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SpArtA 2008 Awards Winners & Acknowledgements
Awards Winners
1. NMIT OUTSTANDING VOCATIONAL STUDENT OF THE YEAR ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Sue Ferrari - Diploma of Arts (Studio Textile and Design), South West TAFE
"For me achieving success in textiles is a personal goal. It validates my passion for craft that has existed with me for over 20 years. I still have the same enthusiasm for art as I had when I was in Year12 many years ago."
For Sue Ferrari the path to becoming an artist had to wait until the demands of full-time parenting and dairy farming could be overcome. Sue used the time spent on her Diploma to forge relationships with professional artists and further developed her skills in sculptural textiles by attending specialist workshops. In 2007, Sue was awarded the Peter Lucas Memorial Art Award at South West TAFE which enabled her to hold a solo exhibition at Beach Head Gallery, Warrnambool the following year. Sue achieved distinctions for almost all the units she completed and was also the recipient of the South West TAFE Vocational Student of the Year Award in 2007.
Finalists:
Alice Audrey Wilkinson - Diploma in Make-Up at Victoria University
In 2007 Alice completed a Diploma in Make-Up at Victoria University (part of the Screen and Media Training Package). She is currently enrolled in a Certificate III in Hairdressing to achieve her dream of working in the entertainment industry as a professional makeup artist and hair stylist.
After leaving school before completing VCE Alice worked in the pharmacy and cosmetics industry for many years before deciding to make a career switch. Alice thoroughly researched her options before changing her career and sought advice from head of makeup at Channel 10 and others before commencing studies at Victoria University.
Alice has received numerous "wins" since commencing in her new career. She was awarded the "Outstanding Student of the Year Make-Up and Hairstyling" from Victoria University TAFE in 2007 and "Vocational Student of the Year "from Victoria University TAFE in 2008.
Alice has already established herself in a highly competitive industry, having secured six months full-time employment as a Wig Dresser for the musical "Guys and Dolls". Before this she landed paid work with Opera Australia and worked on productions including Don Giovanni and Tales of Hoffman and Alcina.
Aiden Kongas - Advanced Diploma in Multimedia at Bendigo Regional Institute of TAFE
Aiden recently completed an Advanced Diploma in Multimedia at Bendigo Regional Institute of TAFE (BRIT) and due to outstanding ability automatically secured a position as Web Designer/Developer with STA Travel in Abbotsford. Aiden's application is supported by his Manager, STA Travel who describes Aiden as talented, technically skilled and an "excellent employee", who is an asset to the company.
During his studies Aiden displayed a "meticulous attention to detail" and produced work of an "incredibly high standard". Prior to completing his studies, Aiden volunteered at Channel 31 and SYN FM where he gained invaluable experience in camera work, directing, creating graphics and animation and radio hosting.
2. SERVICE SKILLS AUSTRALIA OUTSTANDING VOCATIONAL STUDENT OF THE YEAR - SPORT & RECREATION
Winner:
Simon Blake - Diploma of Outdoor Recreation, Swinburne University of Technology, TAFE Division
Simon has shown himself to be an outstanding student consistently demonstrating high achievement in facilitation, situational leadership, conflict resolution and group management.
He has done extensive voluntary work with young people in Kenya and Zimbabwe and given his time as a sports coach for an Australian not for profit organisation. He currently has community involvement with Typo Station in the Victorian High County working with long term unemployed young men.
"The biggest achievements working and studying in the outdoor profession come at random moments, when I am able to make a connection with a student, or allowing a breakthrough to happen. Being able to get students to step out of their comfort zone to challenge themselves and push through their fears."
Simon achieved high grades in Film and Television school, and made various short movies made of adventures in Africa. He made a few different length movies for Oxfam working as a cameraman and editor. This contributed to his knowledge in the use of video and still cameras to produce films/slide shows of the activities in the Diploma of Outdoor Recreation, and to assess techniques and faults of participants in activities.
Finalists:
Clare Louise Redshaw - Diploma of Sport & Recreation/Diploma of Event Management - Homesglen Institute of TAFE
Since completing the Diploma in 2007 Clare has gained full time employment as the youth recreation officer at the Mordialloc Community Centre.
"This course provided me with a wide range of knowledge in the fields of sport and recreation and event management. I have gained business management skills in finance, reporting, marketing and team building, planning and correspondence skills".
Clare was awarded the outstanding student award for 2006 and 2007 within the Diploma of Sport and Recreation/Diploma of Event Management, which followed on to her being nominated for the Homesglen Outstanding Student Award (Diploma Category).
Clare coaches children in sport and she sets an example to younger students and coaches who may want to continue onto senior coaching and administration positions. She demonstrates the pathways that can be taken to a successful career. Clare has also established a mentoring program for senior high school students in her area. She is a leader and motivator for young people.
Jacqueline Anderson - Diploma of Sport & Recreation Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE
Jacqui displayed drive, discipline and passion during her time studying for her Diploma. She overcame many challenges while she was studying including coping with a chronic health condition, travelling long distances to attend classes, and supporting herself financially by working two jobs.
She was successful in gaining an early offer and is now studying for a Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation full time at LaTrobe University.
