry professionals, family and friends, Hayleigh Bartels, Stephen Harrison, Elizabeth Addicott and Maricel Cabig received awards.
Hayleigh Bartels received the QCWA Piece Makers bursary as a talented student from a rural background. Hayleigh received $500 towards her Advanced Diploma studies at Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE.
Stephen Harrison took out the Millinery Award for his display of advanced technical skills in the development and creation of exceptional headwear pieces.
Elizabeth Addicott received the Westfield Carindale Marketing/Merchandising Award for her display of exceptional skills in the development and presentation of fashion, retail and merchandising marketing concepts. Elizabeth was presented with a $500 Westfield Carindale shopping voucher.
The Bernina Industry Choice Award went to Maricel Cabig for her collection displaying creativity, wearability and market potential. The award, a Bernina Overlocker, was presented by Brisbane designer Paul Hunt, a judge of the Industry Choice award.
Metropolitan South TAFE Institute Director Linda Brown said the students' success was a reflection of the institute's commitment to providing the highest level of training.
"This year the collections created by our fashion students were nothing short of spectacular," Ms Brown said.
"The creativity and craftsmanship, evident in all of the students' garments, was outstanding.
"While all students demonstrated a passion for their craft, their training at MSIT provides a further edge with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the practical elements of fashion design such as pattern making, production and design.
"Providing students with such a holistic experience ensures they have the necessary skills required by today's employers," Ms Brown said.
Nature inspires corporate gift design award winners
Queensland's unique natural beauty and diversity has inspired the winners of a statewide competition to design corporate gifts for visiting dignitaries.
Member for Aspley and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education, Training and the Arts, Bonny Barry, presented the 2007 Queensland Aspects awards in a ceremony at Parliament House today.
"The Queensland Aspects awards are a celebration of the creative talent of TAFE students and teaching staff across the state," Ms Barry said.
"The entrants were required to create a corporate gift with broad client appeal reflecting a unique aspect of Queensland, suitable as a souvenir for visiting dignitaries, business leaders and international VIPs.
"Graphic design student David Kan, from the Bremer Institute of TAFE, won the student category for his design of a set of beverage coasters inspired by Queensland's unique native bunya pine.
"Mr Kan, of Corinda, receives $2000 and a tailored business and training package for winning this category.
"Central Queensland Institute of TAFE graphic design teacher Julie Robertson, of Yeppoon, won the $2000 teaching staff prize for her perpetual calendar that celebrates the beauty and diversity of Queensland while considering environmental sustainability."
Highly commended for their designs were Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE student Ellen Appleby, of Noosa Heads; Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE student Christina Carlowe, of Alexandra Hills; Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE student Shirley Dawes, of Warwick; and Southbank Institute of Technology student Anna Lang, of Carina.
Minister for Education, Training and the Arts Rod Welford said supporting training for the creative arts industries was a priority for the Queensland Government.
"As part of the $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan, we have established an Industry Skills Alliance to work with the creative industries," Mr Welford said.
"The Creative Industries Skills Alliance is an autonomous industry body that will address skill shortages and assess future skills demand.
"The alliance will receive $770,000 over three years to identify skill shortages, plan for future needs, promote creative industries to schools and regional Queensland and improve overall workforce capability."
The Queensland Aspects exhibition can be viewed from October 17 to 31 at Education House foyer, 30 Mary Street, Brisbane or visit the online exhibition.
Training solutions on show at business expo
"TAFE Queensland plays a strong role in skilling the state for its future and staff will be attending the exhibition to offer expert advice about TAFE's customised training solutions and nationally recognised qualifications," Mr Welford.
The Minister said the two-day event, from 18-19 October at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, would showcase a range of products and services designed to help businesses grow and succeed.
"Whether your business goal is to train staff at a convenient place or increase productivity, improve performance and profitability, TAFE delivers tailored training and business mentorship across a broad range of industries," Mr Welford said.
"TAFE Queensland is the state's largest provider of vocational education and training and has a long track record of working with Queensland businesses.
"One of TAFE's major advantages is its flexibility. TAFE provides responsive training designed to meet the needs of the business and individuals.
"This specialised approach gives businesses a competitive edge and helps to prepare their workforces for changing needs and future growth."
Mr Welford said with nationwide skills shortages affecting more and more Queensland businesses every day, the re-skilling of existing employees was an increasingly important tool in ensuring continued business success.
He said some of Australia's leading companies had entrusted their industry training to TAFE, including Boeing Australia, Palazzo Versace, CSR Sugar, Big W, Harvey Norman, Comalco Aluminium Ltd and Herron Pharmaceuticals.
