Fast tracking qualifications
Western Institute offers a number of pathways to assist experienced workers qualify as quickly as possible. These include Recognition for Prior Learning, Flexi-Trade (see Fast Track Recognition Services and a new initiative to trial fast-tracking of apprentice training.
The project to review apprenticeship training and increase the number of qualified tradespeople gaining employment in industry is being conducted by TAFE NSW Western Institute and funded by the Commonwealth government.
The Institute is working to develop pathways that reduce the amount of time taken to complete entire apprenticeships in a way that ensures quality and meets the needs of industry.
Apprenticeships involved with this scheme will include bricklaying, carpentry, commercial cooking, hairdressing and heavy vehicle automotive trades and the plan is to pilot fast track training with 14 apprentices in each of these trade areas during the second half of 2008.
It is hoped that by removing time-based restrictions on qualifications and by enabling students to achieve their qualifications as soon as they can become competent will be an incentive for more people to become involved with apprenticeship training.