Whilst studying for her Diploma she showed natural leadership abilities and at times would assist other members of the group who may be having difficulties with a project. Academically she scored extremely well.
She completed field work with the YMCA in a school program and Body Power personal training. She assisted a coaching program at a primary school and assisted facilitation of primary school Rugby League programs with the Melbourne Storm.
Jacqui was awarded GOTAFE's 2007 Outstanding Student of the Year at Wangaratta Campus.
3. SERVICE SKILLS AUSTRALIA TRAINEE/APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR - SPORT & RECREATION
Winner:
Sam Spicer - Certificate II in Sports Officiating, Swinburne University of Technology
Sam undertook his Certificate II in Sports Officiating with keen enthusiasm. Sam consistently performed at a very high level resulting in the completion of his studies well within the timeframe of the traineeship. Since completing his Traineeship, Sam has been successful in securing a position as umpire with the Victorian Football League (VFL).
During his rural location, Sam undertook to use mentors within his own umpiring association to meet training requirements. Sam is extremely self-motivated and driven, actively building networks and attending workshops to further his knowledge and skills. He has an engaging personality that inspires others to achieve.
Since completing his Traineeship in 2007, Sam decided to commence in a Diploma of Sport and Recreation in Shepparton and has temporarily deferred his work commitments with the VFL.
Finalists:
Chris Soderstrom Certificate 111 in Sports and Recreation - Trainee
Chris is currently completing a Certificate III in Sport and Recreation through AFL Sports Ready at host employer, Nicholson Media Group, an award winning small business that publishes Australian Tennis Magazine.
Chris is following a passion to become a sports journalist as a means of combining his shared loves - sports and writing. The traineeship has proved to be an invaluable experience in gaining training in this area and has provided Chris with the opportunity to try his hand at sports writing and have his work published in the Australian Tennis Magazine. In addition to contributing articles to the magazine, Chris is also responsible for daily maintenance and regular news updates to the company website.
As a means of supplementing his writing skills, Chris has been actively developing his skills in photography and provided his own photographs to complement his articles.
Other duties at Nicholson Media include temporarily taking over the role of Advertising Manager in a staff member's absence and working in the Accounts Department. Highlights of the role include acting as an ambassador for the company in press conferences during the Australian Open and interviewing world famous professional tennis players. The Managing Director of Nicholson Media Group, Michelle Michie, describes Chris as "an exceptional young man with a clear focus on learning and reaching his full potential".
Ryan Cossens - Certificate III Outdoor Recreation - School Based New Apprentice
Ryan is currently enrolled in a Certificate III in Outdoor Recreation with Swinburne Institute of Technology with host employer, Mowbray College
Whilst working at Mowbray College, Ryan is largely required in the camp preparation for Outdoor Recreation. He attends camps and school events as an Assistant Outdoor Education Leader. Ryan finds working as an apprentice at his own school particularly rewarding. The whole experience has shown him just how independent he must be in an adult world.
"Through this I have gained practical employability skills and just as importantly began networking contacts in the outdoor recreation industry. I am in the process of applying for an outdoor recreation GAP year in South Africa. Mowbray College supports a sister school in Nepal and every year a group of students go to this school on a service project - at the end of the year I will be going on this trip. I organised fundraising at Mowbray College to go towards electricity for the Nepalese school's village".
Ryan has been a member of the Scouting Movement since 1997 and is working towards his Queen Scout Award.
He believes that the Australian School-Based Apprenticeship System is an ideal option for students whom aren't academically inclined, or don't want to pursue university education.
4. VERVE TRAINEE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR - ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Penny Etheridge - Certificate IV in Broadcasting (Television) - Gordon Institute of TAFE
After completing her VCE, Penny was offered a traineeship at The Tribe Film & Television Production Company. After completing her Cert IV in Broadcasting in 2007 she gained employment writing and producing a variety of television shows for international distribution at The Tribe. She also contributes to a new internet based TV channel GOTV.
Penny displays passion and consistently demonstrates a high level of skill in production and writing.
Whilst studying she was involved in a community production for the Borough of Queenscliffe in collaboration with another Gordon Institute student. They produced a DVD for the Queenscliffe Visitors Information Centre.
Penny was nominated for the Geelong Regional Trainee of the Year award in 2008.
Finalists:
Alex Tuckett - Advanced Diploma of Professional Game Development - Academy of Interactive Entertainment
Alex is a highly gifted and articulate student. Aside from the high calibre of his coursework, Alex also assists and tutors other students, both during classes and out of hours for students doing other courses.
Alex volunteers at all Academy of Interactive Entertainment related events, always ready to help where necessary.
He is also the winner of the 2007 Sony scholarship and the high quality of his work has won him places at several industry events.
Ellie Harvey - Certifcate III in Library/Information Services
Ellie is a college student at Kilbreda College, Mentone. She is managing a heavy Year 10 workload whilst undertaking the Library/Information Services course. She attends classes outside of school hours and applies herself diligently and willingly participates in group discussions.
Ellie works regularly in the school's library. Always punctual and well presented her manner with clients is professional and she makes every attempt to provide the required service.
Ellie's Information Technology skills are well developed and she has a good understanding of the library software program. She stands out with her quiet confidence, maturity and competence in all tasks.
