North Coast TAFE’s Port Macquarie Campus recognised for excellence in Electrical skills training
Friday 28th March, 2008
The North Coast Institute of TAFE’s Port Macquarie campus has been recognised as a leading registered training organisation with a Two Gold Star Rating for their electrical courses.
The Star Rating Scheme is administered by The Institute for Trade Skills Excellence and recognises excellence in trade skills training among TAFE and Registered Training Organisations.
Chief Executive Officer, Elizabeth McGregor of the TAFE North Coast Institute said that receiving the Two Gold Star Rating was recognition of the high quality of teaching delivered.
“The recognition we have received validates our position as a leading choice in training in the electrical skills industry” said Ms McGregor.
The Star Rating Scheme identifies the very best training providers, industry by industry, to enable employers, career counsellors, potential students, and parents to distinguish excellence in trade training by evaluating training providers.
Industry areas within Registered Training Organisations which apply receive either a: One Gold Star; Two Gold Star; or Three Gold Star Rating to indicate that they have achieved excellent results for their students.
The Star Rating Scheme focuses on the following eight areas of skill shortage:
- Automotive
- Building and Construction
- Electrical
- Hospitality and Personal Services
- Manufacturing
- Metals and Engineering
- Mineral Resources
- Rural and Farming
Evaluations are carried out against three broad criteria that were developed in partnership with the industry.
The evaluation process includes an initial self evaluation by the relevant faculty or school, followed by a site visit to schools or faculties who demonstrate potential to achieve a One Gold Star, Two Gold Star or Three Gold Star rating.
Brian Wexham, Chief Executive Officer of The Institute for Trade Skills Excellence said that the Star Rating Scheme reassures students that they are selecting the most appropriate course.
“One of the biggest concerns when choosing a course is whether or not it will get people the job they want when they complete the course. Thanks to the Star Ratings Scheme, prospective students and employers now have a credible source to validate a course.
“The Scheme aims to recognise high performing registered training providers such as the North Coast Institute TAFE, and help individual schools and faculties understand exactly what their clients want from their training.
“The Star Rating Scheme is an industry driven initiative and has been developed by The Institute and industry to provide a platform that will deliver the vocational training outcomes required to meet industry needs” said Mr Wexham.
Elizabeth McGregor, Chief Executive Officer of the TAFE North Coast Institute said the training organisation views the Star Rating Scheme as an effective way of addressing Australia’s skills shortage.
“We found the process to be a valuable addition to our own internal quality processes and regular self-assessment work, and a great mechanism to maintain our focus on providing excellence for our customers”.
“During this critical skills shortage period, we welcome initiatives that seek to identify and meet specific industry needs - such as the Star Rating Scheme. They help us ensure that our apprentices and trainees have the right skills to contribute to industry and the region’s economy” said Ms McGregor.
