i want to know what happened in 2013

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1 HEADING i want to know what happened in 2013 TAFE WESTERN 2013 ANNUAL REPORT 1

2 Contents 3 Institute Director s Message 5 Delivering education and training that changes lives 9 Exceeding our customers expectations 11 Ensuring TAFE Western is a vital part of western NSW 18 Embracing new ways of doing business 21 Developing and supporting a passionate and capable workforce 23 Finance 2

3 INSTITUTE DIRECTOR s MESSAGE It gives me great pleasure to present the 2013 TAFE Western Annual Report; which reflects and showcases the significant efforts and contributions TAFE Western made during 2013 to meet its mission of creating education and training opportunities and outcomes for individuals, communities and industry. This report will demonstrate how TAFE Western changed lives through education and training in You will also read how the Institute is preparing for the many changes in our operating environment. TAFE Western was a leading provider of vocational education and training to 36,823 students at 24 colleges in western NSW. This includes 3,874 students who enrolled through TAFE Western Connect; a regional strategy to ensure that TAFE Western s delivery of vocational education and training continues to make a vital contribution to western NSW giving access to a wider range of courses offered in all the Institute s communities. TAFE Western Connect links, coordinates and promotes TAFE Western s online, mobile and flexible delivery services to provide an increased range of courses and delivery options for students in small and medium sized communities of western NSW. In 2013, NSW Premier Barry O Farrell congratulated TAFE Western for its innovative work in Vocational Education and Training with the Institute winning the 2013 NSW Premier s Award for Public Service at a ceremony in Sydney. It was a pleasure to be recognised with this prestigious award which demonstrates the hard work our staff undertake in meeting TAFE Western s key priorities. TAFE Western was also honoured for its work in Aboriginal education and training with the prestigious Award for Institute Innovation at the 2013 TAFE NSW Gili Awards. This recognised TAFE Western s excellence in the provision of delivery and innovative strategies to increase Aboriginal student participation, retention, completion and transition to employment. TAFE Western is making a reputation for itself throughout Australia and internationally for our efforts to bridge the gap in the disadvantage that Aboriginal people experience relation to education and employment. The Institute is the single largest provider of vocational education and training for Aboriginal people in Australia with more than 6,959 students enrolled in The Institute also launched its new Business Capability Unit in 2013, which provides customised training to meet the needs of businesses and employers in western NSW. It was a pleasure to be recognised with this prestigious award which demonstrates the hard work our staff undertake in meeting TAFE Western s key priorities. 3

4 INSTITUTE DIRECTOR s MESSAGE In 2014 TAFE Western will continue to focus on ensuring exceptional customer service, improving customer responsiveness, maintaining quality provision and ensuring our students receive value for money. We are able to conduct an on-site analysis, identify skill gaps and listen to ideas whilst developing flexible training strategies including recognition of prior learning, online and distance learning, as well as workplace delivery. TAFE Western is committed to focusing on the important geographic, economic and social attributes of more than half the land mass of NSW. Our footprint crosses from Lithgow to Broken Hill and from Grenfell to Lightning Ridge but only accounts for approximately four per cent of the state s population. Those who know the western region of NSW are aware TAFE Western works in a unique and challenging footprint where only 50 per cent of people hold a post school qualification and only 39 per cent of Aboriginal students who start Year 7 go on to complete Year 12. From 1 January 2015, TAFE Western will move into a demand driven system which will mean the introduction of a student entitlement for training at Certificate II and III level; increased competition from other providers who will be able to offer Government subsidised training, a Skills List which will determine the course areas that will attract a Government subsidy and the need for the Institute to reduce its reliance on Government revenue. To prepare for this, in 2014 TAFE Western will continue to focus on ensuring exceptional customer service, improving customer responsiveness, maintaining quality provision and ensuring our students receive value for money. An exciting and important new initiative to look out for at your local college in 2014 is TAFE Western s Student Hubs. TAFE Western s Student Hubs will be a one stop shop where TAFE Western s services wrap around our customers and will ensure we continue to attract, retain and complete students. TAFE Western s Student Hubs will be one place for our students to connect to careers advice, course information, Aboriginal support services, disability support services, learning assistance, library services, learning resources and online study help. TAFE Western s commitment to change lives is seen in the many stories our students tell, about their vocational education and training experience, opening the door to employment, boosting their self-confidence, achieving above their expectations in their chosen field, or being able to make a career change. I commend to you TAFE Western s 2013 Annual Report. Kate Baxter Institute Director 4