5. VAEAI INDIGENOUS VOCATIONAL STUDENT/TRAINEE OF THE YEAR - SPORT & RECREATION AND ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Karen Lovett - Certificate I in ATSI Arts Certificate II in ATSI Arts - Kangan Batman TAFE
Karen has completed a Certifcate I and II in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts at the Indigenous Education Centre at Kangan Batman TAFE. She is currently studying a Certifcate III, with a view to eventually completing her Diploma. She is a mature age student and has assisted younger students within the learning environment and shared a knowledge and wisdom of age.
Karen has exhibited her work on a number of occasions, and as part of this has provided written information to further explain the indigenous symbols used. This has exposed her work and concepts to a wider range of people.
Part of her career plan is to become a professional artist and teach and educate younger people about art. As part of this plan she has presented to schools - specifically in regard to her exhibition entitled ‘Bunjil Dreaming'.
Extensively involved in her local indigenous community through the Gunung- Willam-Balluk and participates in all major cultural events.
Winner of Arnold Davis Award at Kangan Batman TAFE.
Finalists:
Rory Smeaton - Certificate III in Community Recreation - Swinburne University
After Rory successfully completed the Certificate III in Community Recreation he agreed to participate in a pilot project (AFL Sportsready First Stop Project) and he has now become a spokesperson for this project.
He has strong team skills which developed into a mentorship to younger trainees within his group. Rory's communication skills are outstanding with him presenting to large groups with confidence and ease.
He has a high level of maturity and responsibility and has enrolled to do a Certificate IV in Youth Work.
Rory assists with training and mentoring new indigenous trainees by highlighting his journey through his experience, and hopes to be able to continue his training in fields to assist indigenous youth.
He won a VCAL state government award for his work in personal development during his VCAL.
Emily Falla - Community Radio Broadcasting and Certificate III in Business - Kangan Batman TAFE
Emily's interest lies in the education of indigenous people and this is the why she has chosen to work in an educational sector. She would eventually like to become a teacher and has plans to begin her Certificate IV in Workplace Training.
At Kangan Emily has assisted in the recruiting, planning and implementing of the Certificate II in Broadcasting.
Currently employed at Kangan Batman TAFE in post trainee employment.
Has begun an initiative to organise lunches to reward and recognise students.
Contributes to Koori Radio Station as a Radio Show Host in a weekly 2 hour time slot
Member of the Victorian Indigenous Youth Advisory Council.
6. BOX-HILL INSTITUTE OF TAFE INDIGENOUS VOCATIONAL TRAINING INTIATIVE OF THE YEAR - SPORT & RECREATION AND ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Swinburne Institute of Technology, TAFE Division- First Stop Program
Building on Indigenous Strengths: Using a Sport and Recreation Community Enterprise Project to improve educational and employment outcomes for Indigenous Young People
First Stop is a youth education, training and employment service based at Swinburne that successfully responds to the needs of marginalised Indigenous youth, through developing individualised pathways and plans, and implementing innovative training models. Swinburne's First Stop Program has combined with AFL Sports Ready to develop Indigenous Australian School Based Apprenticeship programs in Sport and Recreation. One of the finalists in the VAEAI Indigenous Vocational VET Student/Trainee category in the SpArtA Awards, Rory Smeaton is a successful graduate of the program who was awarded 2007 VCAL Student of the Year at his Secondary College after completing the First Stop program.
The program has led to improved school retention rates, increased vocational educational and employment outcomes and has fostered better self esteem, social interaction and communication skills amongst participants. The program developed other partnerships to allow participants to get involved in a wide range of activities from the Long Walk, the Australian Basketball Championships, Crocfest and Koorie Night Markets in Darebin, giving young people at risk the opportunity to connect with a broad range of networks and individuals.
The project has been awarded the winner of the 2008 Group Training Australia Partnership Award by Group Training Australia. Project partners included Outer East and Gateway Local Learning and Employment Network, Box-Hill Senior Secondary College, Basketball Victoria, the Electrical Trade Union, Indigenous communities and individuals and Global Roots TV.
Finalists:
Koorie Heritage Trust
Koorie Heritage Trust has developed training programs that address existing training gaps in a range of growth industries. The Trust has a commitment to being flexible in the delivery of all training and will respond to feedback from industry sectors and the Victorian Koorie Community.
The Koorie Heritage Trust is in a unique position to offer training that is both culturally appropriate and workplace driven. The Trust is a key community organisation that has been operating for over 21 years, and is recognised nationally and internationally as a leader in business, the arts, tourism and self-governance.
The Koorie Heritage Trust recently became a registered training organisation so that it could participate fully in the vocational/educational sector, and thereby improve employment options for Koorie people. Its ongoing work allows it to protect, preserve and promote the living culture of the Indigenous people of South-Eastern Australia.
In 2008 the Trust was successful in securing PETP funding to deliver the Certificate III in Arts Administration and allocated ten full-time training places. Currently the program is being undertaken by 12 members of the Trust's staff who were seeking to gain formal accreditation for their industry skills. Elective streams of the program include Marketing and Events, Tourism and Cultural Interpretation and Retail
Gunung-Willam-Balluk Learning Centre Kangan Batman TAFE
The Gunung-Willam-Balluk Learning Centre achieved the Wurreker Victorian Training Provider of the Year Award in 2007 and continues to strive for outcomes that exceed government benchmarks. In 2007 for example the centre achieved record delivery of over 117,000 student contact hours, making it the largest provider of Koorie VET Programs in Victoria.
