The Action Group, which will develop new client advisory mechanisms and develop national priorities, strategies and performance measures for the bilateral agreements, met for the first time on 29 November 2005. Meeting outcomes include agreement on the Action Group Terms of Reference and membership, and establishment of three sub-groups to progress work on developing advisory mechanisms (the Indigenous Equity Sub-group, Disability Equity Sub-group and Equity Sub-group). Sub-groups are to finalise their membership before Christmas and to begin to develop methodologies to consult on possible advisory mechanisms in the New Year. Further information is available at:
http://www.dest.gov.au/sectors/training_skills/policy_issues_reviews/key_issues/nts/#Action_Groups or by contacting the Action Group Secretariat on (08) 8463 5592
Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, today announced the establishment of the Institute for Trade Skills Excellence. The Institute will promote and advance the quality and industry relevance of vocational and technical education for the trades in Australia and elevate the status of traditional trade as career choices. The Media Release is on the DEST website at:
http://www.dest.gov.au/Ministers/Media/Hardgrave/2005/12/h001211205.aspThe National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) has today released a series of publications concentrating on such issues as education and training, vocational education in schools, survey methods for the VTE sector and training skilled workers. They are:
This publication identifies progress made in vocational education in schools and concludes that vocational programs in schools are meeting expectations and have achieved a legitimate place in the school curriculum, however, several implementation issues still remain. It is available at:
http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/1653.htmlThis technical report, aimed at vocational and technical education (VTE) performance policy-makers and planners, looks at options for determining more about, firstly, students in VTE who do not complete their training, and secondly, the longer term outcomes of students in VTE who undertake apprentices and trainees. It is available at:
http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/1651.html
The study offers insights into the way advanced skills are developed by mature workers in a demanding industry, and suggests ways in which the VTE sector could respond. It is available at: http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/1597.html
This publication examines the use of qualifications within the recruitment searching and decision making processes undertaken by employers in the labour market showing that employers value previous work experience and personal qualities. It is available at:
http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/1627.htmlWishing you a safe, memorable and very happy time over the festive season. Also THANK YOU to everyone who has contributed to Fast Facts over the last year – it is very much appreciated. This is the last edition of Fast Facts for 2005, so see you all in the new year.