August media releases
Automotive facility set to deliver training benefits to Dalby region
Visit Careers Market and discover greater possibilities at TAFE
Work and study no boundary for aged care student
Automotive careers moving in right direction
Management Training package pitched by TAFE a hit with town businesses
Indigenous students bulldoze a path to success
Indigenous Horticulture to revive Cherbourg
National Award for TAFE Graphic Design Student
TAFE building training partnerships with Local Government
TAFE horticulture awarded for water management practices
TAFE school based trainee takes diesel industry by storm
TAFE students scoop Ekka cattle awards
Business certificate takes TAFE student to parks and wildlife
TAFE supporting the health and well being of senior citizens
New school-based training initiative launched
TAFE classes begin at Queensland College of Wine and Tourism
Automotive facility set to deliver training benefits to Dalby region
The Dalby region is set to benefit from a new modern automotive and engineering training facility established to deliver training to meet local automotive industry demand for more skilled workers.
Dalby Campus Business Coordinator Darren Smith said the Institute will host a tour on Friday to launch the new training venue at the Australian Agricultural College Dalby campus (AACC).
'The training facility is a result of a joint venture between Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE and AACC to make more efficient use of the Agricultural College's facilities which will allow TAFE to broaden the delivery of its trades programs.'
'The institute is utilising two large sheds at AACC for the delivery of engineering and automotive mechanical training.'
'A range of modern equipment including a $70,000 brake press and eight new welding stations has been incorporated into the existing training facilities to ensure relevant local training can take place.'
Mr Smith said the institute can now deliver underbody training in suspension and exhaust systems as well as traditional training in areas such as transmissions, air conditioning and cooling systems.
'As part of the collaboration the institute is negotiating regarding the training of the automotive components of the AACC students courses for Certificate II, III and IV in Agricultural Production as well as TAFE apprentices and trainees.'
Mr Smith described the commencement of local automotive training as another step forward for the future of trades training in the region.
'Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE and the AACC are working together to offer high quality accredited training options for students and the community.'
'We are consulting very closely with automotive and engineering businesses, and widely encourage the use of our facilities for industry workshops and training days,' Mr Smith said.
Mr Smith believes that given the amount of development happening within the Darling Downs and Southwest Queensland region, the sharing of facilities is an innovative way for the institute and AACC to deliver improved training opportunities in the trades areas.
Automotive Mechanical Teacher Don Naylor said the institute will offer a range of delivery options commencing with day release and building to block release programs to ensure the needs of the local community are met.
'There are currently 70 students in the areas of boilermaking, first year fitting and turning and with enrolments in automotive training and we can expect these numbers to continue increasing,' Mr Naylor said.
The opening will commence at 12pm and representatives from local industry are invited to inspect the new facilities.
Automotive training will commence at the facility later this month.
Any local employer or individual interested in automotive training is encouraged to contact Darren Smith at the Dalby campus on 4669 9901.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
2 August 2006
Visit Careers Market and discover greater possibilities at TAFE
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE Kingaroy campus is gearing up to provide a major education showcase for the community at the Kingaroy Careers Market tomorrow (Thursday August 3).
Faculty Director Leeza Boyce said the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE is delivering more flexible, relevant training for students and employers.
Ms Boyce said students who undertake Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE programs are trained to be job ready.
'TAFE has a high success rate of graduates gaining immediate employment shortly after completing their course.'
'There is a range of options open to school leavers who want to achieve a qualification and obtain job skills that will make them more employable and TAFE is one of them.'
'Students can learn by attending TAFE classes, being instructed whilst at work, or at home through correspondence, online technology or with the use of videolinq and CD Rom.'
Ms Boyce said the institute works closely with industry, particularly with trainees and apprentices who can complete their training whilst employed.
'There has been an increase in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships which means students are getting a head-start in their training and careers, and are a step ahead of the competition for jobs.'
'We can help students make more informed decisions about their training needs and advise on the range of trade and university training options available through TAFE.'
'TAFE is also an avenue for those students wanting to increase their OP scores to get into a university course,'Ms Boyce said.
The Careers Market is on Thursday 3 August between 10am and 2pm at the Kingaroy State High School.
