ACBC Monthly Newsletter – October 2015


Message from the CEO

The VET sector has come under increased scrutiny in recent months and it seems like there is another negative news story about the industry every day. However, as a graduate of vocational education with 23 years of experience in the industry, I have witnessed the many life-changing benefits of the sector that far outweigh the negative news we hear about.

VET has evolved since I completed my vocational course in 1992. Some courses were non-accredited at that time, but are now regulated to ensure that all vocational qualifications deliver quality education and training to students. Three years after completing my course I founded the Australian Careers Business College, which will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in the next few months. Over these years I have been proud to witness thousands of our graduates launch successful careers —and many of them are now leaders in their fields.

We need to keep in mind that the news reports we read about VET providers are not always accurate. For instance, when reporting on employment after graduation, many of these reports fail to consider those who decide to continue their education at university.

Despite the negative news, the majority of vocational education providers offer quality programs that give students valuable skills to begin rewarding careers and contribute to society. I recently had the opportunity to meet with the Minister for Education and Training, Senator Simon Birmingham, who understands what quality vocational education is and who provides it.

Given the options available, it’s important for School Careers Advisors and students to examine vocational education providers before making a decision. In particular, look for a provider that offers nationally recognised qualifications. Many organisations seem similar and may have names that closely resemble another organisation, so do your homework and make sure you are accurately informed. You can start by visiting www.training.gov.au and search for the RTO provider number. If you are unsure of the provider number, go to the organisation’s website to obtain it. In addition, hands-on experience is an essential part of career preparedness, so look for an organisation that offers work experience to complement in-class learning.

The unique Work Placement we offer, enables our students to gain insights on what it’s like to work in their chosen field — plus they get the opportunity to make important industry contacts, giving them an advantage in launching their careers.

For the record, ACBC does not engage agents to recruit students on our behalf nor do we use gimmicks to entice students. In 2013 we had our re-registration audit. We were deemed compliant against all standards and to date remain a low-risk provider.

I believe in quality vocational education and training, and despite the negativity that some providers are bringing upon our industry, I stand as a witness to the many successes our industry has brought to our nation.

If I can be of assistance to anyone who may have concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at ann@acbc.nsw.edu.au or on (02) 98240000.

It’s now time to give you the latest at ACBC. Change is in the air as we enter the final month of spring. Our students are seeing their hard work pay off by reaching their academic and career goals. Many have already been offered full-time roles after they graduate, while others have received early offers to study at Western Sydney University, Australian Catholic University and Macquarie University.

This is also the time of year when many high school students are eagerly awaiting their HSC results and are not sure about their next steps. Regardless of the outcome of their HSC exams, they need to remember that there are many options available for continuing their education and starting a career. Vocational education should not be viewed as the second best choice, but a viable option that can open many doors. It gives students practical job skills that can make them productive from day one in their chosen career or be a stepping stone for university studies.

Have a great week!

To view the rest of the October 2015 Monthly Newsletter click here.