"TAFE's training can occur in the workplace, online, in virtual classroom and in TAFE's state-of-the-art training facilities like restaurants, workshops, simulators and salons," Mr Welford said.
Small Business Solutions, a new State Government initiative, will also be showcased at the expo, which is open 10am to 6pm on Thursday 18 October 2007 and 10am to 5pm on Friday 19 October 2007. For more information about ABDE visit www.abde.com.au
Photography exhibition to raise money for breast cancer
If you love top class fashion photography and glamorous clothing created by some of the region's best designers, be sure to check out an exhibition featuring the work of two Sunshine Coast TAFE photography students.
Entitled Framed, the exhibition will open in Pelican Waters at Club Pelican at 6.30pm on Thursday, October 25 and will showcase the work of Shannon Jeffrey and Lauren McFaul.
Shannon and Lauren have been busily travelling throughout the region snapping locals, mainly in portrait and glamour style, and will submit around 30 photographs as part of their exhibition.
Shannon said one of the highlights of the exhibition would be a fashion parade on opening night along with a number of fundraising events for breast cancer.
"We decided to use our event to fundraise for the Think Pink breast cancer campaign because this is a very deserving charity doing very important work," Shannon said.
"We have also organised for some of the Sunshine Coast TAFE fashion students to model their fantastic creations on opening night to continue the fashion theme of our exhibition."
Sunshine Coast TAFE photography team leader Maurice Mahady said student exhibitions were an important part of leaning all aspects associated with becoming a professional photographer.
"Sunshine Coast TAFE photography student exhibitions are always very popular with members of the public and they also provide our students with practical skills that they will use when they graduate," Mr Mahady said.
"Our students consistently win state and national photography awards and many former students now have highly successful careers working as professional photographers in Australia and other parts of the world."
The Framed, photography exhibition will open at the Pelican Waters Golf Club at 6.30pm on Thursday, October 25 and will also feature fashion parades and fundraising for breast cancer.
The exhibition will run until the afternoon of Sunday October 28th and all photography is for sale.
TAFE Queensland to offer advice at business exhibition
TAFE Queensland invites businesses to attend the Australian Business Development Exhibition 2007 (ABDE) on 18 and 19 October 2007 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
ABDE is a business solutions exhibition designed to help businesses grow and succeed.
The two-day event offers free educational seminars and will focus on business efficiencies, cost savings, what's new on the market and more.
TAFE Queensland will be available to provide information and advice on their tailored training solutions, services and facilities.
TAFE Queensland is the state's largest provider of vocational education and training and has a long track record of working with Queensland businesses.
The exhibition is open 10am to 6pm on Thursday 18 October 2007 and 10am to 5pm on Friday 19th October 2007.
For more information about ABDE visit www.abde.com.au.
Local Toowoomba TAFE wins Innovation in Training award
The Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE has won the prestigious Department of Local Government, Planning, Sport and Recreation Award for Innovation in Training, part of the annual Be Constructive Training Excellence Awards.
The award presented at the Brisbane Convention and Entertainment Centre on Friday, 21 September 2007, recognises the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE's commitment to applying new ideas and technological advances to old methods of training, as well as displaying the flexibility and creativity required for today's workforce.
The Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE was acknowledged for its operation and delivery of training by adopting an onsite training model for employers, an electronic management system for students and a mobile training lab allowing students to drive the learning at their own pace.
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE representative, Kylie Lee said it was an honour to win the award at the industry's most prestigious night.
"The regions skill shortage required us to review our training and we have received fantastic feedback and results from our students, so we're delighted to be formally recognised for our efforts," said Ms Lee.
Rod Camm, CEO of Construction Skills Queensland, congratulated the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE on its outstanding win and contribution to training in Queensland.
"This year's awards highlight the achievements of those committed to training excellence in Queensland's building and construction industry," said Mr Camm.
"It is encouraging to see the nomination numbers grow each year. These awards are just one way the industry acknowledges and congratulates its stakeholders for the dedication shown."
The Local Government, Planning, Sport and Recreation Award for Innovation in Training was one of ten award categories presented this year.
Sunshine Coast TAFE student focussed on success
Sunshine Coast TAFE student Anna Ósk Erlingsdóttir is making a habit of winning major photography awards.
The 35-year-old photography student, originally from Iceland, recently won first prize in a national student photography competition.
Anna's latest success with the camera came when she impressed the judges in the Ilford Photography Competition and was awarded $300 for a digital portrait shot of a fantasy lady wearing white make-up and white silk.
For her efforts Anna will also receive $100 worth of Ilford photography products and her pictures will be published in Ilford's own magazine.
