SWTAFE the toast of Australian training

The awards were announced tonight during a nation-wide virtual event.

It is the first time South West TAFE has taken out the prestigious honour and CEO Mark Fidge said it was something for the region to celebrate.

“We’re really proud to accept this award on behalf of all our staff, students and supporters in the community,” Mr Fidge said.

“South West TAFE is a vital part of the regional community and our success in creating job opportunities for students and meeting the needs of employers contributes to the success of our region. We share this honour with everyone in south-west Victoria.”
The Australian Training Awards are the peak national awards that showcase best practice in vocational education and training (VET).
The Awards recognise and celebrate excellence and are an important mechanism for promoting the benefits of VET and respect for skill-cased careers and skills excellence.

South West TAFE had earlier won the Victorian Training Awards Large Training Provider title and was one of three shortlisted for the national title.

This was the first time South West TAFE had reached the national finals.

“To go that extra step and win the award is a real honour and something we should all celebrate,” Mr Fidge said.

“It reflects the strong connections we have with local industry and the innovative practices, professionalism and dedication of all our staff in providing the best possible outcomes for every student and every industry. Education and training are the cornerstone of our region’s future success and South West TAFE plays an integral part in that success.”

Apprentice plumber Shona McGuigan, who completed her Certificate III in Plumbing at South West TAFE, won the Victorian Apprentice of the Year title and was also a finalist for the national title.

In 2019, South West TAFE delivered training to 5,000 students in Colac, Hamilton, Portland, Warrnambool and Glenormiston, leading to about 4,260 jobs.