For more information about TAFE programs contact the Kingaroy campus on 4160 4400 or visit www.sqit.qld.gov.au
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
Work and study no boundary for aged care student
Flexible delivery methods at Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE's Chinchilla campus have helped an Aged Care student undertake a Certificate IV while also working part time at Blue Care in Chinchilla.
Amanda Alsemgeest was working on Reception at Blue Care and decided to study Aged Care to give her a deeper understanding of her position and role.
Amanda's Supervisor at work, Margaret Wallis, was also the Teacher of Aged Care at TAFE in Chinchilla.
Amanda said by studying this course she had become a greater asset to her workplace.
'I've been able to assist other carers and helpers with the elderly in providing respite, assisting on trips and general household tasks,' she said.
Amanda found this course personally inspiring and felt it was a good stepping stone to a fulfilling working life if she wanted to pursue a career in Aged Care or associated paths.
While she admits the combined study and part time work can sometimes be difficult to manage, Amanda realises it is all about time management and the end product of reaching your goal.
She said her teacher Margaret Wallis was very knowledgeable and approachable.
'Margaret is very open and willing to share her experiences with us so we too can accomplish our qualification in Aged Care,' Amanda said.
Margaret Wallis said Amanda was to be credited for her efforts.
'It's not always easy to work and study at the same time, but Amanda has been really dedicated and we need people like that in this area of work.'
Amanda hopes to complete her qualification by December this year and then continue her work at Blue Care with the possibility of completing further study through TAFE.
She hopes the qualification will lead to her gaining a higher position and encourages all students wishing to get into the Aged Care industry to complete this qualification.
Amanda thanked Margaret Wallis for all her support and the administration team at Chinchilla TAFE for their professionalism in assisting with enquiries.
The Certificate IV in Aged Care covers all aspects of caring for the Aged including administration, emotional needs, dementia care, specialist communication skills, advocating for clients, etc and can be completed part time through the Chinchilla TAFE.
Classes are run regularly on a Tuesday night and information packs can be collected from Reception at the TAFE.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 46941802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
Automotive careers moving in right direction
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE has boosted the automotive careers of nine mature-aged people in the Toowoomba region by fast tracking them into apprenticeships through a 'Further, Faster Auto Pilot - skilling for the future' training program.
Manufacturing and Built Environment Faculty Director Kylie Lee said Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE and the Department of Employment and Training have teamed up with local employers to deliver this innovative training and skilling program.
'In a bid to tackle issues of skills shortages this program gives students a head start with their careers in the automotive industry,' Mrs Lee said.
Some of the local employers doing their bit to fill the skills gap include Toowoomba Holden, Eldridge Automotive, Pro-Care, Garden City Mechanical and Southern Cross Ford.
'Most of these employers are signing up students into apprenticeships which they are expected to complete in a shorter timeframe,' Mrs Lee said.
'Currently, the students are participating in an intensive 13-week program which includes a combination of recognition of prior learning, TAFE training and vocational placement to develop their mechanical skills.'
'We like to work closely with our students to provide flexible, tailored training that allows them to succeed in their aims and secure the careers and jobs they want.'
'The majority of the students are already working with various automotive businesses while some were offered a vocational placement as part of the program,' she said.
According to Mrs Lee there is going to be a significant increase in industrial development in Queensland over the next ten years, which needs a steady supply of skilled workers in the automotive area.
Local employer Col Briggs of Garden City Mechanical and Service Centre has taken advantage of this accelerated training pilot.
'If the automotive industry is to move forward, addressing the skills shortages is definitely a high priority.'
'The benefit of this program is that I now have a productive worker who has attained the skills and competencies that offer a great start into an automotive apprenticeship.'
'The opportunity now exists to accelerate my apprentice through the final stage of the pilot which delivers a trade qualification in a shorter time,' Mr Briggs said.
'Although the training delivery method is different from traditional four-year apprenticeships, the outcome will be the same - a fully qualified light vehicle automotive mechanic in potentially half the time.'
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
Management Training package pitched by TAFE a hit with town businesses
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE's Dalby campus has received overwhelming interest in its new Frontline Management training package, is the campus is now looking at running a second package.
