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Tec-News July 2011

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Welcome to Tec-NQ's First E-Newsletter

In an effort to reduce it's carbon footprint, Tec-NQ's newsletter will now come to you delivered in an e-newsletter format.

A Message from the CEO

Mid way through the year is an opportunity for us to take stock; we continue to support the development of 255 school based students and to enhance trade capability for 341 full time apprentices. The growth of the full time business is a reflection of our reputation for quality training in trade areas. The employment market for our trade apprentices remains in a flux as we witness more small trade businesses going out of business but we have managed to increase the number of apprentice sign ups each month.

We are actively involved in the V8 weekend so watch out for the Tec-NQ logos.

Tom.

A Word From Our Industry Liaison Officer

Engineering

Engineering has seen substantial growth this year primarily due to the addition of the Certificate III MEM30205 Engineering Mechanical Diesel Fitting training package. The growth in full time diesel fitting enrolments has been phenomenal with several area employers on board including Sucrogen, Townsville City Council and the Burdekin Shire Council. We've seen enquiries from as far away as Mackay.

Area suppliers have been keen to support this program with their donations of resources. As such, management has made significant investment in training resources as well including the development of a dedicated training facility for diesel fitting on site. Recent feedback from both apprentices and employers has been positive thus far.

Apprentice uptake from our school-based program has been ramping up with several new apprentice sign-ups taking place in the fitting & turning and boilermaking trades. Congratulations new apprentices and keep up the good work. Many thanks to the employers supporting this program.

Automotive Mechanical

Automotive has taken off recently after a slow start to the year due to the extended wet season. We've had many employers contact us requesting to trial new apprentices and the calibre of this year's light and heavy vehicle student is promising. Tec-NQ's automotive facilitator, Dave Chellingworth and I have spent significant time focusing on employability and mechanical skills with these students and the feedback from initial work experience placements has been excellent.

If you are considering putting on an apprentice in these areas or are looking for a training provider for your existing apprentices, please contact me to discuss how Tec-NQ can provide this support for your business.

Regards,
Jennifer Trybula
Industry Liaison Officer - Engineering/Automotive Mechanical

Meet Jessica, NTP Forklifts' first female apprentice

In April this year, 18 year old Jessica Greer commenced her Heavy Vehicle apprenticeship with NTP’s Forklifts Townsville branch. Jessica was successful in gaining her apprenticeship through an ongoing school based program with Tec-NQ. Jessica has joined the NTP Townsville branch during her final year at school, after successfully completing job placements with Mack Trucks Australia, Cummins Diesel Company and other local heavy mechanical repair businesses.

Jessica had not previously experienced a placement in the Forklift Industry but after her initial two week period with NTP she requested an extended placement. This was approved by both NTP and Tec-NQ, and based on Jessica’s exemplary aptitude to electronics and hydraulics she was subsequently offered an apprenticeship after her second placement period.

Brian Tuohy from NTP forklifts said “Jessica’s appointment highlights NTP’s commitment to providing equal opportunity employment, will all indicators thus far proving what a fantastic asset Jessica is turning out to be”.

Tec-NQ would like to congratulate Jessica and wish her the best of luck with her apprenticeship!

The Importance of Apprentice's Attending Training and Employment Support.

Training your staff, keeping them motivated and up-to-date with industry trends and new technologies is essential to achieving that goal. Staff benefit too, learning new skills and becoming a valued asset in any organisation. Training brings direct benefits to business and can be calculated as a return on investment. We are seeking your support in releasing your apprentice to attend their scheduled blocks, this will ensure that they do not fall behind.

School Reports

The end of Semester One is here and it is time for the college facilitators to take a moment to reflect on the performance and achievement of school-based students. It has been an exceptionally busy semester for all school enrolments and there is much to report on across the trade and academic areas.

All student reports will be posted to parents / guardians on Wednesday, 20th July 2011. Can we ask that all parents / guardians take an opportunity to review the reports and congratulate their son/daughter for their hard work and achievement over the last 6 months. Please pay particular attention to the comments provided in the reports, particularly if it identifies that a parent teacher conference is recommended. Please contact college reception on 4779 2199 to make appointments with teachers.

Earn the Right to Work

Earn the Right to Work Program is a critical aspect in developing students employability skills and transitioning them into an apprentice that meets the standards required by industry.

All apprentices within the college are expected to consistently demonstrate the college standards. The college reserves the right to not send students to work experience, interviews and/or employment if the student is failing to consistently demonstrate the required standards.

Standards within the college are:

1.      Attendance at College

2.      Behaviour at College

3.      Results in QSA subjects

4.      Progression in Trade studies

5.      Uniform compliance

6.      Safe Behaviours

7.      Work Experience Reports or Feedback from Employer

Please be advised that if any student presents at college in the incorrect uniform they will be sent home. Our uniforms are part of our safety procedures and must be strictly adhered to.

Queensland Training Awards

Zack CollardOn Saturday July 16th, the Queensland Training Awards will be held at Jupiter's Casino. These awards are an annual event recognising individuals and organisations who strive for success, best practice and innovation in training. The awards are the state’s highest recognition for excellence in vocational education and training. This year, plumbing student Zack Collard has been nominated for School Based Apprentice of the Year - a category won last year by Tec-NQ student Curtley Cunningham. Tec-NQ would like to wish Zack Collard all the best for these awards.