5 DELIVERING EDUCATION AND TRAINING THAT CHANGES LIVES The Institute is achieving real employment outcomes for a challenging and diverse community, playing a vital role in supporting economic development. TAFE Western seeks to create education and training opportunities and outcomes for individuals, communities and industries throughout western New South Wales. In meeting its mission TAFE Western services some of the most isolated and remote communities in Australia and is the largest provider of vocational education and training to Aboriginal people. In 2013, TAFE Western was approved to deliver 397 Nationally Accredited Qualifications. The Institute has a well-earned reputation for delivering innovative and hands-on training that meets national standards and industry expectations. In 2013, the Institute delivered more than 140 courses via a flexible approach to delivery incorporating recognition for prior learning, online and distance learning, workplace delivery and assessment. The Institute is achieving real employment outcomes for a challenging and diverse community, playing a vital role in supporting economic development and ensuring all segments of the community have the opportunity to participate in a broad range of education and training. PROFILE OF STUDENTS In 2013, TAFE Western had 36,823 student enrolments who undertook 6,009,313 hours of training. The profile of TAFE Western student included: 2,615 apprentices and 1,451 trainees 6,959 Aboriginal student enrolments, accounting for 18.9 percent of total enrolments 3,836 students indicated that they had a disability, accounting for 10.4 per cent of total enrolments 16,661 students were aged between 15 and 24 years of age. 5

6 DELIVERING EDUCATION AND TRAINING THAT CHANGES LIVES 2013 OUTSTANDING GRADUATING STUDENT OF THE YEAR Exceptional commitment creates pathway to university Each year, High School Certificate students in western New South Wales have the opportunity to complete one of 60 courses available through TAFE Western, as part of their regular school study program. TAFE delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) provides Year 11 and 12 school students with the opportunity to gain a formal qualification, a pathway to further education and training and practical skills and training for the workplace. Rhianne Forrest, an enthusiastic and caring young woman who is committed to health care, was recently named TAFE Western s Most Outstanding Graduating Student after successfully completing her Certificate III Health Services Assistant as part of her Higher School Certificate. Rhianne demonstrated an exceptional commitment to attend class and a determination to complete her studies regardless of any obstacles. Rhianne s Certificate III qualification enables her to work part-time while attending the University of Canberra s School of Nursing. Rhianne believes TAFE Western played a significant role in assisting her to achieve her personal and professional aspirations. TAFE has taught me lifelong knowledge and communication skills. It has given me the confidence and the strength to believe in myself. I would certainly encourage anyone thinking of completing Year 11 and 12 to consider undertaking a TAFE course as part of their Higher School Certificate Studies. TAFE Western has changed my work and life situation as I now have employment and skills that not only help in my professional career but also in diverse work environments. TVET courses give students more subject choices and an insight into a certain career. Students are taught by trained industry experienced teachers in a well-equipped training facility and have the opportunity to undertake work experience. All TVET courses count towards a student s Higher School Certificate and most can even contribute to receiving an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank. 6

7 DELIVERING EDUCATION AND TRAINING THAT CHANGES LIVES 2013 Outstanding graduating student awards Each year TAFE Western acknowledges the achievements of its most outstanding students. In 2013 the Outstanding Graduating students were: Rhianne Forrest 2013 Most Outstanding Graduating Student and TVET Student of the Year Gillian Diamond-Squires Runner-up Most Outstanding Graduating Student and Vocational Student of the Year Jamie Billing 2013 Most Outstanding Aboriginal Student and Aboriginal Trainee of the Year Jerakye Goolagong Young Learner of the Year David Cummings Apprentice of the Year Emily Gilmore Apprentice of the Year Jordyn Elgar Trainee of the Year Sevastinca Popa Pre-Vocational Student of the Year Zachary Archer Vocational Student of the Year Anne Emmanuel Vocational Student of the Year Aarron Farrell Vocational Student of the Year Margaret Pavy Vocational Student of the Year Meredith Robinson Vocational Student of the Year Shirley Scott Aboriginal Elder of the Year 7

8 DELIVERING EDUCATION AND TRAINING THAT CHANGES LIVES BATHURST STUDENT BEST IN THE STATE Bathurst College Graduate, Danni Johnson has been awarded a state medal after successfully completing her Diploma of Enrolled Nursing in which she achieved the highest possible marks based on her academic results. Danni juggled her studies with family life for two years, adding assignments, practical work and 24 hours of weekly class time to her schedule. Danni now works full-time at Bathurst Base Hospital and confirms that TAFE Western definitely changed her direction on life and made things so much easier. Danni completed a double degree in teaching and psychology when she left school but after having a family found herself interested in the medical industry. Danni said, I originally thought about going back to university, however with three small children I was looking for study options a little more flexible and supportive. TAFE Western was the right fit for me. Three months into my studies, I learnt my youngest child, Logan, had autism. It s been a balancing act getting him to therapy. Lots of tests, lots of assignments [at TAFE] but it was something I really wanted to do something I was really passionate about. There is no doubt that undertaking my Diploma of Enrolled Nursing with TAFE Western got me a job and prepared me for what to expect. The teachers had current stories and industry experience and I completed approximately 600 hours of work experience at hospitals in Bathurst, Bourke, Coonamble, Lithgow and Cowra. The pathway from TAFE Western s Enrolled Nursing course provides students with guaranteed entry into Charles Sturt University and a first year credit. Danni now hopes to do her nursing degree. I have a strong passion to make a difference and help people. My long term goal is to become a midwife. 8