Anna's impressive photography portfolio also includes two silver awards in the national Australian Institute of Professional Photography Awards (AIPP) and one silver in the Queensland AIPP competition.
Anna has also exhibited at the Powerhouse Museum in Brisbane and some of her work has been selected to be published in a book by photography company Fuji.
An international student originally from a small fishing village in Iceland, Anna said she entered the Ilford competition simply to see if she could win.
"It was really as simple as that and now that I have won I will concentrate on finishing my TAFE course and when I graduate I hope to become a professional photographer in Australia," Anna said.
"The other big thing for me at the moment is my photography exhibition which will be held at Café Envy in Cotton Tree from October 14 when I will be exhibiting with another student."
Sunshine Coast TAFE photography team leader Maurice Mahady said Anna was a committed student who was heading towards a career as a highly successful professional photographer.
"Anna deserves to be very proud of herself because she has worked very hard entering various competitions for which she has been justly rewarded," Mr Mahady said.
"We congratulate Anna on her most recent success and wish her well for her approaching exhibition."
Small Business Solutions wins state marketing award
The Small Business Solutions initiative has been announced the winner of the 2007 Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) Queensland division Awards for Marketing Excellence in the education category.
The awards highlight both private and public sector marketing excellence with category winners eligible to compete on the national level.
Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE Institute Director Linda Brown said she was proud of the achievement and said the recognition at Friday's awards further highlighted the positive impact good research, communication and education can have on business outcomes.
"I'm honoured the Small Business Solutions initiative and MSIT team have been acknowledged at the prestigious awards valuing marketing excellence," Ms Brown said.
Launched earlier this year the Small Business Solutions project has assisted over 220 small businesses and is set to help 750 businesses by the end of this financial year.
Ms Brown said the Small Business Solutions service provided valuable mentoring and support to businesses that need help to grow an already viable business or solve a particular small business challenge.
"It isn't just for struggling small businesses, it will also benefit small to medium enterprises (SME) to increase their productivity and bottom line," she said.
Small Business Solutions was set up to assist small businesses enhance business skills, profitability and growth with the assistance of one on one mentoring from experienced small business professionals.
Ms Brown said current Small Business Solutions users have reported highly encouraging results with many seeing almost immediate improvement to their bottom line.
"The initiative was developed in direct consultation with business owners.
"We've been so successful because we've really listened to small business owners needs and are being very proactive and personalised in the training and services we provide," she said.
The initiative was launched in March 2007 with the help of small business expert David Koch with an integrated marketing communications strategy incorporating traditional advertising means such as radio, press and outdoor billboards as well as public relations, online, multi-media direct mail pieces and retail.
"The Solution Found promise of the Small Business Solutions brand is living up to its name as we've already re-registered a number of clients for further mentoring sessions," she said.
Small Business Solutions enables mentoring and training at the workplace and incorporates individualised Business Health Checks to help identify training gaps and opportunities the small business owner can leverage from.
Small Business Solutions mentors are trained and assessed through Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE as the lead institute in training and assessment.
The program also allows access to a range of nationally accredited formal qualifications through Metropolitan South TAFE and uses specialised assessors to allow some business owners to fast track their path to qualifications through the recognition of prior learning process.
The initiative was piloted in Brisbane and has now expanded into Townsville and the Gold Coast with the state wide roll out expected within 12 months.
Small businesses currently involved in the initiative include husband and wife teams and businesses with less than 20 employees.
Small Business Solutions is a Smart State initiative developed by the Department of Education and Training in conjunction with TAFE Queensland and Skilling Solutions Queensland.
For further information about Small Business Solutions contact the customer service centre on 1300 40 60 80 or visit www.smallbusinesssolutions.qld.gov.au.
Tropical North TAFE apprentices prepare for the big time
Four of the far north's best hospitality apprentices will represent Queensland at national cookery and bakery competitions in Sydney this week, in a bid to cement the region as Australia's culinary capital.
Tropical North Queensland TAFE bakery apprentices Tracy Dunlop and Gerard Sykes will compete at the national Bakeskills final and cookery apprentices Brianna O'Reilly and Sophie Gray will compete in the prestigious Nestlè Golden Chefs Hat final.
Both competitions form part of the Fine Foods Australia exhibition being held at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre from 24 - 27 September.
Tropical North Queensland TAFE Acting Institute Director Ron Todd, in congratulating the students, said the competition presented an excellent opportunity for tropical north Queensland to once again compete on the national stage.
"All four apprentices are very good at what they do and I know they will represent the region with distinction," said Mr Todd.
"To compete at a national level is nothing short of outstanding and we are very proud of what they have achieved thus far, both for themselves and the region's hospitality industry."