Too Deadly!!

Firstly, Welcome to the ‘colourful’ part of the Tec-NQ’s newsletter. This article will be the first of many ‘yarns’ highlighting what us ‘Murris’ are up to.
The first order of business is to hail our new Indigenous Liaison Officer; Wayne Santo to the team of Tec-NQ, in order to share the workload of our ever busy Indigenous Programs Coordinator; Heather Rice.

You may ask what else has been happening here at Tec-NQ, well where  do we start? The best place would have to be at the beginning...........

January 2011 rolled around heralding a new cohort of year 11's and year 12’s. Overall for this year saw figures of indigenous students’ enrolment total of 19 Year 11’s and a total of 14 Year 12’s entering the college. We have seen the majority of Year 12’s continuing of their path, heading into their second year of their apprenticeship, whilst we have seen some Year 11’s having the fortune of being ‘signed up’ to begin on their pathway of being a tradesperson in their chosen field.

However, this year as always we have taken time out to observe our ‘culture’, first being of mention is our continued participation in the annual NAIDOC celebrations. This year’s celebrations have taken a different approach and we have extended past ourselves and into the community in the form of donations.

In alignment with the Tec-NQ’s curriculum, the students undertook trade projects in the form of tables that were donated to North Townsville Community Centre and the Cleveland Training Centre. This provided an opportunity to showcase the pride and skills in a unique context which were well received by both organisations.

However, this has not overshadowed some of our student’s efforts by the awarding of funding through QATSIF (Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation). Tec-NQ’s 2011 recipient was Elliot Summers who aspires upon completion to seek a career in the Defence Force.

Some of our students also participate in extracurricular activities; the most noteworthy student’s attainment is this particular endeavour is Reagan Stutley whose ability as children’s book writer has seen him published through the BLACK INK PRESS who have printed hisbook ‘At the Creek with my, Bro’ and will be launched on the 15th July at the Thuringowa Library.

Last of all, but not least, it would be amiss of us not acknowledge the efforts of all our students who have invested a substantial amount of work to complete their studies to reach this stage of the year, keep in mind however we are only halfway through the training year and therefore a gentle reminder to maintain your focus and motivation.

Year 11 Electrical Apprentice saves the Day!

Year 11 Electrical student, Connor Young, a bright ‘spark’ in the eyes of staff at Tec-NQ, quickly put knowledge he gained whilst at Tec-NQ into action when he saved the day. Connor faced a ‘worse case’ scenario on the job site.  He was holding a ladder for his supervising tradesman electrician, who was working partially in the ceiling.  When Connor realised the tradesman was being electrocuted, he quickly took action.  Connor kicked the ladder away, laid the tradesman on the floor and immediately commenced CPR.  Whilst conducting CPR, Connor managed to call the ambulance and seek emergency assistance.
As a result of Connor’s quick thinking and using the knowledge gained from the college, Connor avoided a potentially life threatening situation.  Well done Connor.  Staff and Students from Tec-NQ would like to acknowledge and applaud you on your exceptional actions. 

Year 11 Leadership Parade and BBQ 15th July 2011

Tec-NQ will be holding a Leadership Parade for all students in Year 11 on Friday 15th July 2011.  The purpose of the parade is to formally induct our new school leaders and acknowledge their contributions they have made to the college so far. The parade will also recognise the efforts of Connor Young, for his life saving efforts, calmness under pressure and quick thinking.  Parents of the school leaders along with Connor Young’s parents are cordially invited to attend. The parade will start at 1pm and will go for approximately half an hour.  After the assembly, all students will be treated to a BBQ lunch to celebrate with Connor and the student leaders their achievements and success.  Students will be dismissed from college at the usual time of 2:30pm.

Senior Jackets

The 2011 senior jackets are currently on sale at reception. This year students have chosen a "bomber jacket" style and they are able to have their names printed on the back. In order to recieve these jackets in a timely manner the clsoing date for orders is Friday July 15th. The jackets cost $130 and must be paid for in full prior to ordering. Please call reception on 47792 199 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

2011 Awards Night

The 2011 awards evening will be held this year on Thursday the 10th November at Jupiter's Hotel & Casino. The Tec-NQ Awards is our opportunity to give recognition to the students and apprentices for their achievements and the community effort which has enabled it.  The Tec-NQ Awards celebrates the support of area employers who offer valuable work experience and career opportunities to our students and community organisations that provide additional support.  It also celebrates the efforts of the many parents and staff who work hard to ensure that these young men and women achieve the career success they strive for. Tickets will go on sale in October.

2011 Apprentice Ball

The 2011 Apprentice Ball will be held this year on Friday the 18th November at Jupiter's Hotel & Casino. Only year 12 students and their partners are able to attend this event and the tickets  will go on sale in late August. For further information please call  reception on 47792 199 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Changed Contact Details

It is important that Tec-NQ is notified of any changes to your addresses, whether that be a home, postal or even an email address as important documents  (such as Statements of Attainment) are sent out on a regular basis. Please call reception on 47792 199 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

 
News / Media
Sat 19 May 8:00AM
Career Expo - Bowen
Tue 22 May 8:30AM
Managing Dismissals and Terminations
Tue 29 May 7:00AM
Understanding Flexibility Arrangements Under Fair Work
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