9 EXCEEDING OUR CUSTOMERS EXPECTATIONS TAFE Western is committed to identifying areas in which the organisation needs to improve and expand services to our customers which are flexible, customised and accessible to ensure customers experiences are of the highest quality. TAFE Western seeks and acts on customers feedback. Tafe western connect revitalising regional nsw In 2013, NSW Premier Barry O Farrell congratulated TAFE Western for its innovative work in Vocational Education and Training with the Institute winning the NSW Premier s Awards for Public Service at a ceremony in Sydney. TAFE Western Connect, which provides more choices in education and training to more people in more places, won the Revitalising Regional NSW category. TAFE Western Connect links, coordinates and promotes TAFE Western s online, mobile and flexible delivery services to provide an increased range of courses and delivery options for students in small and medium sized communities of western NSW. Ms Kate Baxter, TAFE Western s Institute Director said, It is a pleasure to be recognised with this prestigious award. Every staff member has worked hard to make TAFE Western Connect successful. TAFE Western Connect is a regional strategy to ensure that TAFE Western s delivery of vocational education and training continues to make a vital contribution to Western NSW giving access to a wider range of courses offered in all of the Institute s communities. In 2013, TAFE Western Connect helped more than 3,874 students gain access to further education and training. Of significance is that 24.7 per cent of enrolments were Aboriginal students and 11.4 per cent were students with a disability. TAFE Western Connect has also previously been recognised with the initiative being named Project of the Year at the TAFE NSW Innovation and Excellence Awards in Meeting the needs of employers At the start of 2013, TAFE Western launched its new Business Capability Unit which provides customised training to meet the needs of businesses and employers in Western NSW. This was a very exciting time for TAFE Western. One of the key priorities outlined in our strategic plan is to exceed our customers expectations and with the implementation of this new one stop shop the organisation responded to feedback to improve specialised training and provide a more coordinated, customer focused, organisation-wide approach. TAFE Western s new Account Managers now work with employers and industry to ensure we deliver the best vocational education and training programs at the right places and at the right times. The Institute is able to conduct an on-site analysis, identify skill gaps and listen to ideas whilst developing flexible training strategies including recognition of prior learning, online and distance learning, as well as workplace delivery. TAFE Western can also help employers access Government funding which may extend training budgets as well as provide guidance in legislative and industry training requirements. 9

10 Exceeding our customers expectations TAFE STUDENTS SATISFIED WITH THEIR EDUCATION AND TRAINING According to the results of a 2013 survey, TAFE Western s students are very satisfied with their experiences at TAFE. Research conducted last year which surveyed more than 2500 students found that the aggregate satisfaction rate of students was 94.6%. Ms Kate Baxter, TAFE Western s Institute Director said, One of the key priorities outlined in our strategic plan is to exceed our customers expectations. The results show that we are making good progress in meeting this aspiration. Anecdotally, we certainly hear a lot of positive stories about how people have enjoyed their training experience. Many of our graduates say that the experience has changed their life by developing their confidence and giving them new skills and experiences to make changes in their careers and lives, she said. The Student Satisfaction survey is conducted annually by TAFE Western as one of the key indicators to measure the quality of the organisation s services. The survey covers 35 separate criteria including active learning, competency development, effective support, trainer quality, resources, relevance and overall satisfaction. Ms Baxter said that while she was very pleased by the positive results that TAFE Western would continue to work to make sure that students experiences continue to improve. Our vision is to provide education and training that changes lives, she said. We aim to continue doing that by providing relevant and high quality training in a way that suits our customers. Many of our graduates say that the experience has changed their life by developing their confidence and giving them new skills and experiences to make changes in their careers and lives. 10

11 ENSURING TAFE WESTERN IS A VITAL PART OF WESTERN NSW TAFE Western seeks to identify and respond to the needs and aspirations of people within the Central West, North West and Far West regions of NSW. This Institute is dedicated to forming strong relationships with the communities in which it operates, as well as industries and key organisations. People living in TAFE Western s footprint who hold a tertiary qualification command higher income from employment than those with no post-school qualification. In addition, people holding a TAFE Diploma or Certificate III or IV were significantly less likely to be unemployed than those with no post-school qualifications. Developing the cultural competency of TAFE Western In 2013, as part of another step in our journey in Aboriginal education TAFE Western worked with local Aboriginal communities naming conference rooms at most of our 24 campuses. It is an important symbol of our determination to work with Aboriginal people and communities. We are proud of what we have achieved so far in meeting the needs of Aboriginal people in relation to education and employment. Recently we embarked on a significant training program to ensure that all our staff have an appropriate knowledge of Aboriginal history and culture. This will be led by TAFE Western s Aboriginal Education and Training Unit. Location Room Name Meaning Bathurst Wahluu Mt Panorama Bourke Ngiya Dhirrba Girri is the traditional Ngemba name which means knowing, law, knowledge, purpose Brewarrina Dhugaay Dhirranggalnha is the Ngemba name which means really, smart, present. Cobar Ngiyanu is the traditional Ngiyampaa name which means we, us, more than one. The name was chosen as it signifies coming together to learn. Condobolin Girinyalagigu Ngurang To Talk Together Place Coonamble Guwaa-Li talk (to), speak (to) Cowra Windradynew An Aboriginal Warrior and resistance leader of the Wiradjuri nation Dubbo Myall St Ngangirra Meaning Meeting, and signifying coming together Dubbo N mine Rd Walang Meaning stone Dunedoo Dhundhu The Wiradjuri word for black swan Dunedoo gets its name from the Dhundhu. Forbes Gallari A Wiradjuri word for the Lachlan River 11