Although apprentice Tracy Dunlop said she was nervous about the competition, she was feeling quite confident about her team's chances.
"I'm really looking forward to competing against the best in my field," said Ms Dunlop.
"I guess I'm a little nervous but we are very well prepared thanks to the help of our bakery teacher and team manager Peter Waters."
The students have been preparing for the national competitions at the Cairns TAFE campus under the instruction of TAFE teachers Peter Waters, Brian Down and Jos Thys.
The apprentices won the right to represent their state at the Queensland Bakeskills and Nestlè Golden Chefs Hat finals held earlier this year. The teams will depart Cairns this weekend.
TAFE Media contact: Graeme Nielsen 0439 791 594
Top training award for Gold Coast TAFE
The Gold Coast Institute of TAFE has been recognised as one of the state's best training organisations, taking out the Public Training Provider of the Year award at the annual Queensland Training Awards.
Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said Gold Coast Institute of TAFE was one of 11 awardees in the State Government's longest running awards program.
"It is a tremendous honour to be recognised at this level and with more than 500 entries across the 11 categories, competition was very strong," Mr Welford said.
"Queensland is booming in its infrastructure and resources sectors, and these awards show the great work that is being done to ensure local industries and workers can remain competitive with world-class skills and training."
Mr Welford said Gold Coast Institute of TAFE demonstrated the strength of local talent which was highlighted through the awards in a host of industries, from health care and hospitality to carpentry and creative arts.
"Gold Coast Institute of TAFE is the Gold Coast's largest provider of vocational education and training with five campuses at Coolangatta, Ashmore, Ridgeway, Southport and Coomera," he said.
"The Institute's courses are designed in association with business and the community, ensuring students graduate with industry-relevant vocational skills and knowledge.
"Gold Coast Institute of TAFE strives to be internationally recognised as an innovator in the design, assessment and delivery of vocational skills, business solutions and strategies for life long learning.
"The work they are doing is important because it helps people at a personal and professional level, while supporting the local area and ultimately the state's economy."
Gold Coast Institute of TAFE will now compete for a place at the Australian Training Awards in Hobart on 8 November.
For a full list of award winners, visit www.qta.qld.gov.au.
Queensland celebrates education leaders
Leaders from Queensland's international education and training institutions are being applauded at a ceremony at Parliament House last Thursday for their outstanding contribution to the industry.
The annual Celebrating International Education and Training Industry Showcase publicly recognises innovative programs developed in the Smart State for international students, industry staff and for Queenslanders studying overseas.
Premier and Minister for Trade Peter Beattie said the awards were presented in seven categories and the winners were shining examples that others can learn from.
Mr Beattie said this year's showcase was a testament to the industry's achievements over the coming year and highlighted its commitment to building its reputation around the world.
"International education and training is Queensland's third largest services export industry and brings an estimated $1.469 billion per annum to the State economy," Mr Beattie said.
"In 2006, more than 61,000 international students chose to study in Queensland and this event shows why - because Smart State institutions and individuals are leaders at creating a really positive learning experience," he said.
"The benefits that flow on are not just economic either. International students make an important academic and cultural contribution to our multicultural State and Queenslanders and Queensland are all the richer for it."
Minister for Education and Training Rod Welford said the success of Queensland's international education and training sector was the result of long-term planning by the State Government and a very talented local industry.
"Sustaining this success into the future will depend on our ability to understand, improve and promote the student experience so the role of the awards showcase is all the more important," Mr Welford said.
"The awards also highlight what can be achieved when the industry and government work together, delivering outcomes that result in improving the international reputation of our knowledge industries."
International Education and Training Industry Showcase 2007 results
Innovation and Creativity in the Learning Environment
Recognising best practice in developing and implementing innovative and creative student centred approaches to the design and/or delivery of international education and training services.
Winner: Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE
Partnerships for Positive Outcomes
Recognising best practice in working in international partnership to bring mutually beneficial economic and/or cultural outcomes through international education and training activities.
Read the full ministerial release on International Education and Training Industry
Outstanding achievers in adult education honoured
Queensland's outstanding achievers in adult education have been presented with awards, as part of Adult Learners' Week.
Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the awards were presented in a ceremony at the State Library in Brisbane on Sunday 2 September.
"These awards are a great pat on the back for adult learners, adult education teachers, tutors and providers of community learning programs in Queensland," Mr Welford said.
"Adult education for some people can be a life-changing event - it can provide a better quality of life or provide training for a job or new career.
"Understanding English, building literacy and numeracy skills, strengthening employment capabilities are all important steps to improving the quality of life for individuals."
Mr Welford said adult education was also important in addressing Australia's skill shortages.