The beautifully designed centre reflects Indigenous cultures from across Victoria and runs a range of training initiatives that have either a cultural or recreational focus, or incorporate these as pathways to other vocational areas. Currently the centre is going through a transition to an on-line learning environment and using the social networking site Bebo as a means to connect with students. The use of new technologies recognises the industry need for graduates in ICT and Multimedia but also the fact these skills are required as a central employability skill.
7. VERVE VET IN SCHOOLS EXCELLENCE AWARD - SPORT & RECREATION AND ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Smart Connection Company
Smart Connection Company is a niche private training provider specialising in the community recreation area. They piloted a school based training programme in 2006 with 4 students at 1 secondary college, this has grown to 39 students across 15 schools undertaking VCAL, VET and VCE courses at both Year 11 and Year 12. They anticipate having over 100 students in Melbourne and throughout Victoria in 2009.
One of the benefits to employers of their course is the embedding of Austswim qualifications into the Cert III Sport and Recreation qualification. This is designed to take advantage of the shortage of swim school teachers available to the industry.
An indication of the success of the programme is that every employer involved with work experience placements has asked for further trainees to be placed at their organisation in the future.
The programme has been broadened to also include relevant units of competency from the Certificate III in Fitness. As the course is fully funded and the students continue their studies at school, this has proved to be a tremendous employment pathway for young people interested in getting into the recreation sector.
Finalists:
School Libraries Association (SLAV) Library Traineeship / Certificate III in Library Information Services
This program grew out of discussions between representatives of the Industry Training Board, the School Library Association of Victoria and the Australian Library and Information Association, and gained the support of Swinburne University of Technology and Jobs Plus Apprenticeship Service.
It has been identified that there will be a shortage of library staff in the next 5 to 10 years and that this will provide good employment opportunities. This initiative therefore aims to engage with young students interested in libraries and ICTs and also meet the staffing needs of schools themselves. It is hoped that the interest engendered by the workplace experience may encourage the students to undertake further formal study in the library and information area.
The program enables students to undertake Certificate 111 in Library Information Services as a school based traineeship or school-based apprenticeship. The qualification is undertaken in Years 11 and 12 while the student is enrolled in VCE or VCAL.
Swinburne University of Technology offers customised workplace training supported with online learning using WebCT, and workshops and classes at suitable times. Each student has an individual training plan which will be supervised by the Swinburne training staff who believe that maintaining communication with the individual student is vital to ensure a positive learning experience and outcome
Teacher-librarians in schools do understand how the system works and also have an immediate need for trained and skilled personnel.
Continued support of and publicity for the program from the School Library Association of Victoria via its journals, website and branch meetings will ensure that awareness of the program continues from year to year. The interaction of the members themselves via the association's branch network will also offer a ‘word-of-mouth' endorsement of the initiative and of its positive impact upon students involved. In this way, demand for the program will continue and its long term sustainability ensured.
AusMusic
AusMusic is a private Registered Training Organisation, established in 1989 to create music industry training programs aimed at young people aged 14-21. AusMusic has been heavily involved in the creation of the relevant Training Packages. They have developed training plans, resources, support material and assessment tools, with a particular emphasis on the VET in Schools qualifications - Certificate II in Music Industry (Foundation), Certificate III in Music and the Certificate II in Music Industry (Technical Production).
Training pathways include Performance & Composition: Technology; and Business. Training opportunities include workshops at studios and recording sessions and discussions and interactions with many high profile industry experts.
AusMusic runs a forum for educators, students and the music industry. Up to 3,400 artists, mainly school students from around Victoria, perform over a 9 day period.
The courses are integrated into work activities and include real hands on experience to reinforce the theory based learning. The program develops skills in innovative ways such as working on local music and performance events, setting up and operating a recording studio, running a record label and managing local bands.
In 2003 there were 1,007 students involved in the VET in Schools program. In 2008 this has increased over 57% to 1,583 students and the number of schools involved has also increased substantially with 74 now involved across the state. Past students have won many awards including the Premier's Award and the National VET Prizes.
8. SKILLS VICTORIA VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR - SPORTS & RECREATION AND ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Box Hill Institute
Box Hill Institute of TAFE is a vibrant, innovative place to work and learn. They deliver a broad range of vocational, education and training services in the Sport & Recreation and Arts & Culture sectors, from Certificate I to Bachelor Degree.
Box Hill were given delegated authority to self accredit, and the first self-accredited course came from the Arts & Culture sector, the Diploma of Textile Arts. They achieved the highest rate of RPL in the state.
For the second year in succession their achievements were honoured with the Education Award at the Governor of Victoria Export Awards. They also won for the second year in a row the Award for Excellence in a Large Business at the Whitehorse Business Awards. Box Hill Institute are considered to be one of the best education exporters in Australia.
