Annual Report 2006 - TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Annual Report 2006Skilling for a Global FutureISO 90011099a1a

Director’s ForewordThis online report, available for download in PDF format,gives you a comprehensive account of the Institute’sperformance, activities and achievements during 2006. Itoutlines the Institute’s efforts with regard to our Key FocusAreas (KFAs): our customers, our people, our business andour intellectual property, and it provides a summary of ourorganisational performance data.In January 2006 the Institute set about strengtheningits position to ensure its future success through theimplementation of a new organisational structure. The newstructure re-orients the strategic and commercial focus ofthe Institute around seven new business lines, which alignwith key areas of industry:• Access and General Education• Business and Commerce• Community Services and Health• Industry and Environment• Information Communication Technology, Media and Arts• Schools Partnership and TVET• Tourism and Hospitality, and Events ManagementDuring the year the new business line teams have developedcomprehensive business and marketing plans with focusedstrategies that correlate our products to our target markets.These teams have worked hard to strengthen productdevelopment and delivery, build sales, grow networks,increase efficiency and improve service and value to ourcustomers.The success of this initiative can be seen in the resultsachieved by the Institute during the year. Once again, 2006has been a year of solid performance by the Institute acrosskey performance areas, details of which can be viewed inthe Organisational Performance section of this report. TheInstitute continues to be a credible provider of commercialtraining to other educational providers, the community,business and industry, both onshore and offshore.The success of the Institute is further highlighted by theoutstanding performance of so many of our students,individual staff members and staff teams.This report underlines the Institute’s commitment toimplementing the key initiatives that will ensure thevocational education and training needs of the NorthernSydney community, schools, business and industry arecontinually addressed in the future.I commend the TAFE NSW – Northern Sydney InstituteAnnual Report 2006 to you.Kevin J HarrisDirectorTAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute Our CustomersAnnual Report 2006

Our Customers – Exceeding ExpectationsNSI is committed to meeting and exceeding the expectationsof our customers.Improving Customer SatisfactionNSI is committed to meeting the needs of its customers.This commitment is highlighted by the formation in 2006of the NSI Customer Satisfaction Peak Work Group whichaims to identify appropriate tools and technologies usedto collect customer feedback and to promote strategiesfor identifying areas for improvement to increase ourcustomers’ satisfaction.Following the TAFE NSW Statewide Satisfaction Survey 2005,NSI has adopted an approach of measuring satisfaction intargeted areas. Business Lines are collecting and acting ondata and key business processes are being reviewed to seehow satisfied our customers are with our products andservices. In 2006, our new approach to collecting customerfeedback has been the use of online surveys, which aremore efficient and effective than paper-based methods.In 2006, customer feedback across NSI services identified theassessment process as an area that needed improvement.Initiatives were immediately undertaken by various NSIgroups to put in place improvements for this process byreviewing NSI’s assessment procedures, implementing anew approach to developing Learning and AssessmentStrategies and conducting projects to develop assessmentstrategies for new training packages.The Community Services and Health Business Lineconducted an online survey of NSI students in semester one2006 and semester two 2006 to review their satisfactionwith teaching and learning experiences. The areas wherestudents expressed their highest levels of satisfaction were:• the teachers are knowledgeable about the material theyteach’• ‘the course gives me the knowledge and skills for mycareer’.NSI continues to expand its use of a range of tools that usethe latest technologies to gain feedback from our customers,so products and services are continually improved to meetcustomers’ needs and expectations.NSI is committed to meeting and exceeding the expectationsof our customers.Student Achievements and AwardsIn 2006 NSI has again excelled in delivering education andtraining that inspires students to succeed.NSW Vocational Student of the Year 2006 and RunnerUp National Vocational Student of the Year 2006(Australian Vocational Student Prize)Northern Sydney Institutegraduate of the AdvancedDiploma of HospitalityManagement Craig Deardenwas named 2006 NSWVocational Student ofthe Year and runner-upVocational Student of theYear at the national 2006Australian Training Awards,in recognition of his outstanding achievement in thevocational and