New training facility unveiled

From left at front: Chisholm CEO Maria Peters, Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley, Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert, a local apprentice and Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan at the opening of the new Berwick Trade Careers Centre last week. 137048 Picture: CONTRIBUTED

By LACHLAN MOORHEAD

THE State Government last week opened a new $26 million training facility at Chisholm Institute’s Berwick campus.
Training and Skills Minister Steve Herbert officially opened the Berwick Trade Career Centre on Wednesday 25 March, which will serve as a multi-trade simulated building site to support training in carpentry, plumbing, bricklaying and electrical work.
Mr Herbert was also joined by Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley and Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan to unveil the new facility, which comes as the Andrews’ Government also announced their $50 million TAFE Back to Work Fund last week
“This new facility will help Chisholm Institute deliver more training in skills shortage occupations across the south-east, supporting locals to develop the skills they need to get the jobs they want,” Mr Herbert said.
“The Centre’s innovative approach to construction industry training will help students and apprentices learn to navigate work on a building site, giving them an advantage.”
The Berwick Trade Careers Centre offers training from Certificate III to Diploma level, while Certificate IV and Diploma of Building Construction, as post-trade qualifications, will be offered from the second half of 2015.
Ms Graley said the Casey community was home to many young people “who are looking to gain skills.”
“Too many are struggling to find work or access training and this great local facility will provide them with the opportunity to do just that,” she said.