MORE than 100 community and mining industry representatives celebrated 38 students on Friday night for successfully completing the TAFE NSW Muswellbrook Mining Skills Program at the annual presentation evening.
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The award-winning initiative is designed for first year apprentices and places a strong emphasis on safety awareness and covers training in basic hand tool skills across four different trades including electrical, fitting and machining, metal fabrication and welding, and automotive.
TAFE NSW Muswellbrook Mining Skills Program manager Kieran Kelly says the evening aimed to acknowledge the achievements of all learners.
“The Mining Skills Presentation Awards is a fantastic night to recognise the 38 students and what they have achieved, in front of their community, family and industry peers,” Mr Kelly said.
“The program is in its 13th consecutive year and, in 2018, we had seven females and 31 males complete the program.”
Each year two pupils are presented with an outstanding student award, nominated and recognised by the teaching staff for their attitude, aptitude, attention to detail, skill development and the completion of the special projects.
The highest achiever for the year is also announced as the Dux.
“I am proud to congratulate James Drayton, an apprentice at AGL Macquarie, and Lauren Booth, an apprentice at Yancoal/Glencore, Hunter Valley Operations, as the two recipients of this year’s outstanding student award,” Mr Kelly said.
“It is a great honour to also congratulate Jennifer Chalker, an apprentice at BHP Mt Arthur, who is the highest achiever and Dux of the 2018 TAFE NSW Mining Skills Program.”
Mr Kelly said the evening not only celebrated the students’ achievements, but was a great opportunity to showcase the course, which continues to capture the interest of leading industry partners in the Hunter Valley.
“The program teaches apprentices basic skills, particularly with regard to safety, and emphasises the importance of being aware of what other people are doing in the workplace to ensure safety precautions are met,” he said.
“As well as learning technical skills, apprentices who take part in the program also receive training in financial awareness, health and nutrition, personal fitness, communication skills and road safety awareness.”
To learn more, visit www.tafensw.edu.au