Individual students and staff were recognised in a range of state and national awards including, Victorian Training Awards; International Film Music Critics Association Awards; Australian Wool Fashion Awards; L'Oreal Paris Fashion Week; and the Kaiserman Jewellers Award.
They currently cater for a broad range of learners, groups and learning styles. This includes equity groups. They maintain a culture of excellence and innovation in the development of new ideas and approaches to education and training, including technologies such as e-learning, and operational and educational effectiveness. In 2007 they created a new Institute-wide model in delivering Blended Learning and continued to offer a range of delivery choices to clients, and within this framework an eLearning strategic plan was designed.
The Institute has shown expertise in designing highly complex, logic-based solutions for client needs. With over 40,000 students and 1,000 staff, an ongoing challenge is to support the growth of truly flexible learning choices for staff and students.
Activities are underpinned by a rigorous quality framework created in line with the Institute's strategic objectives. Additionally they utilise many quality assurance, quality control and continuous improvement processes. The Institutes RPL rate is the highest in the state at 7.4%. RPL across the Institute is led by the Creative Industries Centres, with this process being identified as best practice by external auditors and has been adopted as the Institute standard.
The latest report from the TAFE Student Outcomes Survey (NCVER) found that Box Hill Institutes graduates exceeded the state and national average with 91.7% of graduates being employed or undertaking further study.
Box Hill now has campuses serving the Sport & Recreation and Creative industries in campuses in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
They also have a range of VET in Schools programs with over 1,140 students at 114 secondary schools.
Finalists:
Swinburne University of Technology TAFE Division
Swinburne University has a reputation for providing career-oriented education, with 98% of our TAFE graduates employed or in further study. It is one of Victoria's largest TAFE's delivering almost 10 million student contact hours with more than 43,000 student enrolments annually across 6 metropolitan campuses. Their vocationally oriented courses include graduate certificates, advanced diplomas, diplomas, certificates, traineeships, apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, VCE and access programs and customized programs.
The Sport and Recreation Network in the Department of Health, Recreation and Human Services, is responsible for the delivery of a stream of courses developed for people in the Sport and Recreation industry. The Department is well regarded for its range of Sport and Recreation programs, ranging from courses in sports administration, management, coaching and development to outdoor recreation. It is made up of 6 different networks, 2 of which are the Sport, Recreation and Fitness Network and the Outdoor Recreation Network.
Swinburne University of Sport and Recreation, was developed as an innovative response to the impact of the Federal Government's Voluntary Student Union legislation. Swinburne University Sports program is branded Swinergy. Its mission states; "Swinergy is an educational & training centre with a mission to provide innovative quality training and education in Sport, Recreation and Fitness. Our team is also committed to the fundamental goal of improving the fitness and health of the Swinburne University Community through the provision of a dynamic sporting, recreation and fitness service".
Swinergy provides 4 key service areas to Swinburne University and the community:
University Sport, Health & Fitness, Recreation Programs and Training & Education.
The Swinergy training initiative is operating within a dynamic environment of vocational training and sport and recreation service delivery to over 50,000 TAFE and university students and staff, in a multi-sectorial, multi-campus tertiary institution.
The Outdoor Recreation Network has developed unique and long term training partnerships with significant industry providers. Swinburne TAFE and The Outdoor Education Group have had a longstanding partnership of over 12 years.
Over 400 students have graduated from Swinburne's Outdoor Recreation Courses which are based at Eildon and Healesville.
HALLS Outdoor Education partnership (traineeship). Over 28 trainees have enrolled in the Certificate III in Outdoor Recreation each year. Students work in various outdoor industry organisations throughout Victoria, whilst undertaking training with Swinburne and Halls Outdoor Education as they complete their traineeship.
Other projects include involvement with the 12th FINA World Swimming championships; The International Rules for Schoolchildren involving 12 primary schools; an MOU with the Victorian Institute of Sport; membership of the Outdoor Recreation Council of Victoria and the Victorian Outdoor Education Association; and partnerships with Melbourne Storm Life Skills Program.
Koorie Heritage Trust
The Koorie Heritage Trust became a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in 2007.
As an RTO, the Trust aims to deliver nationally accredited qualifications to the Koorie community and the broader non-Koorie community.
The Trust has identified key areas of training to focus on over the next 5 years, and is working alongside stakeholders to develop training programs that address existing training gaps and growth industries. The Trust has a commitment to being flexible in the delivery of all training and will take directions in response to feedback from Industry sectors and the Victorian Koorie community.
The Koorie Heritage Trust believes that it is in a unique position to offer training that is both culturally appropriate and workplace driven. The Trust is a significant organisation in the Koorie community organisations sector, operating for over 21 years and nationally recognised as a leader in business, the arts, tourism and self-governance.
The move to become a registered training organisation is seen as an opportunity to participate fully in the vocational education sector as a Koorie community organisation, to improve employment options for Koorie people and to obtain greater financial independence to allow the trust to continue it's work towards the protection, preservation and promotion of the living culture of the Indigenous people of South-Eastern Australia.
A 2008 training initiative is the Certificate III in Arts Administration. The Trust was successful in securing PETP funding to deliver this qualification to 10 fulltime applicants.
The KHT Training Unit designed a workplace program, based on the delivery of formal workshops, tutorial sessions and the implementation of personal learning plans for each participant.