12 Ensuring TAFE Western is a vital part of western NSW Location Room Name Meaning Gilgandra Mulbirrang Pretty Eastern Rosella Lithgow Winhangarra Think, hear listen Lightning Ridge Maayama Buudhaa-baa maayama stone (opal) and buudhaa-baa meeting place Mudgee Girinyalanha To talk together Nyngan Warragul Dingo or wild dog Orange March St Nguluway Ngurang A place to meet each other Orange Inst. Yindyamarra Which means to honour, respect and be polite Orange Greenskills Orange Greenskills Wirrimbirra Wamarragu To keep preserve and take care of To build and construct Parkes Dhulu- Yarra Ngurang Straight talking, no nonsense talk Recently we embarked on a significant training program to ensure that all our staff have an appropriate knowledge of Aboriginal history and culture. Walgett Dharriwaa dhiirraligu common meeting place for teaching Warren Dinawan Emu Wellington Wirrum Wirrum Ngurang People s meeting place/camp 12

13 Ensuring TAFE Western is a vital part of western NSW TAFE WESTERN DEMONSTRATES COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY TAFE Western was recognised for its work in sustainability, becoming a Bronze Partner of the Sustainability Advantage Program in 2013 for the organisations environmental achievements. The Sustainability Advantage Program helps organisations understand sustainability and strengthen their environmental performance. The Program is a business support service from the Office of Environment and Heritage. Ms Lorne Butt, TAFE Western s Ecological Sustainability Coordinator said, This is an exciting milestone for TAFE Western. Over the past twelve months we have built on the good work of recent years and redesigned the sustainability portfolio, she said. This has included the launch of our new Sustainability Charter and Framework; initiation of programs in the areas of paper, travel, fleet and utilities; and design of a web-based reporting system. The support of Sustainability Advantage has been critical to our work on the new portfolio. Ms Butt added, Our focus in 2013 was on identifying solutions for energy and water management at all of our campuses, and working with our teaching staff to develop an Education for Sustainability strategy. TAFE Western undertook several key sustainability initiatives in 2013: The sustainable source office and copy paper procurement program was launched in February. In partnership with Staples Australia Pty Ltd, TAFE Western now requires all of its campuses to purchase certified sustainable source carbon neutral products, with option to purchase 100% or 50% recycled content depending on availability. The purchase of non-sustainable source office and copy paper is no longer supported by the Institute s procurement system. The Institute s Ecological Sustainability Design Brief was approved as a minimum standard for new and retrofit capital works projects. The Brief is designed to promote integrated building design that promotes efficient and flexible space utilisation as a sustainability strategy in its own right. TAFE Western also seeks to ensure that development and redevelopment of its infrastructure is designed to ensure that assets are able to meet both current and future delivery requirements, promote the benefits of incorporating sustainable development into building design and construction, and respond to the requirements of NSW 2021, NSW Energy Efficiency Action Plan and NSW Government asset management policy. Work commenced on the Mudgee Stage 4 Student Hub project. Mudgee Stage 4 has been designed to meet the requirements of the Green Building Council of Australia s Green Star Education rating tool and is expected to achieve a 5-star Green Star rating. Major upgrade work was undertaken on the Institute s vehicle spray paint and repair facilities at its Dubbo College. The 30-year old existing spray booth was replaced with a new booth manufactured by Pan Booths Australia that features the latest in spray-paint technology. Energy-efficient lighting; fully automated ventilation, insulation, filtering and chemical build-up detection systems; and an activated carbon filtration system to remove odours, volatile organic compounds and other contaminants are key features of the new system. Pan Booths Australia also donated a paint laboratory to TAFE Western as part of the project. The project is an investment of $160,000 for the Institute, with installation completed in October The new booth is expected to save the Dubbo College $30,000 annually in gas and electricity costs, and complements previous work undertaken to convert the spray-paint and repair operation to the use of Eco-Logical water-based solvents and paints manufactured by Sikkens. New policies were approved that provide guidance to staff on how to manage e-waste and reduce the amount of travel being undertaken across the Institute. The Institute continued its practice of green fleet management, with the average environmental score of its commercial vehicles in 2012/2013 reaching 9.76 and exceeding the State Government s target performance of The State Government s 2012/2013 target performance for passenger vehicles was TAFE Western s average environmental score for its passenger fleet was 13.84, and it expects to exceed the state performance target in 2013/2014. As part of its review of structure and governance, the Institute embedded sustainability as a key position responsibility for all new positions, including all senior executive and management positions. 13