Dalby Campus Business Coordinator Darren Smith said the Certificate IV in Business - Frontline Management has received so much interest from the community that he's now considering running another course as early as next year.
'We have been really excited by the response to the course. We easily filled seats for the first package, and will now look at running a second one to meet the obvious need of local businesses' Mr Smith said.
'The program is delivered flexibly through workplace activities and assessment and I think that's been a real draw-card.'
'Fifteen participants are currently undertaking the program, from firms including Simplicity, Golding Airconditioning and Pacific Seeds.'
Mr Smith said team leaders and supervisors in a large, medium or small businesses play valuable roles in delivering outcomes.
'Frontline managers have a basic and important leadership role and need to be effective decision makers,' he said.
'The program will provide a tailored, flexible and role-specific instruction to meet the needs of local employers while their staff obtain a nationally-recognised qualification.'
'The Queensland Government's $1 billion dollar Queensland Skills Plan identified that there was a need to provide training to employees that supervise other employees.'
TAFE Business Teacher and Program Coordinator Gillian Smith said the program would suit participants seeking a managerial position within their workplace.
'The participants have the underlying skills but were required to undergo a screening interview process to identify their learning needs and develop a training plan.'
She said as part of the partnerships with local employers a qualified teacher would be on hand to ensure participants are getting the advice and training they require.
Any local employer or individual interested in frontline management training is encouraged to contact Darren Smith on 4669 9901 and register their interest for upcoming programs.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
Indigenous students bulldoze a path to success
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE students are learning to move mountains through a Community Development Employment Project which is helping them gain first-class bulldozer and front-end loader training and qualifications.
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE Indigenous Student Support Officer Kym Lawton said the training was delivered from 'Gubberamunda' - a local property owned by the Collinson Family 35 kilometres north of Roma.
'As part of the training, students constructed a dam at 'Gubberamunda' in partnership with accredited assessors registered with the Department of Workplace Health and Safety,' Ms Lawton said.
'Training in the Roma area is very limited due to availability of machinery and land to practice on, but it's an area of increasing demand and we've been very lucky to have the training up and running.'
'The training has long been needed and has been developed in conjunction with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.'
'The nationally-recognised loader and dozer qualification will make the students strong contenders for jobs in the lucrative mining, gas and oil industries and general earthworks.'
Ms Lawton said it was an exciting time to be employed in these areas.
'There is so much growth in the mining, gas and oil, and general earthworks industries with all jobs requiring the accredited tickets for the operation of a dozer or loader.'
Roma Aboriginal Corporation's Wayne Baker said the qualifications gained by the students were of the highest standard.
'I am very happy and impressed with the loader and dozer training that the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE's Roma Campus have provided to our community,'Mr Baker said.
'It will provide opportunities to bridge the gap between unemployment and the skills required for employment, for example Mining and Gas and Oil Industry.'
Gaye Dodd, from Indigenous Employment Projects in Roma, said the project had been very successful.
'I would really like to commend the partnership between Southern Queensland TAFE's Roma Campus and 'Gubberamunda' for allowing this training to occur,' Ms Dodd said.
'Kym Lawton and Maardi Collinson have done a wonderful job to ensure the training provided by the Roma Campus was a great success.'
Indigenous Student Support Officer Kym Lawton agreed the project had been very worthwhile.
'I couldn't have asked for a better outcome from the dozer and loader training,' Ms Lawton said.
'We had great community representation, commitment and support from the Roma community.'
'We are now looking at further training to skill our people for employment and trade apprenticeships and traineeships into the future.'
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE would like to thank the Roma Aboriginal Corporation, Indigenous Employment Projects, Bidjara Legal Service, Indigenous Coordination Centre, 'Gubberamunda' representatives for their assistance.
TAFE also thanks the Community volunteers - Scribes, Assessors and Trainers involved
For further information about this training please contact Kym Lawton on 4620 4200 or 0429 649 878.
Indigenous community organisations are funded by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Torres Strait Regional Authority to run Community Development Employment Projects in urban, rural and remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Projects relate to each community's needs.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
Indigenous Horticulture to revive Cherbourg
Indigenous students at Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE's Nurunduri Campus are helping revive the community of Cherbourg with a series of horticulture projects also aimed at making it more self-sufficient.