education training sector. Craig also receivedtwo NSI Excellence Awards (2003 and 2006), and he is aNational Worldskills Gold Medallist (2005).National WorldSkills Fellow2006 NSW Training Awardsfinalists were CommercialCookery graduate Sarah-Jane Hallett, a finalist in theStudent of the Year category;and Carpentry and Joinerystudent David Matthews,a finalist in the Apprenticeof the Year category of theAwards. David also received the Alvin Neate Award fromthe Master Builders Association, Northern NSW RegionalOffice.Australian Vocational Student Prize 2006TVET student Hardeep Singh was awarded a 2006 AustralianVocational Student Prize in recognition of her outstandingachievements as a secondary- school student undertaking aVET in Schools program in the Certificate II in InformationTechnology.TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Our Customers – Exceeding ExpectationsNational WorldSkills Competition 2006Northern Sydney Institute has consistently achievedexcellent results in local, national and international WorldSkills competitions. In 2006 NSI students won 12 medals,including six gold medals at the National WorldSkillsCompetition held in Melbourne. Gold medals were awardedto Matthew Ryan (web design), Michael Kirkwood-Smith(software applications), Suwanna Rattananikom (cookery)and Sarah Rowsell (restaurant services). These students havebeen chosen to represent Team Australia at the prestigiousWorldskills International competition in Japan in 2007.Gold Medals were also won by Vocational Education andTraining in Schools (VETis) students Eliza Hirst (Food andBeverage) and Hardeep Singh (Information Technology).Hardeep Singh continued to build on her previous year’ssuccess in the event.TAFE NSW Award Winners 2006Excellence Awards Winners 2006TAFE NSW Gili Award 2006By completing the Advanced Diploma of HospitalityManagement and studies in the Diploma of EventsManagement, Cayley Hagarty received a TAFE NSW GiliAward for Academic Excellence in recognition of hercontribution to her community through training andeducation.Additional achievements by NSI students during 2006include:HSC ResultsNSI students continued to perform well in the 2006 NSWHSC. NSI, Hornsby College, TVET student Candice Khortopped the state in HSC Accounting with a perfect scoreof 100, and another seven fellow students achieved a BandSix for the course. Four students in Accounting, one inInformation Technology and one in Retail Operations, madethe Top Achievers in Course List and thirteen students wererecognised in the Distinguished Achievers’ List.The Northern Sydney Institute Excellence Awards 2006,sponsored by the Electroboard Solutions Pty Ltd and FujiXerox, celebrated the year’s most outstanding studentachievements across 13 categories. Diploma in Welfaregraduate Jenny Nicholson was named NSI Student ofthe Year, recognising an outstanding performance in herstudies, workplace and broader community. Other winnersincluded Joanna Trahair (NSI TAFE Vocational Education andTraining (TVET) Student of the Year), Nicholas Kenyon (NSIApprentice Student of the Year) and Belinda Smith (TraineeStudent of the Year). Excellence Award WebsiteTAFE NSW Barrington Raymund Roberts MemorialScholarshipCookery student Emma Aboud was awarded the acclaimedTAFE NSW Barrington Raymund Roberts Memorialscholarship. The statewide scholarship is awarded annuallyto promote excellence in cookery training in TAFE NSW bysupporting the winner to further their studies and career.The ICE ScholarshipTAFE NSW – NSI State Medal Awards WinnersNSI students received 26 TAFE NSW State Medal Awards in2006. These awards are presented to students who achievethe highest marks in their TAFE NSW courses statewide.Khang Huynh Le from Vietnam became the first recipientof the inaugural Tourism and Hospitality EducationInternational Centre of Excellence (THE-ICE) and NorthernSydney Institute scholarship in Tourism, Hospitality andEvent Management. Valued at more than $40,000, thescholarship is designed to promote tourism and hospitalityAnnual Report 2006

Our Customers – Exceeding ExpectationsOutcomes and Initiatives for Aboriginal and TorresStrait Islander (ATSI) StudentsThe NSI Gamarada Aboriginal Education and Training Unit(AETU) provided learner support to Aboriginal and TorresStrait Islander students, including student assessment,tutorial, literacy and numeracy support, access to flexible andindividual learning centres, IT enabling skills and mentoringand buddying support systems. These initiatives helpedto achieve a course-completion rate of 62.9 % amongATSI students in 2006. In 2006, 396 students identifiedthemselves as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.Two targetted Trainee Enrolled Nurses (TEN) PreparationPrograms, in partnership with Northern Sydney/CentralCoast and Sydney South West Area Health, were deliveredthrough Royal Prince Alfred and Gosford hospitals. Theprogram prepared ATSI students for the Trainee EnrolledNurses Exam and employment as a Trainee Nurse. Theresults were inspiring and 70% of students passed theexamination.The