“The Future of Gippsland’s Australian Technical College is Assured”

21 May 2009

“The Future of Gippsland’s Australian Technical College is Assured”

East Gippsland Institute of TAFE is delighted that the Federal Government has announced the incorporation of the Australian Technical College – Gippsland (ATC-Gippsland) into East Gippsland Institute of TAFE’s operations.

From July 13, 2009 the ATC-Gippsland will become a dedicated College within the auspices of East Gippsland TAFE.

Importantly, the College will continue to offer the same industry-driven, Apprenticeship and VCE/ VCAL options to young people in years 11 and 12 – that have been so successfully offered through the ATC-Gippsland.

CEO of East Gippsland TAFE, Ms Angela Hutson, said “East Gippsland TAFE is absolutely dedicated to ensuring that the original ethos of the ATC-Gippsland approach is nurtured and maintained.”

“We will do this by combining the existing strong relationships that the ATC-G and East Gippsland TAFE have with industry, employers and local secondary schools” said Ms Hutson.

East Gippsland TAFE commits that all currently enrolled students will be able to continue and complete their VCE, VCAL and apprenticeship training programs.
“Parents can feel confident that the provision of training will continue to be of the highest quality – both for existing students, and for the new students we are sure will continue to choose this fabulous option into the future” said Ms Hutson.
During the transition period, East Gippsland TAFE and the existing ATC-Gippsland Board and staff will work closely with parents, students, existing ATC-Gippsland staff, and employers to ensure all partners are included and informed.

Ms Barbara Fulton, Chair of East Gippsland TAFE’s Board said “I wholeheartedly commend the work of all ATC-Gippsland Board members who have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of ATC-Gippsland, and who have turned their considerable expertise to working with EG TAFE to ensure a seamless transition, and viable future, for students, parents and employers.”

“Employers of apprentices can feel confident that the apprenticeships and programs undertaken by students, and the support available to both students and employers, will continue” said Ms Ann Furphy, EG TAFE’s Project Transition Manager.
Under the new arrangements, students will have access to a range of state-of-the-art facilities as well as support services at East Gippsland TAFE, including study support, career planning, counselling and library services.