Tafe Northern Sydney Institute Headlines

The heat was on at the TAFE NSW – Northern Sydney Institute’s (NSI) Crows Nest College Fusion Cookery Competition when 10 commercial cookery students battle it out in the kitchen for one of five prizes on offer.

The group of budding chefs were presented with ‘a mystery box challenge’ which required chefs to create a menu using given ingredients. The main ingredients included chicken, prawns and a range of fresh Asian herbs including lemongrass, turmeric and galangal.

The competition judges included some of the most well known names in Australia’s Asian restaurant industry, including Robert Ho, Chinese Chef, Licensee of the Golden Century Restaurant and President of the Australian Chinese Restaurateurs Association.

A total feast for the senses, the competition was held at NSI’s Crows Nest College, Fusion Training Restaurant.

The chefs worked busily to create three courses, combining western and Asian Cookery techniques in an effort to impress judges.

Full time student and apprentice chef at Blue Eyed Dragon Restaurant Wahyuni Kusuma took out first prize, winning an Ice Bear, Japanese chef’s knife from Fraser and Hughes and a gift voucher from Krio Krush Basic Foods.

Wahyuni’s winning menu featured mince prawns and egg wrap with chilli dipping sauce, sanbei chicken breast with garlic and shallots, soy sauce and jasmine rice, as well as egg and palm sugar pudding served with coconut milk.

Competition judge and NSI Commercial Cookery Lecturer, Troy Fitzpatrick said the winning dishes brought together a range of very specific skills.

“What we were looking for was a balance of flavours, a good balance of nutrition, a clever use of ingredients and of course the great use of colour that’s associated with Asian Cookery,” he said.

“One of the things we tell the students is that people eat with their eyes first – and we have certainly seen some great examples of colourful fusion dishes at this competition.”

Thanks must be extended to our sponsors Kikkoman, Bidvest Australia, Messermeister and Blue Eye Dragon Restaurant.

Have you ever found yourself presented with a wine menu, only to again find yourself asking the question “which do I choose, white or red?”

The Sydney Wine Academy at TAFE NSW – Northern Sydney Institute (NSI) have set out to take the guess work out of choosing a wine to complement your meal with our new food and wine matching course.

Be the envy of your friends and guests by enrolling in a practical, three hour course in NSI’s fine dining Ambassador restaurant, accompanied by a delicious four course degustation menu.

The course will explore the art of food and wine matching, discuss ‘classic’ pairings and ideal matches, as well as address why some wines are more easily matched with certain foods.

Led by experienced French wine lecturer Jean Claude Ferrier, the course will give you hints, tips and the edge to make an informed choice when entertaining at home or dining out.

“The course is perfect for those hoping to develop their knowledge of wine”, said Clive Hartley, Course Director for The Sydney Wine Academy.

“Participants will be gain a deeper understanding of the many complexities involved with food and wine matching and become aware of the science that is involved in creating a good match.

“Best of all, it’s a hands on course so people can actually taste for themselves how certain wines influence and enhance certain foods.

“There’s no better way to learn than to actually experience the task at hand.”

Courses will be held Tuesdays throughout February and March, 2011 at:

TAFE NSW – Northern Sydney Institute
Sydney Wine Academy
Ryde College
250 Blaxland Road, Ryde

To find out more and enrol online see our Food and Wine Matching course page.

NSI's Women’s Strategy Coordinator Robyn Woolley has been selected as a finalist for this year’s International Women’s Day NSW Woman of the Year Award.

One of only 10 women in NSW selected as a finalist, the award recognises the state’s most inspirational women.

Minister for Women Jodi McKay said the finalists were chosen by an independent panel from 75 nominations made by the community and by Members of Parliament.

“The NSW Woman of the Year Award acknowledges the achievements of women and the leadership they provide as positive community role models across NSW.

“The 10 finalists selected represent some of the best examples of the contribution women make to the community, domestic violence services, education, and business.

“Each finalist has demonstrated a talent and a passion for improving the lives of those around them, especially women.”

In addition to her role as Women’s Strategy Coordinator at NSI, Robyn is the Convenor of the Lane Cove Action and Information Group and the National Co-convenor of Women in Adult and Vocational Education Inc (WAVE).

Robyn has spent 25 years working in the field of women’s studies, and has been instrumental in the development of educational programs for women, including Digi Girls, Work Wise Women and short courses for women in home based and small business.