The certificate II in Horticulture (parks and gardens) projects include landscaping a garden and eating area outside a vital training room, and reviving land just outside the town to the point where it's productive and profitable.
In the landscaping project outside Cherbourg Shire Council's training room, also used by TAFE, students have created a modern rock retainer wall and will establish a garden, hanging pot-plants and eating area for daily use.
The Council's training officer Jan Patterson says the project is very worth-while 'It's great because the project is for them, they can see the results of their work and know they can use it in the future. I'm sure they'll find it very rewarding.'
Warren Collins, Chief Executive Officer of Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, agrees the project is important.
'There is a lot to be said for this project. If we can provide a training area that students enjoy, it would be very motivating. Also seeing their work come to fruition is a real thrill for many of these students.'
The other project, run by TAFE teacher Peter Baulch, includes the development of a market garden which he hopes could provide the community with a new industry.
'We're planting a number of species like Bunya pines which will eventually open up an opportunity for bush fruit production, something indigenous people have great knowledge of.'
'Perhaps the most important element of this project is that we're not just teaching students how to grow something, we're also giving them the skills to follow it through, whether that is to their own tables or to a local food outlets.'
'There are 14 students enrolled in the Certificate II course, each taking part in the development of both projects. We have some extremely dedicated students they want to see their community develop and are keen to gain a qualification in the process.'
Warren Collins says TAFE's involvement in the market-garden project is to be highly commended.
'The training being provided will give our students the qualifications to be employed in a range of horticultural industries - everything from landscaping to becoming a ranger with Parks and Wildlife.'
'If students can also gain the skills to develop and market their own produce, it will certainly benefit our community.'
TAFE Nurunduri Campus Business Coordinator, Santina Schmocker, says both projects already have proven to be great success 'We have seen such enthusiasm and dedication from our students for both projects and we can't wait to see the final products.'
'I would like to thank Warren Collins, the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council and community Elders for their input into both projects, and I look forward to co-operating on new ones in the future which will give our horticulture students the skills to go anywhere in their field.'
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
National Award for TAFE Graphic Design Student
A second-year Diploma of Graphic Design student from the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE in Toowoomba has won a Bronze Award at the prestigious Southern Cross Package Design Competition.
Ellie Harris competed against graphic design entrants from colleges and universities across Australia to win third place for her mock-up in the confectionery product design category.
Ellie's winning concept was titled Classic Selection, with her chocolate box designs taking the form of three books presented in a case.
The books were titled 'Centres and Sensibility', 'Gone with the Mint' and 'Midsummer Night Creams'.
Graphic Design Teacher Dianne Durnell said the national competition was very competitive with a complex brief to follow.
'The challenge was to devise an innovative, technical design and a graphically appealing chocolate box that appealed to the upper end of the confectionery market,' Ms Durnell said.
'The design could take on any shape or form necessary to attract sales.'
'When designing the pack and surface graphics students had to consider the technical constraints in the manufacture, printing and finishing processes as well as the shipping and packing of the product.'
Ms Durnell said the hands-on experience allowed students to make the transition from study to a career in graphic design.
'Competitions of this nature encourage students to experience first hand the competitive and creative nature of the graphic design industry,' she said.
'By maintaining industry standards in our teaching program, graduates have a good chance of getting work in their chosen field.'
'Over the past three years, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE students have won awards in the competition.'
Ms Durnell said the Diploma is a two-year, full-time program and was vocationally-based with a strong emphasis on creative design skills and technical proficiency.
Students have access to state-of-the-art equipment and the program is developed in accordance to industry skill requirements.
If you would like to have the opportunity to gain a professional accolade such as Ellie's, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE is offering the Diploma of Graphic Design through QTAC and direct entry in 2007.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
TAFE building training partnerships with Local Government
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE has been delivering high quality training over the past 15 years to local government in Queensland.
Local government is benefiting from a collaborative agreement between Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE and the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) that promotes a statewide approach to delivering programs to achieve successful training outcomes.