The nature of the workplace, current work duties and career and pathway planning, directed the participants in the selection of electives. From this process emerged themed clusters of electives including: Marketing and Events, Tourism and Cultural Interpretation and Retail.
During training assessment tasks are negotiated in consultation with the Training Unit manager to ensure training meets industry guidelines while reflecting individual needs. All training and assessment has been designed to support a workplace that is made up of staff from diverse cultural backgrounds and ages each with specific learning needs.
The Trust currently has a combined SCH enrolment of approximately 6500 made up of Koorie staff from the KHT. They also have a growing waiting list of students from outside of the organisation wanting to commence these qualifications.
Indigenous communities are requesting training by The Koorie Heritage Trust which can be delivered from an industry perspective, addressing cultural protocols and issues that are culturally sensitive and specific. Koorie artists and community members are requesting access to their cultural material, histories and traditional designs to enrich their practice. We believe that The Koorie Heritage Trust is in a unique position to meet these needs in the coming years.
The programs aim to deliver training that engages and increases Koorie participation at all levels of training, supports workplace learning and assessment and works towards long term economic outcomes for communities based on capacity building from within.
9. SKILLS VICTORIA VOCATIONAL TRAINING INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR - SPORT & RECREATION AND ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Kangan Batman TAFE: Graphic Arts and Multimedia Department. HEX course delivery model and Multimedia Re-engagement Program.
Department teachers developed the HEX model to re-engage students, maximize resources and develop a more collaborative teaching environment.
The training delivery model differs from the usual structure in a number of ways. For example, it has 6 terms in the calendar year and each term is composed of 6 weeks (a Hex), so that students don't have an 18 week semester studying just one particular unit or subject.
Students attend 6 classes per week spread over 4 days and only 3 subjects are taught a week to lessen the workload. Each subject is taught twice a week. Workshops of 1 or 2 weeks occur between each Hex so that students can complete or begin assessments.
Teaching timetables are created for the whole year with different teachers rotated through workshops and students knowing in advance what commitments they have. In addition teachers deliver 24 hours per week with 3 of these hours being "banked" for a variety of support roles.
Students can begin the course at any Hex point during the year and the full diploma takes 20 months compared with previously 24 months.
Over 90% of units are supported with online resources, and, the model uses a true Competency Based Training arrangement where assessment is available to students from the beginning of the unit.
So far the model has been applied to the Intermediate VCAL, the Cert IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Multimedia and the Cert IV in Printing & Graphics Arts, with more than 80 new enrolments in 2008. The Hex model is being considered for the whole ICT department in 2009.
Finalists:
The Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE).
Innovative training programs in a niche area.
Since its establishment in 1996, the Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) has earned much recognition as Australia's premiere educator for the Game Development and 3D Digital industries. AIE campuses in Canberra and Melbourne continue to supply these industries with high levels of graduate employment and student satisfaction.
AIE provides cutting-edge, specialised, hands-on training, through industry-focused education that are nationally accredited and recognised throughout Australia. AIE graduates continue to be instrumental in building the games, entertainment and related industries in Australia and can be found working in some of the world's fastest growing studios.
As well as a commitment to the development of the computer games and interactive entertainment industries, AIE provides graduate placement support.
A range of courses are delivered in 3D animation and computer programming. Recent innovations include the Endorphin - Academic Partner Program and their Women in Games - Access and Equity Initiative. In these programs the state of the art Endorphin animation tool is being delivered, and conferences such as "Game Girls", networking and mentoring are used to encourage and support young women into the sector.
The Melbourne campus was established in August 2006, and AIE has now formed alliances with other institutions both in Australia and overseas to promote and develop best practice training within the industry.
In 2007 AIE won the Australian Small Training Provider of the year award.
Open Channel: The Open TV Initiative
Open Channel is a membership based, not for profit business, funded by the Australian Film Commission and Film Victoria. It is also a member of Screen Development Australia (SDA), a national network supporting the development of an innovative and diverse screen industry in Australia.
Open Channel assists in growing the film, television and multimedia industries, by offering a wide variety of support, training and networking to aspiring and emerging film makers.
The Open TV initiative combines a Cert III in screen programming with an industry based project. The basic production skills needed to produce television are learnt through a real world industry based project, producing a six part series for screening on Melbourne's community broadcaster C31. This prepares students for the realities of the television production industry, by having students work to real industry pressures such as program deadlines and broadcast standards, and also exposing their work to live audiences.
The 2007 OPEN TV program was a huge success, reaching an average of 35,000 viewers a week, and reaching up to 70,000 viewers at one point. The student producers of the 2007 program put together a range of shows within Open TV, including art show Gallery Hopper, youth chat show Ultimate Celebrity Fanclub, and lifestyle show parody Stay Away. Since the completion of the 2007 course, around half of the participants have remained involved in the production of other programs on C31 as crew members, and one student is currently in pre-production on a new lifestyle series for the broadcaster Ride to Work.