14 Ensuring TAFE Western is a vital part of western NSW TAFE Western also launched a number of staff and community engagement projects: The Institute was a Gold Sponsor of the 31st NSW Environmental Educators Conference, held in Dubbo in September. TAFE Western also hosted the 2013 Orange Sustainable Living Week CSIRO Science Education Workshop series in September. The partnership between TAFE Western, Orange Rotary, Orange City Council and the CSIRO enables local schools to gain access to climate and weather workshop opportunities. In 2013, the Institute hosted approximately 900 students from 10 local primary and high schools. Three staff were awarded Institute Director Awards for Sustainable Practice for projects relating to refurbishment of the vehicle spray-paint and repair facility in Dubbo; a computer donation program for disadvantaged schools in the Philippines; and strategic reorientation of the Institute s sustainability portfolio. The inaugural Green Campus Survey was launched in The survey asks campuses about their recycling, waste management, sustainability reporting, procurement and building use practices, as well as asking staff for their ideas about how the sustainability portfolio at TAFE Western could be further improved. Campuses scored points according to their responses, with the Dunedoo Campus awarded the winner s certificate during the Institute Director s Award ceremony held in November. The Broken Hill Main Campus was highly commended. The spray paint and vehicle repair operation also featured at the Dubbo Sustainability Expo held in August, along with some of TAFE Western s key industry partners. A trade night held in October showcased the new spray booth to community, trade and industry representatives, and current and potential students, along with displays by industry partners. TAFE Western s Turn It Off program featured a series of posters and stickers distributed to all campuses in September-October. The posters and stickers were designed in partnership with Metro Printing as low environmental impact products, featuring the use of vegetable inks and dyes, 100% recycled paper stock, and the use of thousands of micro suction-cups (a technology designed in the United States) instead of glue on sticker backings. TAFE Western was a finalist in two national awards in 2013 the Green Gown Awards Australasia Continuous Improvement Institutional Change award, and the Australasian Campuses Towards Sustainability Award of Excellence Institution award. turn off heaters turn off lights turn off air-conditioners turn off computers, printers and projectors Help us to Help you! turn us off on your way out. If you don t need us, don t turn us on! we still use power even when we re on standby. 14

15 Ensuring TAFE Western is a vital part of western NSW TAFE Western Honoured with Award for Institute Innovation TAFE Western has been honoured for its work in Aboriginal education and training at the TAFE NSW Gili Awards in Sydney last week. The prestigious award was presented in recognition of excellence in the provision of delivery and innovative strategies to increase Aboriginal student participation, retention, completion and transition to employment. Mr Rod Towney, TAFE Western s Manager of Aboriginal Education and Training said the Institute is determined to bridge the gap and is committed to working with community to understand and meet their needs, and with employers and industry to create effective pathways from training to employment for Aboriginal people. TAFE Western is the single largest provider of Vocational Education and Training for Aboriginal people in Australia with more than 7,600 students enrolled in This is a growth of 9% compared to Some examples of TAFE Western innovations in partnership include: Establishing an Aboriginal Community Reference Group, which is the Institute s peak advisory body in relation to Aboriginal education; Managing the state-wide Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) program. This program has achieved impressive outcomes in course completions, employment and further education; Partnering with government and non-government health providers to train Aboriginal Health Workers; Partnering with Charles Sturt University, NSW Health and the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service to support the first Aboriginal cohort of students to commence their studies in Dental Assisting. This program has been designed to create a customised training pathway leading to an increased number of Aboriginal dentists; and, Partnering with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to support the training of Aboriginal trainees in Conservation and Land Management. Mr Towney also added that TAFE Western has significantly expanded the number of Aboriginal people working for the organisation and has a number of further strategies in place to ensure strong connections with the Aboriginal communities in western NSW. Staff and students from TAFE Western were also honoured through the awards. These included: Institute Director Kate Baxter, who was awarded with the Director s Meritorious Service Award; Head Teacher of Yarradamarra, Connie Ah-See, who was awarded with the Aboriginal Staff Award; and, Dubbo College Graduate, Jerakye Goolagong of Condobolin who received an Achievement Award. TAFE Western is making a reputation for itself throughout Australia and internationally for their efforts in Aboriginal education and training, Mr Towney said. The 23rd anniversary of the TAFE NSW Gili Awards celebrated and recognised the achievements of Aboriginal TAFE NSW students, staff and programs that have contributed to Aboriginal communities through training and education. 15

16 Ensuring TAFE Western is a vital part of western NSW Students smile at the opportunity to undertake Dental Assisting training in Orange In a first for Western NSW, 13 students undertook a Certificate III in Dental Assisting at TAFE Western s Orange College in The Dental Assisting Course addressed the current industry training gap and provided a pathway to higher education and employment. Dental Assisting Student, Jessica Gough, has been working in the industry for the past six years said, I enrolled in this course to gain some formal qualifications as I had previously only completed on the job training. I had looked at undertaking the Certificate III in Dental Assisting but it was only offered in Sydney, so I couldn t do it, she said. When I saw TAFE Western was offering it in Orange I was ecstatic. My employer was very supportive of me undertaking the course so I didn t hesitate to enrol. I learned new things and the training was on Tuesday and Thursday evening so I could balance it around work and family commitments. Whilst all the students enjoyed the practical learning in TAFE Western s, brand new state-of-the-art dental chair; student Stephanie Martin wants to study Dentistry on completion of the course. I have just completed my final year of Clinical Science at Charles Sturt University at Bathurst and hope to go on to Dentistry now, said Ms Martin. I am doing some work experience with a local denture technician and found this course very interesting. The Certificate III in Dental Assisting is a 12 month course and provides the knowledge and skills needed to work in assisting a dentist, dental hygienist or therapist during all health care procedures. 16