Program Manager for Local Government Stephen Seymour said TAFE aimed to work with local councils to provide industry-relevant qualifications for council staff.
'Under a directive of the Queensland Skills Plan, the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE has a statewide responsibility for developing and coordinating local government training,' Mr Seymour said.
'We are the primary point of contact for industry to engage in TAFE training and qualifications and we work with private training providers to achieve best practice across Queensland.'
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE has identified and developed specific training programs based around supporting the trades and establishing apprenticeships in conjunction with the LGAQ for local councils to enable training to occur and that meet the requirements of the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQF).
Programs delivered to local councils include Certificate II, III and IV in Local Government (Operational Works), Certificate II in Civil Construction, Certificate III in Civil Construction (Road Construction and Maintenance), Certificate III in Civil Construction (Plant) and Certificate III in Concreting, Frontline Management, Business and IT qualifications.
'Our nationally accredited programs from the training package of local government improves the skills of employees and gives them an industry-relevant qualification,' Mr Seymour said.
As the theme Closest to the People suggests, the focus of this year's conference will be on promoting the messages of the Queensland Skills Plan and establish Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE as the lead institute for local government training.
The 110th Annual LGAQ Conference opens in Toowoomba on Monday (August 28 - 31) at Toowoomba's Empire Theatre.
The LGAQ Conference is the largest and most anticipated event on the local government calendar and brings representatives from all of Queensland's Councils together to enable Local Government to set policy directions for the coming year.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
TAFE horticulture awarded for water management practices
A horticultural plan developed by Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE to help nurseries improve their water efficiency has been 'highly commended' in this year's Toowoomba City Council Environmental Excellence Awards.
Institute Director John Slater said the Horticulture Team's Water Efficiency Management Plan received the award in the Business and Government category.
'I congratulate the Horticulture Team for their initiation and implementation of this project - their entry was excellent and innovative and is an investment in the future of Toowoomba's environment,' Mr Slater said.
'The team has shown dedication, resourcefulness and initiative in protecting and preserving a very fragile and precious natural resource.'
Horticulture Teacher Brian Sams said the project was developed to instil water-saving practices in the nursery industry.
'The Water Efficiency Management Plan is a practical tool that will guide decision-making and provide clear directions for implementing measures that reduce water consumption,' Mr Sams said.
'It is an ongoing program and is available to individuals and businesses seeking to develop their own water management programs.'
'This project aims to increase awareness of the importance of efficient water application practices.'
'It will allow nurseries, irrigators, producers and students to plan, prepare and respond more effectively to water issues and conservation.'
For more information about water management practices contact the TAFE Horticulture Centre on 4694 1855.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
TAFE school based trainee takes diesel industry by storm
Thomas Commerford is not only the first student out of his pioneering school-based training group to complete their trade - he's also done it in record time.
Thomas was recently promoted to workshop foreman at major regional trucking company, Porters Transport Pty Ltd.
Institute Director John Slater said it was fantastic to see such success stories coming out of the school-based program.
Mr Slater said the program had an outstanding record of students like Thomas obtaining apprenticeships with their host employer.
'Thomas is one of the first students to go through this program, which was initiated in response to a shortage of skilled workers in industries like automotive.'
'TAFE has a key role in the school-based program, not only as a training provider, but in the selection process of students looking to participate,' Mr Slater said.
After completing a Certificate II in Automotive (Mechanics, Vehicle servicing), Thomas was picked up by employer, Wide Bay Group Training, who then found him an apprenticeship in diesel fitting at Porters Transport.
Because of the program, Thomas was able to cut 18 months off his apprenticeship.
'Because I spent part of my Year 11 and 12 studies doing on-the-job training for diesel fitting, it meant the skills I acquired over that time could be recognised and cut time off my apprenticeship.'
Keith Green of Porters Transport Pty Ltd said it had been worthwhile taking Thomas on as a trainee.
'He's very conscientious and works hard. We are now planning to send him to Brisbane for engine training at Cummins' Engines and transmission and diff training at leading Kenworth dealer, Brown and Hurley.'
'It's not often trainees get that sort of opportunity, but Thomas has proven he's worth the investment. If every apprentice were like him things would be a breeze.'