10. SWINBURNE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, TAFE DIVISION EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD - SPORT & RECREATION AND ARTS & CULTURE
Winner:
Outdoor Education Group
Founded in 1984, the Outdoor Education Group (OEG) is an independent non-profit organisation with 71 partner schools and tertiary institutions as clients. They teach 20,000 students on adventure based outdoor experiential learning courses, ranging from 2 to 33 days in length. Operating in Victoria and NSW, OEG employs 150 to 180 staff and have as many as 120 field staff employed on busy weeks. The budget of $1.1million for training includes pre service delivery for Swinburne students.
The training strategies for OEG include, training experienced educators and/or outdoor education people to be leaders at OEG. Running training courses that "walk the talk" of the company and deliver training that is based upon the model of experiential learning. All new staff will experience a 9 day journey based expedition in a semi remote region modeling what OEG attempts to do with its client schools.The delivery and assessment of technical and facilitation/education skills are combined.
During 2008 the Teaching and Learning Department (T&L) set out to redesign all of its training for staff, with the aim of having all training meet AQTF standards.
All staff training has been mapped to the Outdoor Recreation Training package.
Each training program modelled an 11 day journey based program, encompassing a 4 day canoe journey down the Murray, a 4 day bushwalk in Eildon National Park and a 3 day white water rafting program on the Goulburn River. The training endeavoured to develop leadership, problem solving, sound judgment and good risk management skills.
The evaluation of the program has provided valuable suggestions for future improvements. In addition trainers will be provided with 5 days of professional development to upgrade their skills in education delivery and further technical training.
Exciting potential future business has been identified with William Angliss TAFE, Victorian Police Search & Rescue Squad and the Australian Defence Forces, Adventurous Training Unit.
Finalists:
Kilbreda College
An outstanding example of a partnership between a university and a secondary college can be seen at Kilbreda College, Mentone. It has produced a first in library skills education. The College has an innovative program for Year 10 students, training them towards a Certificate III in Library/Information Services.
Kilbreda College focuses on a broad academic curriculum and also provides extensive VET and VCAL programs.
The Certificate course is being undertaken in partnership with Victoria University as part of their VETiS (Vocational Educational and Training in Schools) program.
Ten girls have been chosen to participate in the programme, undertaking their studies over and above their normal Year 10 activities.
An external view beyond the school environment has been facilitated through visits to the MCG Library and to the State Library of Victoria.
This program is being conducted with the full knowledge that participants may not necessarily follow a career path in Librarianship. In essence it has two objectives; to gain a certificate that will provide a 10% enhancement on their ENTER score at VCE, and to greatly enhance students' skills and knowledge in the use of libraries and library systems. Already the students have come to realise the future value of these skills when they reach university.
Nicholson Media Group
Nicholson Media Group is a niche publishing company, which produces Australian Tennis Magazine, one of Australia's most highly awarded publications. The company is committed to providing training opportunities for people wishing to enter the areas of publishing, journalism and sports administration. Through a range of formal traineeships and extensive work placements, over the past decade alone, the company has assisted over 60 people into getting a successful start into fulltime work in these industries.
Nicholson Media Group was honoured to be named as Victoria's Best Small Business Training Provider of 2004 in the state's prestigious Training Awards. Since then, its trainees have also been noted for excellence in several ways with last year's trainee, Matt Jones being named a finalist in the State Trainee of the Year Awards, being named Student of the Year in the Sparta Awards, and also winning Trainee of the Year 2007 in the AFL SportsReady Trainee Awards. Their current trainee Chris Soderstrom is also a nominee in several awards for 2008.
For over ten years, the trainee placement at Nicholson Media Group has been supported by the AFL SportsReady infrastructure, which makes the training process do-able for even a very small business. The connection through to the university and TAFE sector is vital to the success of the training processes, which provide the young person with a challenging balance of formal study and learning on-the-job
Nicholson Media Group's successful training programs show what is possible when industries decide to partner effectively with the tertiary sector in order to train their own people. In the current climate of skills shortages, this has never been more important.
Outdoor Education Group
Founded in 1984, the Outdoor Education Group (OEG) is an independent non-profit organisation with 71 partner schools and tertiary institutions as clients. They teach 20,000 students on adventure based outdoor experiential learning courses, ranging from 2 to 33 days in length. Operating in Victoria and NSW, OEG employs 150 to 180 staff and have as many as 120 field staff employed on busy weeks. The budget of $1.1million for training includes pre service delivery for Swinburne students.
The training strategies for OEG include, training experienced educators and/or outdoor education people to be leaders at OEG. Running training courses that "walk the talk" of the company and deliver training that is based upon the model of experiential learning. All new staff will experience a 9 day journey based expedition in a semi remote region modeling what OEG attempts to do with its client schools.The delivery and assessment of technical and facilitation/education skills are combined.
During 2008 the Teaching and Learning Department (T&L) set out to redesign all of its training for staff, with the aim of having all training meet AQTF standards.
All staff training has been mapped to the Outdoor Recreation Training package.
Each training program modelled an 11 day journey based program, encompassing a 4 day canoe journey down the Murray, a 4 day bushwalk in Eildon National Park and a 3 day white water rafting program on the Goulburn River. The training endeavoured to develop leadership, problem solving, sound judgment and good risk management skills.
The evaluation of the program has provided valuable suggestions for future improvements. In addition trainers will be provided with 5 days of professional development to upgrade their skills in education delivery and further technical training.