17 Ensuring TAFE Western is a vital part of western NSW TAFE presents trauma car for CSU paramedics A specially constructed pull-apart vehicle was officially handed-over to Charles Sturt University (CSU) by representatives of TAFE Western to help train paramedic students to free victims trapped in motor vehicle accidents. The Vice-Chancellor and President of CSU, Professor Andrew Vann received the extrication simulation car, known as the trauma car, from Ms Kate Baxter, Director of TAFE in Bathurst. Funding for the CSU Extrication Simulation Car was provided by a grant from Health Workforce Australia to better prepare CSU paramedic students for clinical placement. The unique design of the car was constructed by automotive apprentices at TAFE Western s Dubbo College. It permits the removal of all four doors, the pillars, the windshield and the roof, which allows students the same access to the patients as they would have when the mechanical Jaws of Life are used in the field. Once the simulation has been completed the car can be reconstructed for use by the next group of students. This simulator enables our paramedic students to experience a realistic extrication simulation, and it is unique to the paramedic program at Charles Sturt University, Professor Vann said. No other paramedic program in Australia has anything similar. I am proud of the ongoing partnership that has been developed between our paramedic program at Charles Sturt University and TAFE Western. Ms Kate Baxter, TAFE Western s Institute Director said, Our automotive students from Dubbo have done a fantastic job in reconstructing this car. This was a great opportunity for TAFE Western and Charles Sturt University to work in collaboration to build this unique trauma car and support the training of paramedics in western NSW. A second vehicle has also been donated to the University to be converted by TAFE Western students for paramedic training purposes. 17

18 EMBRACING NEW WAYS OF DOING BUSINESS UNDERGROUND MINING LOADER A FIRST FOR TAFE TAFE Western s Dubbo College celebrated the donation of a $100,000 underground loader from New Gold Inc. Peak Gold Mine. The Toro 1400 underground mining loader has an electronic controlled engine and transmission which will be used for the training and up-skilling of Heavy Vehicle Apprentices. Ms Kate Baxter, TAFE Western s Institute Director said, TAFE Western is proud to have machinery, such as this underground mining loader, to give students in western NSW the very best opportunities. No other TAFE college in New South Wales provides its students with the chance to learn and gain experience on this type of machinery, she said. Having the opportunity to work and learn in a hands-on environment on the most up to date mining plant and equipment will allow our apprentices to become work ready. I would like to thank and acknowledge New Gold Inc. Peak Gold Mine for this very generous donation. TAFE Western is committed to partnering with industry and providing the best possible training for apprentices in western NSW. Students at TAFE Western s Dubbo College purpose built Heavy Vehicle section already have the chance to work other underground equipment, as well the latest generation of mining and road transport diesel engines and equipment. 18

19 EMBRACING NEW WAYS OF DOING BUSINESS Cadia Cottage In 2013, TAFE Western officially unveiled its newest training facility, Cadia Cottage, donated by Newcrest Mining s Cadia Valley Operations. The purpose built cottage was designed to provide a safe and practical training environment for electrical apprentices across the Central West. Cadia Valley Operations (CVO) approached TAFE Western in 2011 to construct a training facility that would assist its electrical apprentices in gaining essential skills and experience in general/domestic electrical course work, as their current work environment did not provide this opportunity. CVO General Manager, Mr Tony McPaul, said that CVO and TAFE worked closely to develop a solution that would mutually benefit both parties, forming the idea to construct a building to simulate a real life domestic electrical environment. Cadia Cottage will allow our electrical apprentices to gain practical, hands-on experience in an environment outside the mining operations, Mr McPaul said. It provides a platform for apprentices to gain more diverse skills which better equip them for their careers in the future. It also provides a safe, practical environment to learn their trade under the close guidance of highly skilled TAFE trainers while meeting their statutory licence requirements. Ms Kate Baxter, TAFE Western s Institute Director said TAFE Western is proud to have equipment and infrastructure such as this residential electrical training facility to give students the very best opportunities. Having the opportunity to work and learn in a hands-on environment will allow our electrical students to become work ready upon completion of the training. TAFE Western is to working collaboratively with industry to develop a skill base that meets the current and future needs of NSW businesses. I would like to take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge Cadia Valley Operations for this very generous donation. We value our partnership with Cadia and look forward to continuing to work together to provide the best possible training for apprentices in western NSW. Cadia Cottage is a building constructed to replicate the electrical component of a domestic house. It features a classroom for theory based learning and the skeleton of a house, complete with a kitchen and electrical wiring which provides a practical, safe environment to gain skills in domestic electrical work an essential part of the Electrical trade course work through TAFE. Cadia Cottage has already received positive reviews from students who have commenced classes in the new facility. 19

