SA Training Awards now open – ECEC nominations encouraged

Nominations for the South Australian Training Awards are now open, recognising the achievements of the state’s best vocational education and training (VET) students, including apprentices and trainees, trainers, training providers, schools and employers. Winners will be announced at a Gala dinner in September.

 

A world-class skills sector is critical to the future economic strength of the state and these prestigious awards showcase the talents of training organisations, students and employers who are leading the way, including in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector.

 

There are 13 award categories in 2023 – six for individuals and seven for organisations – as well as the Voters’ Choice Award which is presented to the public’s favourite individual finalist.

 

The awards have also been expanded this year to introduce a new state-based award, the Excellence in Diversity Award. This new award category provides organisations delivering accredited and non-accredited training with the opportunity to demonstrate their outstanding commitment to supporting students and/or employees in overcoming significant barriers or disadvantages to participate in VET.

 

Award categories include:

 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
• Apprentice of the Year
• School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
• Trainee of the Year
• Vocational Student of the Year
• VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year
• Organisation Awards
• Industry Collaboration
• Small Employer of the Year
• Large Employer of the Year
• Small Training Provider of the Year
• Large Training Provider of the Year
• VET Innovation for Schools (state-based award)
• Excellence in Diversity (new state-based award).

 

Previous award winner, electrician Mark Reynolds, said that applying for the award allowed him to reflect on his achievements as an apprentice. 

 

“Since then, thanks to the awards, I’ve embraced opportunities to speak at events, inspire others, and grow my network, and I’ve also been able to successfully advance my career, winning my dream job that same year,” he added. 

 

“To anyone considering applying for this years’ awards I say do it. Regardless of the outcome, the experience is as beneficial as it is rewarding.”

 

Nominations for the awards will close on 26 May, with judging to take place throughout June and July. Winners will be announced on 21 September at the 2023 South Australian Training Awards Celebration Event Gala Dinner, before the national 2023 Australian Training Awards Presentation in Hobart on 17 November.

 

For more information about applying, please see here.