Exciting potential future business has been identified with William Angliss TAFE, Victorian Police Search & Rescue Squad and the Australian Defence Forces, Adventurous Training Unit.
Koorie Heritage Trust
The Koorie Heritage Trust became a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in 2007.
As an RTO, the Trust aims to deliver nationally accredited qualifications to the Koorie community and the broader non-Koorie community.
The Trust has identified key areas of training to focus on over the next 5 years, and is working alongside stakeholders to develop training programs that address existing training gaps and growth industries. The Trust has a commitment to being flexible in the delivery of all training and will take directions in response to feedback from Industry sectors and the Victorian Koorie community.
The Koorie Heritage Trust believes that it is in a unique position to offer training that is both culturally appropriate and workplace driven. The Trust is a significant organisation in the Koorie community organisations sector, operating for over 21 years and nationally recognised as a leader in business, the arts, tourism and self-governance.
A 2008 training initiative is the Certificate III in Arts Administration. The Trust was successful in securing PETP funding to deliver this qualification to 10 fulltime applicants.
The KHT Training Unit designed a workplace program, based on the delivery of formal workshops, tutorial sessions and the implementation of personal learning plans for each participant.
The nature of the workplace, current work duties and career and pathway planning, directed the participants in the selection of electives. From this process emerged themed clusters of electives including: Marketing and Events, Tourism and Cultural Interpretation and Retail.
During training assessment tasks are negotiated in consultation with the Training Unit manager to ensure training meets industry guidelines while reflecting individual needs. All training and assessment has been designed to support a workplace that is made up of staff from diverse cultural backgrounds and ages each with specific learning needs.
The Trust currently has a combined SCH enrolment of approximately 6500 made up of Koorie staff from the KHT. They also have a growing waiting list of students from outside of the organisation wanting to commence these qualifications.
Indigenous communities are requesting training by The Koorie Heritage Trust which can be delivered from an industry perspective, addressing cultural protocols and issues that are culturally sensitive and specific. Koorie artists and community members are requesting access to their cultural material, histories and traditional designs to enrich their practice. The Koorie Heritage Trust is in a unique position to meet these needs in the coming years.
Acknowledgements
Student Support
This year's SpArtA Event would not have been possible without the creative direction and organizational support provided by students and their teachers. Verve would like to thank in particular, Bronwyn Strempel, NMIT Diploma of Arts Student and Steve Pascoe, Rachel Crowley and Dr Colleen Morris, NMIT; Rob Apps and the Kangan Batman TAFE Certificate IV in Sport & Recreation (Events Management stream) students, Christina Marmara, Aimee McAuliffe, Anthony Pistone, D'Arne Sleiman, Simon Weybury and Navishkar Singh; and Dr John Butler, Swinburne University of Technology, TAFE Division and the Diploma of Theatre Arts Students, Helen van'f Hof, Rebecca Bone, Stan Ricketson, Olivia Crockford and Reuben Zalme.
2-D Design - NMIT Institute of TAFE
Bronwyn Strempel, NMIT Diploma of Arts Student created the design and Illustration seen on the 2008 Sparta Awards mask and associated promotional material. As a result of the finely-tuned training received in the illustration diploma, Bronwyn will confidently enter the design industry next year, skilled in all aspects of design and illustration for print and new media. She has excelled in the specialised studies of her arts area, which directly services the diverse creative industries of Melbourne.
The Visual Arts Department of NMIT is proud to be involved in the 2008 Sparta Awards. Within this department, a range of study programs are run in visual arts, design, illustration, graphic arts, photography and product design from Certificate through to bachelor level. In addition, there are many short courses that cover key aspects of these art and design fields.
Through their elected courses, students are involved in an exciting range of art activities and learning experiences, covering the studio disciplines of painting, printmaking, drawing, photography, object design and new media: as well, they undertake valuable studies in theory and arts business that foster skills and confidence in ongoing creative development and self-promotion. Ample opportunity is provided for collaboration and participation in commercial, public and community projects that complement classroom activities and offer real experience of a professional environment.
Staging and Stage Design - Swinburne Institute of Technology, TAFE Devision
The Diploma of Theatre Arts, is a multi-disciplinary course based on the Prahran Campus of Swinburne University. Over two years of training the students learn to write, design, build, market, manage and perform in a diverse range of theatre, festivals and major outdoor events. They gain valuable practical and entrepreneurial skills to create their own small companies, and businesses. Their industry based learning combined with some of Melbourne leading artists/teachers provides an exemplary foundation on which to launch their careers. Many graduates are employed as performers, technicians, production and event managers in medium to large theatre and circus companies and in the corporate sector. A number of students continue their studies at the National Institute of Dramatic Arts and the National Institute of Circus Arts. The Diploma of Theatre Arts course provides excellence in TAFE Arts training in Victoria.
Events Management - Kangan Batman TAFE
Kangan Batman TAFE students from the Centre for Better Living Sport Fitness and Natural Therapies are assisting us tonight in the Events Management. All students are completing a Certificate IV in Sport & Recreation and their major stream of study is in Event Management. The students tonight have assisted with the preparation of Running Sheets, acted as Registration hosts and will be assisting in all aspects of the Awards presentations.
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