More than 130 of the state’s most talented students, trainees and apprentices gathered in the Hunter for a three-day training intensive covering 35 skills categories.
The 2014 TAFE NSW Skills Development Camp was held from 3-5 April, at Hunter TAFE’s Hamilton, Glendale, Kurri Kurri and Newcastle campuses.
The Camp showcased ‘Team NSW’ contestants preparing for the WorldSkills Australia National Competition, to be held in Perth in September 2014.
Over the three days students participated together in a series of practical workshops in areas including cookery, manufacturing and engineering, building and construction, hairdressing, fashion and beauty, business services and IT.
More than 100 industry experts, trainers and mentors were also present to assist competitors in reviewing assessment material, strategising and identifying key areas of focus.
WorldSkills Regional Hunter TAFE Coordinator, Ian Vickery, said Hunter TAFE was proud to welcome NSW’s best students and coaches to our region’s world-class facilities.
He said the skills development intensive helped competitors develop training plans and build positive team spirit in the lead up to the national competition.
“Students actively engaged with mentors, trainers and supporters in addition to Hunter TAFE teachers, learning real-world skills from industry experts,” Ian said.
Jake Putan, a student participating in hairdressing said he had enjoyed the experience.
“I had the opportunity to learn new skills that I wouldn’t have received anywhere else and it give me a chance to represent Australia that no one else can offer,” Jake said.
All nine NSW WorldSkills regions were represented at the Camp, including the Hunter, Illawarra, Macquarie, Mid North Coast, New England, Northern Rivers, Riverina-Murray, Sydney and Sydney West.
The purpose of the WorldSkills competition series is to build Australia’s skills culture by inspiring young people, celebrating skills excellence and providing them with an opportunity to showcase their talent.
WorldSkills Australia aims to develop and nurture the skills of young Australians through regional, national and international competitions.
Image | Jake Putan