"Last year, our Government launched the Queensland Skills Plan, an initiative which aims to overcome the skills challenges facing our major industries," he said.
"As the Smart State, it is important for us to continue to encourage all Queenslanders to embrace ongoing learning and up-skilling throughout their working life as a response to changing skills needs.
"An awards program like this is a great way to raise the profile of adult learning and make people aware of the many opportunities available to them."
Adult Learners' Week is an initiative of Adult Learning Australia in partnership with the Queensland Government and the Federal Government.
Read the full ministerial release on Adult Learners' Week.
'Never too old' to study at Gold Coast TAFE
Gold Coast Institute of TAFE student David Hearn was 'over the moon' after he was one of four people to graduate in his Certificate II in Access 10 course.
In October 2005, David Hearn retired only to be told that he wasn't old enough to get the old age pension.
David was then forced to go to Centrelink to look at his options and ended up on the Newstart program.
David first had a taste of study when he undertook an adult literacy and numeracy program in 2006 but he wanted to further improve his spelling and maths so he decided to enrol in the Access 10 course.
David said going to TAFE was very different to the correspondence schooling he undertook as a child while living at Toganmain sheep station on Hays Plains.
"I found the TAFE teachers very supportive and if you put your head down and did the work nothing was ever too difficult for them.
"I am very pleased with myself as I would go home and do hours of study and it just shows hard work pays off in the end.
"I loved maths and science but found English the hardest.
"I am now undertaking a business administration course as I really like working on computers and dealing with people" he said.
Gold Coast TAFE Institute Director, Deb Daly, said the Access 10 course at Gold Coast TAFE served an important role in the community.
"The course is designed for people who for one reason or another haven't had the chance to complete Year 10 and they want to prepare for further study.
"Our Access 10 teachers are very special and provide a supportive environment to bring the best out in students such as David.
"David is to be commended for his positive attitude and hard work he applied to his studies," Ms Daly said.
Media contact: Vicki Blaxell on (07) 55 818 801 or 0408 755 763
Training leaders set to shine on state stage
Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said 33 finalists from across Queensland had been chosen from more than 500 entries across 11 categories.
"The impressive quality of entries certainly reflects the strength of our skills in Queensland," Mr Welford said.
"The awards have shown there is a lot of great work being done in fields as diverse as visual arts, hospitality, information technology, trades and health care, and it is no surprise that we are setting the bar high for the rest of the country.
"More people are taking up apprenticeship and traineeships in Queensland than in any other state, with a nine percent increase here compared to the national growth of 1.7 per cent.
"Our Government's recently announced Train to Retain Action Plan is helping ensure apprentices and trainees complete their qualifications to keep our workforce skilled"
Public Training Provider of the Year
Gold Coast Institute of TAFE, Southport
Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE, Mount Gravatt
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE, Tooowoomba
To read the full media release and list of finalist, visit www.qta.qld.gov.au
Answers for adult learners at Adult Tertiary Entry Expo
TAFE Queensland will exhibit career and course options for adult and mature age learners at the Adult Tertiary Entry Expo (ATEE) on 22 August 2007.
Staff from TAFE Queensland, Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC), universities, private education colleges and other student support services will be on hand at the Expo to offer advice to adults returning to tertiary study or adults considering study for the first time.
The Expo will include an information seminar providing advice on QTAC applications and entry procedures, qualifications, entry pathways and life as a student.
The Expo is open from 11-3pm and 4-6pm at Brisbane City Hall.
For more information visit the Adult Tertiary Entry Expo.
State wins $73 million training contract
The state's position as a world-class training provider has been reaffirmed with the Beattie Government winning a $73 million contract to deliver international training in the Pacific.
Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the contract would deliver Australian-standard training through the Australia-Pacific Technical College.
"This win confirms the high standard of vocational education and training that is being provided in Queensland and internationally," Mr Welford said.
"It is the largest international training contract ever undertaken by my department and demonstrates our capability to develop international education and training partnerships and alliances."
The Australia-Pacific Technical College is an Australian Government initiative, announced by the Prime Minister in 2006. The Australian Government has committed almost $150 million over four years to deliver vocational education and training to Pacific Island students. Graduates will be qualified for essential skilled jobs needed through the region.
"Through a competitive tender process across Australia, the Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE was awarded a contract to design three schools for the Australia-Pacific Technical College," Mr Welford said.
"The TAFE will deliver training in automotive, construction and electrical, and manufacturing trades over three campuses based in Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Fiji, as well as workplace training in 11 other Pacific Island countries.
"Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE has strategically positioned itself as a leading provider of vocational education and training internationally.
Read the ministerial release on the Government's international training contract.