SCHOLARSHIPS HELP SKILLED WORKERS GAIN QUALIFICATIONS

A new State Government initiative is providing an extra incentive for skilled workers to gain a formal qualification through recognition of their existing skills and knowledge.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said 520 Skills First Scholarships were available to people who enrol in specific Certificate III level and above qualifications at TAFE before 30 June 2007.

“As part of our Government’s $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan, we want to encourage more people to gain a vocational education and training qualification,” Mr Welford said.

“This is an incentive for tradespeople and associate professionals, who have already developed a wide range of skills and experiences throughout their working lives, to become formally qualified.

“Up to $1000 will be provided to the TAFE institute to subsidise the Skills First recognition of prior learning process when a person enrols in a qualification.

“This means candidates may only need to pay fees for required ‘gap’ training to get their qualification.

“The Skills First recognition of prior learning process lets people have their professional abilities properly evaluated.

“It also identifies any specific areas where extra training is required to gain a qualification.”

Scholarships may be available for trade recognition for people who enrol in Certificate III level and above trade qualifications in the areas of automotive, engineering, retail baking, hospitality (commercial cookery), and cabinet making.

Scholarships may also be available for people who enrol in Certificate IV level and above qualifications in the para-professional areas of business, information technology, children’s services, community services, tourism and hospitality, and disability work.

“This is a positive step toward refocusing training to meet skills shortages in high level occupations and recognising that experience does pay,” Mr Welford said.

To find out more about the scholarships contact your local TAFE institute.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000