Robyn said she was honoured to be nominated for the award.

“It’s lovely to be recognised and appreciated, I feel honoured.”

“It’s a great achievement, and there are so many women who have contributed to the many projects I’ve worked on.”

’I’ve been privileged to work with some wonderful people,” she said.

Robyn said she had always enjoyed working on developing women’s education, and in particular hoped to inspire younger women to use their education to their best advantage.

“I get a great deal of satisfaction seeing women excel in the courses we provide, this is why I do what I do,” she said.

“I hope I can encourage people and improve women’s economic standing.

“How lucky am I, to have a job where I can deliver that kind of expertise and see women use their skills to the full breadth of their advantage!”

The winner of the Woman of the Year Award will be announced at the Premier’s International Women’s Day Reception at Parliament House on the evening of March 8th 2011.

Ryde College student Jeremy Foot has received the Fine Wine Partners - Philip Shaw Wines - Student Sommelier of the Year Award for 2010.

Each year the award is presented to the most outstanding graduate of NSI’s Sydney Wine Academy Certificate III in Hospitality - Sommelier course.

According to Fine Wine Partners Chairman Rob Hirst, the accolade is a positive step forward in the development and recognition of wine education in Australia.

“New South Wales is producing world class wines and Australia must have the best educated trade possible to be able to firstly recognise this quality and secondly to sell these quality wines”.

“It is vital to support these students and this award sits well alongside our other educational initiatives in supporting the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Wine and Spirit Education Trust of the UK (WSET®) in Australia.”

As the winning Sommelier, Jeremy received the perpetual trophy as well as an all expenses paid trip to visit Philip Shaw’s winery to taste their wines and meet the wine maker.

Jeremy said he was delighted to receive the accolade.

"I was shocked" said Jeremy.

“Having only just made the transition to wine and hospitality when beginning the course I always felt out of my depth when listening to my fellow students.

“But the skills and knowledge gained throughout the year and the valuable insights of the teachers and my fellow students have brought me a long way in such a short time.”

Jeremy completed the Certificate III in Hospitality - Sommeliers course last year, achieving the highest mark in the class. At the same time, Jeremy also successfully completed Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET®) Level 3 Certificate in Wines and Spirits course.

While Jeremy originally chose to study psychology, it wasn’t until he travelled overseas that he decided to pursue his love of wine.

Jeremy currently works at Rockpool restaurant in Sydney and is looking forward to what is sure to be exciting career in the wine industry.

“The opportunities that have arisen from my association with NSI and Fine Wine Partners have made me excited about the future,” said Jeremy.

“I would highly recommend the courses offered by the Sydney Wine Academy for anyone looking to cement a solid foundation in working with wine in a hospitality setting.”

NSI’s Sydney Wine Academy Director, Clive Hartley said the award provided great encouragement for others like Jeremy looking to enter the industry.

“It’s really important to acknowledge the achievements of young students and encourage them to do their best,” said Clive.

“Through this award we can encourage students and provide them with an opportunity to really excel.”

For more information about sommelier courses offered at NSI, visit the Sydney Wine Academy website.

NSI's International student Hayley Ward has received the 2011 inaugural NSW Premier’s International Student of the Year Award.

Hayley was one of 12 students across the state nominated to receive the NSW International Student of the Year Vocational Education and Training (VET) Award.

The Hon Penny Sharpe, Member for the Legislative Council presented Hayley with the award at the International Students Festival held on Sunday at Tumbalong Park, Sydney Darling Harbour.

The winners of the NSW International Student of Year Awards were announced across four categories (English language, vocational courses, higher education and school programs) at the festival.

In addition to the award presentation, the festival included live entertainment, special promotions and delicious food stalls.

Hayley said she was honoured to receive the award.

“It was a really lovely surprise, it was great to be recognised,” she said.

“On both a professional level and a personal level, it’s a great achievement for me. “

“To have achieved great results, have found something I really enjoy and to be working is a massive achievement that I’m very proud of. “

“I really never thought I would achieve all of that in only two years.”

Since arriving in Australia from Britain, Hayley studied the Diploma of Community Services Work and the Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) at NSI’s Northern Beaches College.

Hayley graduated with distinction and has received accolades for her strong ability to interact and communicate with staff and fellow students.

While studying in Australia, Hayley has developed a passion for Aboriginal culture and welfare.

“I like to think that people will be treated fairly, and I like working with people. I especially like working with the Indigenous community in Australia,” she said.

