TAFE celebrates high achievers

LAST week Federation University TAFE celebrated its outstanding achievers with an awards ceremony at the Mining Exchange.

The event saw 40 winners announced across 33 categories for excellence in their chosen area of study.

Federation TAFE apprentice of the year was Certificate III in Engineering student Jonah Moloney-Wise and trainee of the year went to Diploma of Nursing student Tammy McDonald.

Certificate III in Electrotechnology student Traiyth Leffler won the Rotary Club of Ballarat endeavour award.

The E JT Tippett Outstanding Achievement Award went to Deanne Smith who is a Certificate III in Conversation and Ecosystem Management graduate.

“Our cohort was fortunate to have incredible teachers that are passionate about sharing their knowledge, and they delivered content in a supportive, hands-on learning environment,” said Ms Smith.

“I owe my success to having teachers that did all they could to help their students succeed.

“A decision to study at TAFE has now opened up a pathway towards higher education that I wouldn’t have thought possible a few years ago, and I am excited for what the future will bring.”

The Federation TAFE growth award was given to both Katherine Jones and Ruby Bending-Norman, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who have shown commitment to their studies.

VET teacher or trainer of the year went to Dr Adam Bignold for his work ensuring the Certificate IV of Cybersecurity better meets the needs of neurodiverse or ESL students.

More than 260 students who completed an apprenticeship in 2023 were given the honorary title of craftsperson of the City of Ballarat by Federation University, the City of Ballarat and the Rotary Club of Ballarat.

“These awards celebrate the outstanding achievements, determination, and enterprise of our students, apprentices, trainees, and teachers, as well as the support of local employers and industry,” said Federation TAFE deputy-CEO Darren Gray.

“The award winners have shown excellence in pursuit of their studies and chosen careers and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make within their communities and industries.”