Agricultural training returns to Glenormiston

AGRICULTURAL training has returned to Glenormiston as South West TAFE students begin their studies at the historic site this week.

Ten trainees in the Certificate III in Agriculture course started on Monday, October 30 after it was announced earlier last month that South West TAFE would begin using some of the Glenormiston facilities for training.

South West TAFE chief executive officer Mark Fidge said that through our engagement with our students we believe we have developed a program that provides a fantastic, rewarding experience as they begin their journey in the Food and Fibre industry.

As part of the course, the trainees will attend Glenormiston College for six one-week workshops throughout the 12 months of their course.

South West TAFE deputy chief executive officer Madelyn Lettieri said teachers would then visit the students once a month at their workplaces where they would apply the workshop knowledge to on-farm work.

“Several south-west farmers have offered to open up their farm operations for the group of students to visit as part of their block training so that all students will get the opportunity to be exposed to a diverse range of operations and expertise within the region,” she said.

The course covers animal health, business and emerging technology, giving students practical skills for a career in the agricultural field. Students will also have the opportunity to hear from industry experts on the emerging opportunities for careers in the food and fibre sector.

“The students will get to hear from industry experts who will come in to speak about industry trends and they’ll get to look at innovative farms in the district,” Ms Lettieri said.

She said South West TAFE had been working closely with an industry advisory group since the very beginning of the development of this new course model to gain advice on the course design and content to ensure the graduates had the skills and knowledge that industry needed.

“The real advantage though is that there’ll be a group of students together undertaking intensive training and they’ll take that experience back onto their farms,” she said.

 If you’re interested in finding out more about this course contact South West TAFE on 1300 648 911 or visit swtafe.vic.edu.au