Hello everyone,

The Skills Tasmania 'Growth through Skills & Innovation’ Conference was held recently in Hobart. The Institute tries to attend important functions like these which enhance our understanding of what's happening in the trade and vocational skills area.

Kathryn Lees attended on The Institute's behalf and heard interesting presentations on topics ranging from 'Innovation and innovators' within the Tasmanian industry, 'Productivity through Partnerships', 'Skilling – The Way Forward', to 'Industry, Technology and Training – what will come out of the mix'.

Chair of Skills Tasmania, David Hind in his welcome address stated that Tasmania is experiencing a period of strong economic growth and Skills Tasmania is committed to develop and implementing plans for the state that focus on lifting the skills bas and increasing workforce participation.

Tasmania can boast many companies that are global leaders within their industry and we at The Institute welcome the forward thinking and efforts Skills Tasmania and industry are displaying in ensuring Tasmania will continue to grow and be a leading force within trades and vocational skills. There is no doubt that growth and innovation is the key to the future.

Toward the middle of June we will be conducting another of The Institute for Trade Skills Excellence’s Star Rating Scheme Presentations to Registered Training Organisations who have been recognized as achieving excellence by industry.

I’m thrilled that a total of 15 will be presented with their Star Rating – the largest number so far at any single presentation ceremony. The feedback we’re receiving from RTOs who have participated is very positive – and in particular, they are valuing the way the Star Rating Scheme helps them benchmark their performance against industries requirements. The Scheme is also very useful for those students, parents and career counselors wanting to find out which RTOs will provide the best training and outcomes for employability.

June will also see the launch of The Institute’s Trades and Skills Teacher of the Year Award 2008. Following on from the success of last year’s Awards, this year will see another 18 worthy Trade or Skills Teachers recognized as being the best in their field. Information about the 2008 Awards will be available on www.itse.com.au from June 3rd.

So if you know a Trades or Skills Teacher you feel deserves to be recognized for their hard work, efforts and outstanding results, nominate them and they just could be the winner of $5,000 and the title of Trades and Skills Teacher of the Year.


Regards,

Brian Wexham
Chief Executive Officer
The Institute for Trade Skills Excellence