NSI Gamarada Aboriginal Education Unit delivered atargeted Certificate IV in Workplace Training and AssessmentProgram for Aboriginal students. Following completionof this program, five graduates of the program gainedemployment as part-time teachers. Dedicated programs alsoincluded Certificate III in Indigenous Land Management,Certificate III Tourism (Guiding), Senior First Aid and TAFEtaster courses in Kitchen Operations andIndigenous Arts and Crafts for girls from theBiala Hostel.New innovative courses, conducted as part of the establishedNSI Digi-Girls Program, which promotes opportunities forgirls in the Information and Communication Technologyindustry, included Robotics at Meadowbank College andRadio Broadcasting Technology at Bradfield Senior College.Students learned to construct and operate a robot usingintroductory programming language and broadcastproduction techniques with Triple JJJ ’s Zan Rowe as guestpresenter. In total some 50 girls from Year 10 and aboveparticipated.Crows Nest College conducted a number of short courses inIT, targeting women with school-age children who wished toreenter the workforce or commence studies in IT. Studentswere recruited through school newsletters and many wenton to study in Certificate II and gain qualifications.Meadowbank College, hosted a ‘Girls in IT’ program,targeting students from Cherrybrook and Burwood GirlsHigh schools. This program provided an introduction to ITcareers and wireless and networking technologies.NSI celebrated International Women’s Day with a GraphicDesign Industry Exhibition at Hornsby College, featuringwomen digital designers and students and their work.The purpose of the event was to encourage more womenstudents to complete the digital elective in their final yearof study.In response to the introduction of anAboriginal Electives module within theTrainee Enrolled Nurses Program, elementsof the Aboriginal Cultural Education coursedeveloped by the TAFE NSW AboriginalEducation and Training Directorate weredelivered to two groups of NSI managers,teachers and nursing personnel.Outcomes and Initiatives for WomenFollowing the success of the previous year’sprogram, NSI, in conjunction with local ICTCompany CXC Consultants Exchange PtyLtd, again delivered a customised trainingprogram targeted at women wanting toreturn to the workforce, study or enterthe ICT industry. In 2006, 11 studentscompleted the Certificate IV in InformationTechnology.In collaboration with Westfield Hornsby, agroup of 15 women over 45 years of ageundertook an innovative course that focusedon retail and employability skills, and allparticipants were offered employment afterthey completed the course.Annual Report 2006

Our Customers – Exceeding ExpectationsOutcomes and Initiatives for Students with a Disability(SWD)NSI recruited two new teacher consultants, specialising inhearing impairment and psychiatric disability, to furthersupport students and help the growing number of studentsreporting serious psychological difficulties.In 2006 NSI teacher consultants expanded a project thatfocused on ‘hidden disabilities’. The consultants developed aDVD and online resources to help teachers provide learningand assessment strategies for students with mental healthissues. They also trained customer service staff, providingthem with appropriate strategies to meet the needs ofthese customers.In 2006 NSI developed and delivered the Mental Health FirstAid Course, a program to help staff to support students andcolleagues who may have metal health issues.NSI teacher consultants provided training workshops forinstitute managers, teachers and non educational staff,focusing on removing the attitudinal, communication andphysical barriers that impact on students with a disabilityand the development of skills to help these customers. Astaff-development resource titled the ‘NSI Note-TakersManual’ was updated to include strategies for use withstudents who have psychiatric or learning disabilities.NSI conducted workshops for students with AutismSpectrum Disorder, focusing on developing communicationand social skills.Outcomes and Initiatives for the Unemployed andMature AgeNSI commenced delivery of a Certificate II in ComputerApplications through the VET Priority Places Program, whichis designed to increase VET opportunities for low-incomeearners who have a disability, are mature-aged, or areparents reentering the workforce.The Institute was successful in obtaining NSW Boardof Vocational Education and Training (BVET) EmergingPriorities Funding to deliver training that targeted matureage people (aged 45–65) in a range of areas, includingretail, educational support, computing, financial services,children services, aged care and trades.Several Basic IT Enabling Skills courses for mature workerswere conducted, including an extension course thatresulted in completion of the Certificate I in InformationTechnology.Under the Partnering –Training for Older Workers funding,NSI delivered training courses to two groups of unemployedor mature age workers in the Certificate III in Aged Care