New Ways to Support Learning in VET Jim Davidson Deputy Secretary Department of Education, Science and Training CEET Conference 28 October 2005

What I will cover Outline key features of new national training system Australian Government priorities for the new national system and the role of DEST Challenges and opportunities for VET Practitioners to support learning in VET

Key features of new national training system Governance: New Legislation Multilateral and Bilateral Agreements Ministerial Council National Senior Officials Committee Action Groups

Australian Government Priorities Industry and business needs drive training Better quality training and outcomes Processes are simplified, streamlined and enhance national consistency Young people gain wide range of lasting skills Training opportunities expanded n areas of skill shortage

The Future VET Environment for VET practitioners Demographic changes Changing nature of work - (full-time, part-time, casual, seasonal, contract) Mobile labour force Demand for more highly trained, skilled and flexible workforce

Opportunities and Challenges to support learning in VET VET Workforce capability building and professional development Flexible learning options Training Packages – outcomes of the High Level Review

VET Workforce Capability Building TAFE Workplace Reforms that:  encourage greater flexibility and capacity to respond to local industry and community needs in TAFEs  introduce more flexible employment arrangements in TAFEs  support stronger leadership and authority for TAFE Directors including recruitment and remuneration  reward high performance by employees

A Highly Skilled & Professional VET Workforce Professionalism and Professional Development Strategic Partnerships Organisational and cultural change

Flexible Learning Australian Flexible Learning Framework  Goal: a flexible VET system which meets diverse client needs and helps them succeed in a global environment  3 key components: — Client engagement – strengthen the role of industry, individuals & communities in shaping VET provision to meet client needs — Provide flexibility and innovation – build capacity of VET workforce & organisations to use ICT to improve service delivery — VET system support – improve the policy, regulatory and system environment and VET business models which affect the uptake of e-learning.

High Level Review of Training Packages The key messages from the High Level Review were:  The need for industry to specify skill needs  The need to have portable qualifications The Review also recommended  The need for more emphasis on good design rather than more rules  The need for generic skills to be front and centre  The need for more rigorous and inclusive development and review process, including use of broader evidence of skill needs.

Recommendations continued…. The need for development of ‘skill sets’ to supplement existing packaging rules for qualifications but not erode the status of full qualifications The need to reduce duplication and achieve greater synergies Employability Skills to be incorporated into Training Packages The capacity of training provider to be developed to deliver training to the standard industry requires. High Level Review of Training Packages continued

Challenges and Opportunities for supporting learning in VET Create a VET system characterised by:  High performing RTOs who work closely with industry and employers  Maximise the possibilities of responsiveness and flexibility  Empower teachers - training packages empower teachers to design learning and training around the competencies  Savvy use of technology and alternative strategies for training delivery  Promote and Reward Innovation, Creativity and Excellence

THANK YOU