Graduation ceremony at Hedland College

16/4/94

To secure a career path in the 1990s, Western Australians need to be involved in on-going training.

Education Minister Norman Moore said today Western Australians who took advantage of TAFE and other training opportunities would reap the rewards.

Mr Moore attended last night's 1994 graduation ceremony at Hedland College and congratulated the 192 graduates during the ceremony in Port Hedland.

"These students have reached an important milestone in their lives and have positioned themselves strongly in today's job market," the Minister said.

"This is a significant milestone in what should be a path of on-going training and upgrading of each individual's skills through their career."

Mr Moore paid tribute to three award-winning students:

·       Jill Watson - winner of the Hedland College Council Academic Prize for the top graduating student.  Jill, who has two young (pre-school) children, graduated with an Associate Diploma in Applied Science (Enrolled Nursing).  She was working as an enrolled nurse at Port Hedland Regional Hospital and planned to continue studying to become a Registered Nurse.

·       Christopher Clowser - winner of the Special Achievement Award in the Certificate in Trades Studies (Electrical Tradesperson).  Chris, a mature-age student, completed his course in two years rather than the standard three years, and also completed units in another course area (refrigeration).

·       Rebecca Harraway - the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Hospitality and Tourism.  Rebecca won a gold medal at the Broome Salon Culinaire competition for apprentices and has gained a prestigious apprenticeship with Qantas from among 1,000 applicants.

Mr Moore said Hedland College had a course completion rate of 81 per cent in 1993, with nine out of 10 students satisfied with their course.  More than half of last year's graduates were now employed and the remainder had enrolled in further study.

Last year the college established the Pilbara Industry Education Network for Year 11 and Year 12 students to undertake vocational units at the college as part of their secondary studies.

"In addition, customised fee-for-service training at Hedland College has increased by 20 per cent, building on the massive 145 per cent jump in the previous year," the Minister said.

Media contact:  Ross Storey 321 1444 / 222 9595