Skills Partnerships

The Gordon developed the Skills Partnerships program to help meet workforce training needs, recognise the existing skills of those working on the land, and provide pathways for farmers looking for alternatives to their current situation.

The program sees The Gordon partner with a number of training organisations (RTO’s) in regional areas to deliver training to members of the rural community.  The program aligns with the COAG agreement to increase the number of Australians with qualifications by 2020 and is funded under the Victorian Training Guarantee.

Many within the farming community have no formal qualifications despite working within the sector for many years.  The Gordon, in partnership, works with farmers to formally recognise their existing skills and knowledge through a robust assessment process. Further training is provided to rectify any identified skills gaps.

As farming conditions remain difficult due to environmental and economic conditions, many are looking to diversify their businesses and some are considering a move away from the land.  Skills gained will help foster confidence and assist famers to identify new business, career and education pathways.   

What does the partnership deliver?

Our Skills Partnerships enable local delivery of nationally accredited qualifications.  Our training partners who are part of the communities in which they work, were chosen because of their expertise in delivering technical training.

The Gordon works closely with its partners, auditing course material and teaching approaches to ensure our reputation for quality education is maintained. The Gordon manages the academic process and upon completion, is able to award a nationally recognised qualification or unit of competency.

Farmers receive best practice training and formal recognition of existing skills with a focus on; business, occupational health & safety, use of chemicals, transport and logistics, agronomy and pasture management. All of which helps;

As of December 2011 we’ve delivered over 3,700 qualifications via our Skills Partnerships program and received an overwhelmingly positive response from the communities involved.

The Gordon is currently investigating other regional areas that are currently under-serviced where the program could be replicated to meet a similar community need.