“After completing my placement with the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council, I felt like I had become part of their family. It was a very rewarding experience.”

There are more than 230,000 international students currently enrolled in NSW, contributing more than $6.8 billion to the state annually.

The festival and the awards were part of a range of programs introduced by the NSW Government to support the international education industry and enhance the experience of international students in NSW.

For further information on courses available to International students visit our website

NSI's Hornsby College will celebrate World Water Day, 22 March 2011 with the launch of their innovative educational eco-literacy campaign to minimise the impact of bottled water on the environment.

As part of the campaign, NSI’s Hornsby College has installed strategically placed water bottle refill stations across the college, allowing students unlimited access to filtered water.

The college is screening educational documentaries informing students and staff of the impact of bottled water on the environment, and are distributing eye catching posters designed by Hornsby College graphic design students.

The college student association is providing students with BPA free refillable bottles as an alternative to other commercial bottles.

Teachers and students have also been given electronic access to research information on the topic that can be readily integrated into teaching and learning programmes.

A first for TAFE NSW, the campaign is expected to limit the impact of bottled water on the local environment.

“NSI’s Hornsby College is working closely with teachers, students, local environment groups, student associations and college libraries to provide sustainable and lasting change,” said Hornsby College Director Audette Benson.

“We considered the simple step of banning the sale of bottled water on campus from 2011 onward but felt that a ban alone wouldn’t necessarily lead to lasting change in our community and this approach isn’t congruent with TAFE’s role as an educational institution.”

“We also had concerns that a ban might have unintended consequences such as increased soft-drink consumption by students”

“We’re very confident that this innovative local approach to reduce the sale of bottled water will bring dividends and provide an effective model that we can share with other institutes state-wide”.

Along with the launch of the educational campaign on World Water Day, the college will be showcasing their sustainability projects, providing guided tours of the college and hosting a sausage sizzle.

Chinese delegate Xudong Li, from the China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE) will also be attending the college celebrations on World Water day as part of a six week study tour to review the best practice models for Skills in Sustainability in Vocational Education and Training.

Xudong Li, students and guests will visit the college’s Eco Skills Training Centre, tour the automotive section, visit the college’s LED solar display, visit Hornsby Council’s water catchment display and view a new energy saving Smart Car design.

NSI’s Environment Officer Cathy Horan said it was an honour to have members of the (CEAIE) at the college to witness the launch of the campaign.

“It’s wonderful that we are recognised on the world stage as a leader in sustainable practices,” said Cathy.

“We have become a key player when it comes to developing sustainable solutions, so to have our projects regarded as amongst the very best is a great achievement for NSI.”

NSI is offering 19 scholarships for apprentices to study the Certificate IV in Business Sustainability Assessment.

Funded by the Board of Vocational Education and Training (BVET), the Certificate IV in Business Sustainability Assessment scholarships are available to apprentices who have completed their trade qualification and are in the final year of their apprenticeship.

Apprentices who complete the course will learn how to undertake assessments of small to medium business enterprises and make recommendations on how to improve business sustainability.

Students will gain the practical skills to audit, report and advise in areas of energy efficiency such as water use, waste management, thermal building performance, sustainable procurement and the impact of commercial operations on the environment.

NSI will be offering the Certificate IV in Business Sustainability Assessment across a range of trade areas starting on the 28 April 2011.

For further information call 02 9472 1364 or email nsi.green@tafensw.edu.au

Three surf life savers Mia Leszinsky, Maxine Peacock – Smith and Christine Armour were selected to receive the 2011 NSI Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches Scholarship, which will see them complete a course of their choice at NSI.

The Surf Life Saving program was launched in 2008 and is a product of a partnership between NSI and the Surf Life Saving, Northern Beaches.

Mia has chosen to study the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, Maxine will study the Certificate IV in Community Services, while Christine will study the Certificate III in Information Technology (Support) at NSI’s Northern Beaches College.

The program is designed to support the career and education aspirations of those who have excelled in surf-related sports and those who have made a significant contribution to the ongoing development and operation of their club.

North Steyne surf life saver Maxine Peacock – Smith said she was extremely grateful to receive the scholarship.

“I’ve had the chance to do things with surf life saving that I would never have expected to do.

“I have been working part time and doing bits and pieces here and there, but I really wanted to start studying.

“It seemed like such a great opportunity, I couldn’t believe how lucky I was,” she said.

“I just wish I had applied earlier!”

