Thirty-two staff members from 17 Sydney companies have signed up at TAFE Ultimo for a new Australian Sign and Graphics Association (ASGA) program aimed at upgrading the skills of printing industry workers.
ASGA sourced NSW state government funding for the pilot project which will focus on increasing the number of skilled workers who can supervise and mentor apprentices on the job.
“Our research into the sign and graphics industry indicated that not only was there a shortage of apprentices going into the trade, but also a distinct lack of qualified staff in workplaces across Australia able to supervise and monitor apprentices who might be taken on by employers,” Michael Punch, GM, ASGA, told Print21. “Our first course of action was to attempt to rectify the latter challenge and we started in Sydney because we were able to source significant state government funding to mount a pilot project here.”
“Seventeen sign and graphics companies from areas including Brookvale, Blacktown, Springwood and Mulgrave nominated 32 participants," said Punch. "Our NSW Industry Reference Group selected ten key units for assessment and in the initial information session last week at TAFE Ultimo, most of those present indicated they were proficient in nearly all the units. It’s now up to the assessor to get proof of that proficiency by obtaining supportive paperwork or by a visit to the workplaces. Where top-up training is required, that will be arranged between the assessor and the participant.”
Once the project is completed, those who receive an accreditation certificate will be able to both supervise and monitor apprentices in their workplace, in accordance with current regulations for the CERT 111 qualification.
“It is a pilot project but its success will give us the opportunity to seek federal funding so that the project can be replicated across all states and territories in Australia,” Punch said.