20 EMBRACING NEW WAYS OF DOING BUSINESS Dubbo College installs new state-of-the-art automotive spray booth MUDGEE SKILLS CENTRE MEETS THE NEEDS OF INDUSTRY & THE COMMUNITY Each year, TAFE Western s Dubbo College provides training to more than 150 Automotive Vehicle Body students who want to specialise in panel beating or vehicle painting. To further TAFE Western s commitment to provide high quality, relevant and customised up-to-date training and facilities the Dubbo College installed a new state-of-theart PAN automotive spray booth, worth over $150,000. The new spray booth was officially unveiled in October 2013 at an automotive panel beating and vehicle painting industry trade night. Peter Allen, TAFE Western s Head Teacher of Panel Beating and Vehicle Painting said the spray booth has been specifically designed for TAFE Western to maximise teaching and learning experiences. The commissioning of the state-of-the-art spray booth is really exciting for TAFE and our students as it will provide training that is more aligned to industry. TAFE has reduced its use of solvent paints by 90 per cent over the past year and the new spray booth will assist with that as it is more adaptable to water based paints, which is the future of vehicle painting. Peter also added that the PAN spray booth is more environmentally friendly demonstrating Dubbo Colleges leadership in environmental sustainability. It will use one third of the electricity of the old spray booth we had and the output of toxins is greatly reduced, leaving less of a footprint on the environment. TAFE Western s Mudgee College Skills Centre has recently received a $230,000 injection of funds for upgrades to meet the rapidly growing demand for training from the local industry and community. The Mudgee Skills Centre, located at Cassilis Road, was established in 2011 to provide enhanced apprenticeship trade training in electro-technology, metal fabrication, welding and fitting and machining. Mr Brad Polak, Director of Education Delivery for Manufacturing, Engineering, Construction and Transport said that since the Skill Centre commenced the demand for apprenticeship training through the Centre has nearly doubled. He said, To service this increased demand for trade training we have been doing some significant upgrades to the Mudgee facility. Electro-Technology, Metal Fabrication, Welding and Fitting & Machining Apprentices can now get the skills they need locally without having to travel to Dubbo or Orange. TAFE Western is committed to the Mudgee community and local industries and these upgrades allow us to provide a higher level of training to meet the local industry and community and support the local economy. The upgrade included increasing the size of electrical specialist teaching areas, building a specialist hydraulics training room and installing six new lathes. 20

21 DEVELOPING AND SUPPORTING A PASSIONATE AND CAPABLE WORKFORCE TAFE Western offers a significant range of professional development opportunities each year to ensure staff possess the skills to succeed. TAFE Western s Strategic Plan places a high priority on, developing and supporting a passionate and capable workforce, because positive change for the future depends on the attitude and effort of the Institute staff. TAFE Western employs approximately 900 full-time equivalent staff. TAFE Western contributes between 1.0 and 1.3 per cent of the FTE employment in the statistical divisions in which it has a presence and between 1.1 and 1.4 per cent of household income. The Institute Director s Awards are TAFE Western s way of recognising the effectiveness, customer service excellence, innovation, commitment and the determination of staff to get results. TAFE Western offers a significant range of professional development opportunities each year to ensure staff possess the skills to succeed. Staff are also encouraged to participate in a number of annual forums. These forums feature networking opportunities designed to facilitate communication and relationship-building amongst staff who often collaborate on various projects and activities across multiple colleges of the Institute. STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE In 2013, TAFE Western undertook a review of its structure and governance framework. Throughout this process Kate Baxter, TAFE Western s Institute Director sought to communicate and involve as many staff as possible in the review. Starting with the first information gathering sessions through to the discussion paper and then in the detailed consultation phase. Through these three steps TAFE Western s staff made it clear that as an organisation, TAFE Western needed to reduce the span of control of managers to allow them to better support staff; increase our responsiveness to our customers, increase consistency, increase collaboration, reduce duplication, increase the accountability of leaders and position TAFE Western for market and financial sustainability. In consultation with TAFE Western s staff, Kate Baxter was able to develop a model to achieve all of these and more benefits. TAFE Western s staff played an important contribution in developing the organisations future. Full transition to TAFE Western s new structure was complete by December Through the transition phase TAFE Western provided staff with support in various ways. The new structure and governance framework was an important step in TAFE Western s planning for a new operating environment and in meeting the education and training needs of western NSW. 21