In addition to her contribution to the Surf Life Saving Club, Maxine volunteers three days a week at Disabled Alternative Road Travel Service (DARTS) and is a youth leader for the Salvation Army.

Maxine says studying at NSI’s Northern Beaches College will assist her to establish a career in counselling.

“This scholarship will give me the opportunity to do something I really want to do.

“I’d like to work with young people and youth,” she said.

“I think this is where the future is, there are a lot of kids out there who are lost, and there are opportunities for them to turn their lives around.”

Over 100 hospitality students attended a graduation ceremony at NSI’s Northern Beaches College Pittwater Training Restaurant in late March.

The four classes of commercial cookery and hospitality management students were presented with their qualification at the ceremony.

Special guest Olivia Kerin, Head Chef at Kids Gourmet Foods catering company and representatives from Dee Why Rotary were in attendance at the event to present the students with NSI’s Northern Beaches College ‘Commercial Cookery Apprentice of the Year’ award and the ‘Most Improved Student’ award.

Commercial Cookery Apprentice Fred Francis received the Commercial Cookery Apprentice of the Year award, while Jason Yi-Cheing Kuo received the Most Improved Student award.

Olivia, a former graduate of NSI’s Northern Beaches College and recipient of the Apprentice of the Year Award herself, said it was an honour to be invited back to the college.

“It’s very exciting to be back presenting the Apprentice of the Year award,” said Olivia.

“It’s a great achievement for the students to have finally finished their course,” she said.

“I’m sure the students have great careers ahead of them.”

An experienced chef, Olivia encouraged the students to learn from each of their cooking experiences.

“There are so many things to be gained working as a chef,” she said.

“There are many areas within the industry you can pursue.

“You never stop learning as a chef, so never pass an opportunity to learn something new.

“If you’re willing to work hard and put in the effort, you will experience the rewards.”

Find out more information on hospitality courses available at NSI.

NSI stole the stage at the Institution of Gas Engineers and LPG Australia NSW Awards for Excellence last week, winning the Training Institution of the Year Award, while plumbing student Stephan Kertanegara received the Best Trainee in the Traditional Gas Industry award category.

The gas industry’s night of nights, the Gas Engineers and LPG Australia Awards for Excellence recognise NSW’s best gas students and training providers.

Head Teacher of plumbing at NSI’s Meadowbank College David Harrison said he was honoured to receive the award on behalf of NSI.

“It’s a great that the Institute has received this award,” he said.

“To be considered one of the best industry training providers in NSW is an achievement to be proud of.

“NSI’s Meadowbank College has for many years provided training in the traditional Gas Industry areas and because of dedicated and highly skilled staff, we have produced many outstanding students in all aspects of the plumbing and gas fitting trade.”

Certificate IV in Plumbing and Services (Operations) student Stephan Kertanegara said he was extremely grateful to receive the best trainee award.

“There were a lot of very experienced people in attendance at the awards evening, and it felt really good to be amongst them.

“Receiving the award was a great experience.”

Well on his way to a successful career in the plumbing industry, Stephan has won a string of awards including the 2010 Master Apprentice Gold Medal Award and the 2010 Northern District Times Rotary Best Apprentice of the Year Award.

David Harrison congratulated Stephan on his award, describing him as an exceptionally dedicated student.

“He’s an outstanding student who has tried his very best since he first started at NSI,” he said.

“Not only has he achieved exceptional academic results but he’s shown a lot of dedication and a really positive attitude throughout his course.”

For more information on plumbing courses available at NSI, visit the course search page

NSI's Hornsby College Adult Foundation Education teacher Fiona Dimas-Herd is the lucky winner of NSI’s World Water Day SMART car competition.

As part of Hornsby College’s World Water Day festivities and launch of NSI’s educational eco-literacy campaign, the Mercedes Benz SMART car was on display at the college, offering onlookers the opportunity to go in the draw to win the use of a SMART car for a weekend.

Ecstatic to hear she had won the prize, Fiona received the keys to the SMART car last weekend.

“It’s a very funky little car, different to what it seems like from a distance,” said Fiona.

“It’s the type of car you can see people becoming a bit fanatical about.

“It’s very low on fuel consumption, so perfect for driving around the city. I think the SMART car will have a great future in Australia.”

Designed to be an environmentally friendly form of transportation, the SMART car boasts fuel economy, a small compact design and is equipped with a range of energy saving functions.