Thomas said his school-based training with Porters Transport gave him the opportunity to work with heavy machinery as well as lighter vehicles, thus leading on to his apprenticeship as a diesel mechanic.
'I had always enjoyed mechanics and that sort of thing, but to have the time at Porter's meant I could then deal with heavy machinery as well, instead of being limited to small vehicles.'
Thomas Commerford said he would urge anyone looking at a trade to consider getting started while at school.
Anyone interested in school-based training can contact Warwick Campus on Ph: 4660 4600.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
TAFE students scoop Ekka cattle awards
The dust may have well and truly settled at the Brisbane Royal showgrounds, but it seems talk is still rife about the success of Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE trained high school students in the cattle arena.
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE trained secondary school students managed to scoop the pool at the Royal Queensland Show this year bringing home a swag of honours.
Warwick TAFE campus Head Rural teacher Dugall McDougall said agricultural students were putting what they'd learnt into practice
'The students are indicating that they've got what it takes to make a career in agriculture,' Mr McDougall said.
'They are getting results at local shows by winning prizes with the cattle they exhibit.'
Warwick's SCOTS PGC College was well represented at the Show with winning students Kate Glasser and Nicole Hartwig excelling in the ring.
Kate was judged Champion Junior Parader while Nicole took out the title of Reserve Champion Junior Parader.
Students Justin Laird and Brigette Henning combined with Kate Glasser to win the Interschool Young Judges Competition.
Mr McDougall said more than 20 school teams from across the state competed in the parade ring and the standard was very high.
'Each school made their presence felt in a range of classes from junior cattle judging to the steer competition.'
According to Mr McDougall dozens of schools across south-east Queensland are involved in some form of TAFE training.
'Many schools now want to develop their rural training program to include TAFE Certificates I, II and III in Agriculture,' he said.
'We've wanted to partner the schools for some years and now have the training resources to cope with their needs.'
Anyone interested in an agricultural career and would like more information about agriculture training programs can contact the Warwick TAFE campus on 4660 4600 or the Kingaroy TAFE campus on 4160 4400.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 46941802 or 0438 863 516
August 2006
Business certificate takes TAFE student to parks and wildlife
A Certificate in Business at Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE has not only taken one student to the broad field of Parks and Wildlife, it's also opened the doors to a traineeship.
Tamara Tucker moved to Charleville to begin a Certificate III in Business traineeship with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service in April last year.
During her 12 months of study, she covered topics and skills like Workplace Health and safety, Producing Business Documents, Maintaining Business Resources, Designing and Developing Text Documents and Creating Electronic Presentations.
'All of my skills obtained through the Certificate III have been really handy, I use them everyday,' Tamara said.
At Parks and Wildlife, Tamara's position involves a lot of data entry, issuing books, tags and licences, counter and telephone enquiries, using the cash register and normal administration duties.
'The Certificate III really set me up for this kind of work and the Traineeship has been a great experience and good learning opportunity,' she said.
'I get to deal with a wide range of people from other government departments, businesses and the general public. We also have a lot of tourists coming and going.'
Tamara said the course had taught her the value of networking.
'I didn't know many people when I started work at Charleville, but the staff have been really nice and are always willing to share their experience with me,' she said.
'I'm really lucky to be able to work in a very relaxed and motivating atmosphere, but it's really through the TAFE course that I achieved my goal.'
'I think the traineeship will provide me with a lot of different skills that will enable me to be really versatile and it will enable me to further my career.'
Tamara said she would urge anyone considering the business field to have a go.
'It's a great experience and you come out with a really versatile qualification. You can get all sorts of work from part-time to full-time careers.'
Southern Queensland TAFE's Charleville Campus Business Manager Debbie Richardson said it was exciting to see where TAFE's courses could take young people.
'The Parks and Wildlife department was so happy with Tamara's training they have now employed another trainee in Certificate III in Business Administration,' Ms Richardson said.
The Charleville TAFE Campus staff can explain the process to follow to employ a part-time, full-time or school based trainee. For more information contact (07) 4654 4990.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
17 August 2006
TAFE supporting the health and well being of senior citizens
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE and local Health Service providers have rallied together to celebrate Senior's Week by hosting a Seniors Leisure and Lifestyle Expo this weekend <August 18 & 19>.
