The Victorian Government has confirmed it will establish a new TAFE teacher academy dedicated to upskilling and attracting teachers to strengthen the state’s TAFE workforce.
The Vocational Education and Training (VET) Educator Academy will be a one-stop-shop that will benefit more than 4,000 Victorian TAFE educators, school-based VET educators and future practitioners with professional learning, career development and pathways into the profession, said Victorian Minister for Skills and TAFE, Colin Brooks.
“Victoria’s TAFE teachers are training the next generation of tradies, carers, technicians and other skilled workers our economy relies on – this academy will help ensure we have more of them,” said Mr Brooks.
“By creating more pathways into VET teaching and investing in our existing educators, we’re strengthening Victoria’s TAFE network and giving more Victorians the opportunity to gain the skills they need for rewarding careers.”
This initiative is part of a $10 million joint funding package between the Federal and Victorian Governments to strengthen the VET workforce under the National Skills Agreement.
The Academy, led by Chisholm Institute from its Frankston campus, will promote professional development opportunities so educators can access the latest skills and knowledge to deliver world-class training.
“Chisholm is committed to excellence in vocational education. Hosting the academy puts Chisholm at the centre of major workforce reforms and helps ensure educators are ready for the jobs of the future,” said Chisholm Institute CEO, Stephen Varty.
“TAFE is the largest employer of VET staff and the biggest trainer of VET educators in the country, that’s why we’re backing it,” said Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles.
“The Albanese and Allan Labor Governments are focused on growing TAFE across Victoria – so that every Victorian from the suburbs to the regions can benefit from the opportunities that a TAFE qualification provides.
“Our TAFE teachers make possible so much for so many, and the VET Educator Academy will help attract more Victorians into the profession, strengthen career pathways and ensure students are prepared for the jobs of the future.”
Under the national Free TAFE program, VET Workforce has been included as an in-demand area.
In Victoria, the Government has prioritised VET education as a career by making the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment a Free TAFE course.
More than 13,000 people have studied this qualification under Victoria’s Free TAFE program since 2019.