The SMART car was one of many eco friendly technology solutions on display at Hornsby College on World Water Day.

Visitors on the day were also able to view Hornsby College’s Eco Skills Training Centre, the automotive section, LED solar display and water catchment display.

Visit our website to search for information on NSI's Green Skills and Sustainability courses

NSI Ryde College recently hosted the Callebaut Chocolate Showpiece Competition.

Students from NSI’s Ryde College, Le Cordon Bleu and Hunter Institute competed for the title of best chocolate showpiece.

The group of 11 students created chocolate sculptures in an attempt to win a $500 voucher for the Savour Chocolate and Patisserie School in Melbourne.

Each competitor was required to create a chocolate sculpture that reflected an ocean theme, as well as incorporate excellent use of technical skills.

According to competition judge Gary Willis from Callebaut Chocolate, many of the chocolate sculptures took several days to complete.

“Some of the pieces are quite detailed – they were all of a very high standard. Some of the sculptures took over 15 hours to complete,” he said.

“When it comes to showpieces, what we want to be able to see is all the things they have learnt about chocolate. The ability to create a glossy finish, interesting detail with the chocolate and ensuring there is balance and movement through the sculpture is all very important.”

Fellow judge Sebastian Burot, Managing Director of Deshel Foods said that originality also played a key factor in creating a winning sculpture.

“It’s easy to make a tall structure and then add a fish to create an ocean theme - the same as it’s easy to create the same structure and add a flower meet the requirements of a floral theme,” he said.

“But what we are looking for is a piece that really captures the theme with its design.”

The winning sculpture, created by Le Cordon Bleu student Jason Tan, was chosen for its use of balance and use of complex skills.

Tall and elegant, the sculpture depicted aquatic flowers, bright coral and a purple seashell.

Jason said he was ecstatic to hear he had won first prize.

“I was elated! I put in a lot of effort,” he said.

“But I really enjoyed working towards the competition. I haven’t had a lot of experience with chocolate, but I’ve always enjoyed working with pastry and chocolate.”

“I’ve learnt a lot from this experience, especially receiving feedback from the judges and working with the teachers in the lead up to the competition.

“There were a few technical issues with the balance at first, but with help from my teachers I had the confidence to create a great sculpture.”

In addition to the $500 voucher for the Savour Chocolate and Patisserie School in Melbourne, Jason also received Le Cordon Bleu's latest publication the Chocolate Bible. All participants received a voucher for two to attend Le Cordon Bleu High Tea.

Hornsby Children’s centre has been recognised as the 4000th children’s centre in NSW to access a bicultural worker to help support the children and families.

This program is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace relations (DEEWR) and provides a worker half a day per week at no cost to the children’s centre.

Guests from peak industry bodies including the Ethnic Child Care Programme, KU Inclusion Support, Bicultural resource programme along with bicultural support workers visited Hornsby Children’s Centre.

Rebekah, the Korean support worker wore traditional clothing and the children enjoyed cupcakes and dancing to Korean tunes.

Cristina Bezzo, Director of Hornsby Children’s centre said the program was very worthwhile and helped families transition into long day care.

NSI operates two Children’s centres, one at Hornsby and also Meadowbank Colleges for children aged 0-5 years and is open 48 weeks per year for students, staff and community families. Please click here for further information and application forms.

NSI’s Ryde College landscape and construction apprentices have taken out second place in the 2011 NSW Landscaping Challenge at the Royal Easter Show.

Following the theme ‘A Courtyard Garden’, the Landscaping Challenge required each of the four TAFE NSW teams to create a display garden.

NSI’s Japanese Garden had judges suitably impressed, winning them second prize at the showground.

The inaugural TAFE NSW Landscaping Challenge was the centrepiece of the Great Aussie Backyard area; a mix of great gardening ideas, exhibitors and leading gardening experts.

Hosted by the Royal Agricultural Society, the competition provided the students with valuable experience, and showed onlookers how to create their own courtyard gardens.

Parliamentary Secretary Gabrielle Upton recently attended the 2011 NSI Excellence Awards at Ryde College to announce NSI’s Student of the Year.

Fourteen Excellence Awards and ten TAFE NSW State Medals were presented at this year’s event to acknowledge the achievements of the year’s most outstanding students.

Ms Upton presented the Student of the Year award to Susan Lewis, who also received the 2011 Community Services and Health Student of the Year award.

