One of the best apprenticeship programs in the country

Overview

• TAFE Queensland and Sci-Fleet Motors Pty Ltd have been working together within the Toyota Training Program for close to 15 years.
• The tailored apprenticeship program (Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR30616)) is used by Sci-Fleet Motors, and TAFE Queensland staff made this easy – by being accessible, empathetic, responsive, proactive and accommodating to the dealership’s changing needs.
• The result is “great technicians” – more than 100 apprentices have completed, some of which have learning difficulties and other disabilities.

Opportunity

In 2006 it was identified that a brand-new program needed to be established to alleviate training double-handling, and to create a custom ‘manufacture’ training program. Collaboration between TAFE Queensland and Toyota Motor Corporation Australia (with the enthusiastic support and implementation by Sci-Fleet Motors) was required to establish the footings for a great program.

The key challenge was that the program was brand-new, and through commitment, feedback, and adaptation, a highly effective apprentice training program resulted. The new program established a specific manufacturer-based program, is delivered in the ‘Toyota way’, is aligned with Toyota’s philosophy and practices, and also meets the required apprentice training program outcomes.

Challenges are also ongoing as the motor industry is constantly changing with new technology - this means the program must continue to be flexible, evolve and deliver relevant training appropriately and comprehensively.

Solution

Queensland was the first state to implement the now national training program and TAFE Queensland was there, helping to ‘mould’ it from the beginning. Apprentices complete their training at the Toyota National Training Institute, and their core competencies at TAFE Queensland Acacia Ridge campus workshops, and on the job.

TAFE Queensland has been and continues to be responsive and adaptive with scheduling changes as per Sci-Fleet Motors’ needs.

“TAFE Queensland delivers a relevant and high skill level program for Sci-Fleet Motors’ apprentices,” said Joanne Marshall, Apprenticeship Coordinator at Sci-Fleet Motors.

Results

The result at the end of the apprenticeships is successful technicians, and the delivery of long-term careers for many young people in Queensland. More than 100 apprentices from Sci-Fleet Motors have completed the program, including students with learning difficulties and other disabilities.

“People with learning difficulties can often feel discouraged from undertaking more training, however the support available to these students at TAFE Queensland is amazing and has meant that many have been able to secure a career in a vocation that they love. These journeys are very rewarding to watch,” said Joanne Marshall, Apprenticeship Coordinator at Sci-Fleet Motors.

Future plans

The industry is constantly changing owing to technology, and this means training needs to adapt and evolve, and cover new experiences and methodologies.

“Who knows what our program will look like in the future, but I am confident it will still involve a partnership with TAFE Queensland and Sci-Fleet Motors,” said Ms Marshall.

“Training Apprentices is not always easy, but the relationship with your RTO (Registered Training Organisation) should be.”

How we can help your business

TAFE Queensland can help upskill your workforce and take advantage of funding opportunities.

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