At-risk learners turn to Vocational Education

A new study has found at-risk youth are being enrolled by Vocational Education providers to undertake their skills training.

Whilst VET providers have taken over a larger share of the training market from TAFEs, the subsequent increase of high-needs students enrolling with institutions which are ill-equipped to deal with their needs.

The research, released by NCVER, showed that there are remedial literacy and numeracy programs available at the majority of providers, yet the approach across the sector is inconsistent. The low levels of literacy and numeracy skills places increasing demand on VET institutions and their teachers.

ABC described VET providers as “ill-equipped to tackle complex personal and social barriers to learning. Support provided was often limited to study spaces, computers with internet access and some academic skills support.”

Broadly, collaboration across the sectors is being suggested. By working in partnership governments, other educational providers and youth referral agencies can re-engage youth with a disrupted educational history.

Individually, it’s recommended that VET institutions utilise smaller groups as well as explore technologies to support learners with difficulties.

Rapid development in technology has created a multitude of options for re-engaging students with new material, platforms to communicate ideas and participate in interactive educational experiences.

Akolade’s 2^nd Annual Digital Engagement in VET explores the newest and most successful innovations in technology to acquire, engage and retain students.

Being held in Melbourne from November 22-24, the forum features esteemed speakers with track records of success in the industry.

Brad Seaman, the Chief Executive Officer of Ikon Institute, has lead IKON through significant change- taking the institution from 32 students to 550.

Marc Ratcliffe, the Chief Executive Officer of MRWED Training and Assessment,  has received many prestigious awards including being named as one of the top 10 young trainers in the world by US Training Magazine. Most recently, Marc was named as a finalist in the Category of “HR Champion” (CEO) at the Australian HR Awards (2014) and was presented with the “Outstanding Leadership Award - Learning and Development” (2015) by the HRD World Congress in Mumbai.

Don’t miss this must-attend for VETs, TAFEs and RTOs- secure your seat now.

 Claire Dowler is a Conference Producer with Akolade. She recently graduated with a double degree: a Bachelor of Journalism and a Bachelor of Media and Communications Studies majoring in International Communication. Claire minored in sarcasm and puns.

A ballroom-dancer who collects salt and pepper shakers and volunteers for animal rescue, you might say Claire has eclectic interests.