A former palliative care worker, Susan completed the Diploma of Community Services Work at NSI’s Northern Beaches College in order to gain the skills she needed for a career in the community services industry.

Susan said she was surprised and honoured to receive the award. “I feel very proud to have received this award,” she said. “It has encouraged me to work just as hard at my university studies so I can further my future career."

In addition to studying at university, Susan volunteers her time as a telephone support worker for a child abuse prevention service.

NSI's Institute Director, Kevin Harris said he was proud of all the student’s achievements.

“It’s fantastic to see the students achieve such great results,” he said. “The excellence awards showcase the very best of our students and acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the students throughout the year.

“I hope this award encourages each of them to move forward with their chosen career paths and inspires them to continue pursuing their personal goals.”

Visit the 2011 Excellence Awards website for more information about NSI's Excellence Awards' winners and State Medal winners.

NSI's eLearning Officer Kelly Pickering is the winner of the 2011 Teaching with Sakai Innovation Award (TWSIA).

The annual international competition encourages the sharing of innovative technology, enhanced teaching processes, and recognises exceptional practices and teaching techniques.

Each year the award attracts entries from Europe, Africa, Australia and North America representing a wide range of disciplines and approaches.

Kelly said she felt honoured to receive the international award. “I was fortunate enough to be a part of the team involved in NSI’s implementation of Sakai,” she said.

“It has been a pleasure developing the Statement of Attainment in eLearning along with my team members at Information and eServices.

“This course aims to support NSI teachers by building capability in eLearning. It is certainly a wonderful professional development opportunity for NSI staff.”

Kelly has shown great enthusiasm for Sakai since its introduction to NSI in 2007.

In 2008, Kelly together with the hair and beauty teaching section at NSI received the Peter Wright Teaching and Learning Products and Services TAFE NSW Quality Award.

Kelly was invited to attend the 12th Sakai Conference in Los Angeles, California, where she was presented with her award.

The award is sponsored by IBM Global Education and supported by rSmart and Wiley Higher Education.

A group of 11 NSI Ryde College hospitality management and events students recently joined some of Sydney’s best waiters for the Great Waiters Race in Sydney during May, 2011.

Based on the traditional race held in Paris, France the Great Waiters Race is designed to test waiters speed and dexterity.

Contestants began the race at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Sydney’s Circular Quay, as they competed for a ticket to the grand prix race in France in August 2012.

NSI students were the first TAFE NSW students to cross the finish line.

NSI’s Ryde College Director Elizabeth Smith said the race provided an excellent opportunity for the students to put their skills to the test.

“It’s certainly not an easy task, but the students were very well prepared,” said Elizabeth.

“The process of training has given the students a chance to improve their skills and build their confidence.”

“It’s also been a lot of fun for the student’s and teacher, they really enjoyed preparing for the race.”

Proceeds from the race were donated to the McGrath Foundation.

The McGrath Foundation promote ‘breast awareness’ among young women and enables the placement of specialist McGrath Breast Care nurses across the country to support women diagnosed with breast cancer.

NSI recently celebrated the launch of the 2011 Appetite for Success program at Parliament House in Sydney.

Designed to develop and assist tomorrow’s leading chefs and food and beverage staff, participants of the program receive special training from high-profile mentors.

This is the second year the program has been offered in Sydney through TAFE NSW with both Northern Sydney and Sydney Institute running the program in 2011.

Matt Kemp, Head Chef of Restaurant Balzac and mentor said the program provided students with a unique learning opportunity.

“I think on many levels the Appetite for Success Program is a fantastic program and I congratulate TAFE NSW for their high level of professionalism and commitment to the program,” he said.

“I feel that this program guides these young professionals into the right environment that will advance their careers thus benefiting each and every establishment they work at.

“To become that successful business person as well as gather the necessary skills and knowledge on their way to the top they need guidance. I feel very privileged to be one of the mentors to give guidance and give my full support to the Appetite for Success program.”

Matt will be mentoring James Fairbank, NSI graduate and chef at Otto Ristorante, Woolloomooloo.

James said he believed the program would provide him with new experiences he would benefit from throughout his career.

“The Appetite for Success program will assist me by providing me with the skills and strong knowledge base required to take a senior role in a kitchen,” he said.

“The biggest benefit of the program is the mentoring provided by industry leaders.”

“Matt Kemp's generosity in passing on his knowledge on running a successful business, has been a valuable asset, and the advice on all facets of pastry and career progression have provided clarity to my own situation.