The event is an initiative of Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE and is being organised in conjunction with Warwick Health Service and Warwick Shire Council.
Aged Care Teacher Janine Hegarty said the expo would showcase local services and recreational activities with numerous static and interactive displays, free giveaways, information sessions, live demonstrations, an over 50s program and computer courses for older adults.
'Overall it is a great collaborative effort between the organisations to provide a service to the community,' Ms Hegarty said.
Twenty four Certificate III Aged Care students from the Warwick campus have been involved in organising guest speakers, enlisting support and involvement of service providers, fundraising and designing displays promoting healthy lifestyle choices.
Ms Hegarty said the expo was an opportunity for the students to demonstrate their flare and skill in organising and coordinating a senior's event.
'Through their involvement, students will gain knowledge of what services and activities are available within the local and broader community for older people,' she said.
The Expo will be open on Friday 18th August from 3:00pm to 5:00pm and Saturday 19th from 10:00am to 4:00pm at the Warwick Indoor Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Palmerin Street.
For further information about aged care courses at the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE visit the expo and speak to students and staff or contact the Aged Care Team at the Warwick campus on 4660 4600.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
25 August 2006
New school-based training initiative launched
A new school-based education and training initiative of the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE will be unveiled to Toowoomba and south-west Queensland schools today.
Institute Director John Slater said the Schools Training Prospectus was a program developed to assist students in their senior phase of learning to make more informed choices about their future education and employment options.
"Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE will provide school students with training options that will offer them the competitive edge in the search for employment," Mr Slater said.
'The information contained in the prospectus will enable teaching staff and guidance officers to design a study program that matches their students' career goals,' he said.
TAFE offers a broad range of training options and is encouraging students completing Year 10, or who have turned 16, to complete a qualification while at school to help them make the transition to employment.
'Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE encourages schools to deliver qualifications from nationally-accredited training packages within their curriculum,' Mr Slater said.
'It is an opportunity for schools to provide training pathways for their students who are moving towards working life.'
There are numerous learning pathways available to 15 to 17-year-olds such as school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, nationally-recognised qualifications at certificate level.
The Schools Prospectus will be launched today at the Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE lecture theatre with formalities commencing from 10:30am.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516
29 August 2006
TAFE classes begin at Queensland College of Wine and Tourism
The Queensland College of Wine tourism, in partnership with the
Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE is developing as a dynamic learning centre for the wine industry, as well as servicing community needs.Campus Business Coordinator Catherine Thomas said the College will provide education and training at secondary, certificate, diploma and university levels.
'The joint partnership will provide students with an opportunity to study and practise in environments that equip them for a future career in a wide variety of areas,' Ms Thomas said.
'Students will be trained in simulated work environments and will have access to the latest in training resources and modern technologies.'
'Students are encouraged to reach their true potential with nationally-recognised training and qualifications.'
'They will also have access to highly qualified trainers in their fields.'
Ms Thomas said the new building was taking shape with training in Certificate II and II in Food Processing (Wine) now operating at the College.
'Workshops for the Diploma of Tourism (Operations) and for the Certificate III in Tourism (Operations) are being offered by external delivery,' she said.
'These programs have proven popular with a high level of interest shown from local industry and within the community.'
She said the workshop had been designed to meet the demands of the local industry in further developing the wine tourism sector in the region.
Some of the programs to be delivered at the College in 2007 include:
- Diploma of Front Line Management
- Diploma of Business
- Diploma of Hospitality Management
- Diploma of Events Management
- Diploma of Tourism Management
- Certificate IV in Small Business Management
- Certificate IV in Hospitality (Supervision)
- Certificate III in Tourism (Operations)
- Certificate III in Hospitality Operations (Front Office & Gaming)
- Certificate III in Event Management (Meetings & Events)
- Certificate II in Food Processing (Wine).
Diploma and Bachelor of Business programs will be offered through USQ.
To register your interest for 2007 courses or for more information on training programs contact the Stanthorpe TAFE campus on 4681 3411.
Media Contact:
Marketing Manager, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE (07) 4694 1802 or 0438 863 516