22 DEVELOPING AND SUPPORTING A PASSIONATE AND CAPABLE WORKFORCE 2013 INSTITUTE DIRECTOR S AWARDS Award for Achievement by an Individual Emma Dresser Teacher of Management Lindsay Griffith Head Teacher of Earthworks Leigh Maxwell Teacher of Nursing Birgit Newman Executive Assistant Brigid Palin Teacher of Visual Arts Mark Picker Internet Developer Jack Randell Teacher of Visual Arts and Design Mindy Smith Teacher of Child and Family Services Michael Stephenson General Assistant Elizabeth Wright Aboriginal Teacher Award for Achievement by a Team Manufacturing Team Ray Driscoll, Helen Strik, Dennis Byrne and Sue Blandford Maintenance and Servicing Team John Boon and Gary Whitelock Outdoor Recreation and Fitness Team Lorraine Smith, Simone Carroll - Germech, Ruth Hodgson, Rachel Cupitt, Michael Rofe and Natalie Purvis Vocational Access Head Teachers in the West Team Shane Kilby, Cara Schultz Award for Sustainable Practice Peter Allen Teacher of Vehicle Painting Lorne Butt Ecological Sustainability Coordinator Julie Mash Coonamble Campus Administrator TAFE WESTERN S AWARD WINNING OUTDOOR RECREATION AND FITNESS TEAM Commitment to providing industry standard training of the highest quality. The Outdoor Recreation and Fitness team has shown an outstanding capacity for reinventing itself in response to a challenging environment. The TVET (TAFE Delivered Vocational Education and Training at school) Outdoor Recreation program meets the needs of more than 40 schools and 400 students each year. Head Teacher, Dr Lorraine Smith and the rest of the team have an incredibly strong commitment to providing training of the highest quality. They are also responsible for a range of programs which are a great example of strong industry partnership and collaboration. One example of this over the last two years has been the rollout of online delivery across the team s fitness and outdoor recreation courses. Implementing this change has involved the team taking a collaborative approach to learning new skills and developing new delivery models. The Outdoor Recreation and Fitness team are passionate about what they do and have a reputation for strength of delivery and customer service. This is proven by the recognised fact that industry across regional and state boundaries seeks delivery from TAFE Western s Outdoor Recreation and Fitness team. 22

23 FINANCE TAFE WESTERN INSTITUTE ANNUAL REPORT FINANCIAL ACTIVITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2013 ( 000) Revenue Sales of Goods & Services*** 23,171 Grants & Contributions 4,293 Other Revenue 1,330 Total Revenue 28,794 Expenses Employee related expense 74,695 Other Expenses Utilities 1,851 Property Maintenance 2,139 Other Operating Expenses 15,442 Total non-employee related expenses 19,432 Total Expenses** 94,127 *** Income from Administration Charge, commercial activities, special/tendered programs and trading activities is summarised at Sale of Goods & Services ** Total expenses includes expenditure extracted for targeted programs Institute Expenditure on Targeted Programs** Disabilities Programs 920 Outreach 0 Aboriginal Education Programs 1,236 Productivity Places Program 755 Pre Apprenticeship Training 0 Literacy Language and Numeracy 1,262 Skilled Shortage Programs 1,781 Traineeships 2,259 Corrective Services Courses 749 Enrolled Nursing 0 VET Delivered in Schools 6,324 Total 15,286 23

24 Bathurst Coonamble Grenfell Orange Panorama Avenue 2795 Phone: Fax: Bourke Oxley Street (PO Box 510) 2840 Phone: Fax: Brewarrina Bourke Street (PO Box 213) 2839 Phone: Fax: Broken Hill 248 Argent Street 2880 Phone: Fax: Cobar 45 Bathurst Street 2835 Phone: Fax: Condobolin Cnr Turner and High Streets (PO Box 155) 2877 Phone: Fax: Dubbo Street (PO Box 200) 2829 Phone: Fax: Cowra Carleton Street 2794 Phone: Fax: Dubbo Myall Street (PO Box 787) 2830 Phone: Fax: Dunedoo Digilah Street (PO Box 6) 2844 Phone: Fax: Forbes Cnr Browne and Harold Streets 2871 Phone: Fax: Gilgandra Wamboin Street (PO Box 48) 2827 Phone: Fax: Cnr Rose and East Streets 2810 Phone: Fax: Lightning Ridge Kaolin Street (PO Box 525) 2834 Phone: Fax: Lithgow 2 Hill Street (PO Box 297) 2790 Phone: Fax: Menindee Bear Street 2879 Phone: Fax: Mudgee 269 Ulan Rd (PO Box 297) 2850 Phone: Fax: Nyngan Cobar Street (PO Box 69) 2825 Phone: Fax: March Street (PO Box 1059) 2800 Phone: Fax: Parkes 25 Bushman Street 2870 Phone: Fax: Walgett 42 Arthur Street (PO Box 186) 2832 Phone: Fax: Warren Burton Street (PO Box 174) 2824 Phone: Fax: Wellington 43 Maughan Street (PO Box 92) 2820 Phone: Fax: Wilcannia Reid Street 2836 Phone: Fax: SYDNEY Wilcannia Broken Hill Menindee More Information The Institute Director s Unit is located at TAFE Western, 1587 Forest Road, (PO Box 2161) Orange 2800 Phone (02) Bourke Cobar Brewarrina Nyngan Condobolin Coonamble Parkes Forbes Lightning Ridge Warren Grenfell Walgett Dubbo Wellington Gilgandra Dunedoo Orange Cowra Mudgee Bathurst Lithgow For further information call or visit Follow us on Twitter: Find us on facebook: 24