“Knowing Matt is there if I need advice is fantastic.”

Visit Appetite for Success for information on the 2011 program.

Collaroy resident and NSI North Sydney College student Patrick Nicols has received the Prime Minister's Award for Skills Excellence in School for Construction and Property Services.

The Minister for School Education, Early Childhood and Youth Peter Garrett earlier this week congratulated 410 winners of the Australian Vocational Student Prize and 17 winners of the Prime Minister’s Award.

The awards recognise Year 12 students who have demonstrated exceptional skill, commitment and achievement while participating in vocational education and training as part of their senior secondary certificate.

“The Prime Minister’s Award for Skills Excellence in School provides further recognition for the most outstanding Vocational Prize recipients,” Mr Garrett said.

“Winners of the Prime Minister’s Award are selected from the categories of the highest achieving student in each state and territory, the highest achieving Indigenous student, and the highest achieving student in each industry group.

“All of these students have gained a better understanding of the workplace, and have developed industry-specific skills which will help them follow their chosen career.”

Patrick is completing his Certificate III in Plumbing at NSI’s North Sydney College and is currently in the third year of his apprenticeship.

Already on his way towards a promising career, Patrick has received a string of accolades including the Central and Northern Sydney Region School-based Apprentice of the Year and was also a finalist in his category for the 2011 NSW Training Award.

Patrick said he attributes his success to his love of plumbing and the guidance he received from those he has worked and studied alongside with.

“I’ve been lucky to work with a lot of good people who have taught me a lot as well,” he said.

“The teachers at North Sydney College are always very friendly and are there to help whenever I need it.

Patrick says he is looking forward to completing his apprenticeship and one day hopes to own his own plumbing business.

Recently professionals from across the hospitality industry attended industry forums at NSI's Ryde College and the Amora Hotel in Sydney to address the issue of apprenticeship completions.

Part of the 2011 TAFE NSW Apprenticeship Completions Project, the ‘Hospitality Industry Leader’s Forums’ focused on the need to lift Australia wide apprenticeship completions and discussed strategies on how to improve completion rates for trainees and apprentices.

Those in attendance at the industry forums included employers from across the hospitality sector, group training organisations, Australian apprenticeships centres and NSI staff.

Many of the industries well known chefs attended and took part in the discussion including, Neil Perry, Luke Mangan, Peter Doyle, Mark Jensen and Colin Fassnidge.

The TAFE NSW Apprenticeship Completions Project was developed in response to research findings that indicated nearly half of the 448,000 Australians currently undertaking apprenticeships and traineeships within Australia will not complete their qualification.

The project aims to identify, develop and promote strategies that assist TAFE NSW Institutes to work collaboratively with employers and to improve apprenticeships completions.

The forums provided an opportunity for industry representatives to share their knowledge and experiences when working with apprentices.

Andrea Poletti, NSI's Manager Business Line - Tourism and Hospitality, Environment and Horticulture said the forums were a great success.

“The voice of industry is imperative when it comes to discussing the future of our apprenticeships and traineeships,” she said.

“The feedback and opinions of those who work in the industry are very valuable to us as an education institution, as we try and understand why completion rates are what they are today.”

“There are many factors that can influence a student’s decision to continue a particular career path, so its’ important that we investigate and consider all the challenges apprentices experience while completing their studies.”

In addition to the forums, NSI will survey apprentices and conduct further research on apprenticeship completions.

The findings of the forum, survey and research will be published on the TAFE Strategy website and will become consolidated as part of a TAFE NSW report.

Asian Cuisine at its finest

Choose your wine with confidence

Finalist NSW Woman of the Year Award

NSI's Student Sommelier of the Year Award announced

NSW Premier’s International Student of the Year Award

World Water Day awareness campaign launch

Green skills training scholarships for apprentices

2011 NSI Surf Life Saving Scholarship recipients announced

Local chef congratulates hospitality graduates

NSI wins top plumbing prize

NSI teacher wins SMART car competition

Chocolate competition a sweet success

Hornsby Children's Centre recognised for cultural diversity program

NSI Landscaping students take centre stage at Royal Easter Show

NSI announces 2011 Student of the Year

International eLearning award for NSI

NSI students join Great Waiters Race

Hospitality industry’s finest celebrate 2011 Appetite for Success launch

Plumbing apprentice receives Prime Minister's Award

Industry forum attracts Sydney's best chefs