andAccess to Nursing.During 2006, NSI expanded provision of the Pathwaysto Employment Education and Training (PEET) program,focusing on literacy, numeracy and employability skills tomaximise participation and employment outcomes for theunemployed.A new model for providing support to TVET students witha disability, and enhancing collaboration with regionalschools, was developed. This model was based on astandardised reporting form to help with equity placementand ensure consistency in the provision of support. In 2006,135 TVET school students were supported by NSI teacherconsultants.A group of deaf and hearing-impaired students undertookan innovative program titled ‘Introduction to Film Making’,in which they learned basic film-making skills. They alsoproduced a short film titled ‘The Find’ which was launchedin the Director’s Suite at Fox Studios. This film will be enteredin Tropfest 2007.Teacher consultants participated in several communityexpositions that promoted vocational training and supportservices for people with mental-health issues, joining forceswith Club Speranza and Northern Area Health.TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Our Customers – Exceeding ExpectationsOutcomes and Initiatives for Youth at Risk (YAR)NSI expanded the delivery of programs for young peopleand the proportion of 15–19 year old students at NSI hasincreased from 27% in 2005 to 29% in 2006.TAFE Taster programs were conducted at Meadowbankand North Sydney colleges in collaboration with regionalschools for students at risk or disengaged from education,having recently left school. The programs focused on theskills-shortage areas of carpentry and joinery, hairdressing,engineering and panel beating.NSI - Hornsby College conducted the ‘Break Through’Program in collaboration with community organisationssuch as the Police Citizens Youth Club, designed to developproblem-solving and leadership skills among youth in thejuvenile justice system and those who are geographically orsocially isolated.Helping Young People at Risk (HYPAR) programs conductedthrough NSI Outreach sections, which targeted youth at risk,included Graphic Design, Hair and Beauty, Electrotechnology,Car Detailing and Automotive Spray Painting. Employerssuch as Target helped students to develop practical retailskills.Crows Nest College students participated in an innovativedigital-music program, conducted by internationallyrecognised composer and sound artist, Colin Black.A group of NSI Youth at Risk students had the opportunityto develop screen and film making skills, culminating in theproduction of a short film titled ‘Hansel and Gretel’, whichwill be entered in the Sony Tropfest Film Festival in 2007.As a result, a number of students intend to pursue a careerwithin the industry.The Strategic Skills Training Program provided fundingfor training of two groups of disadvantaged people aged15–24 years in the Certificate II in General and VocationalEducation at Meadowbank College.Programs were conducted at NSI colleges to help studentswith Aspergers Syndrome to develop their social andcommunication skills.NSI submitted and subsequently won a tender to delivercourses under the Commonwealth Connections Programdesigned to re-engage youth at risk, commencing in 2007.Annual Report 2006

Our People - Developing CapabilityNSI is committed to valuing its staff and providing aworkplace that recognises their contributions and buildstheir capacity.Workforce DevelopmentTo meet the changing needs of the Institute’s workforce, thefollowing staff were recruited and employed during 2006:• 67 part-time casual teachers• 286 full-time teaching, administrative and clericalpositions• 76 temporary teacher positions• 22 regional corporate-services positionsNSI also received 72 expressions of interest for positions.In January 2006 the Institute implemented a neworganisational structure and a new strategic-teamframework for corporate governance. Seven new businesslines and ten new peak work groups were created to furtherimprove the quality of the business, lay solid foundationsfor management and supervision, promote responsibledecision making and accountability and transparent action,recognise and manage risk and encourage enhancedperformance and integrity.The Institute’s new Business Line structure establishedseven business lines, each led by an Associate Directorand Business Line Manager, and supported by a BusinessDevelopment Consultant. This structure reflected the keyindustry areas:• Access and General Education• Business and Commerce• Community Services and Health• Industry and Environment• Information Communications Technology, Media andArts• Schools Partnership and TVET• Tourism and Hospitality and Events ManagementPeak Work Groups chaired by members of the InstituteExecutive and composed of a cross-section of NSI staffwere also created, reflecting key elements of the Institute’sbusiness, including business development, customer service,student services and the environment. The key aim is toimprove the Institute’s capability and performance.Stage Two of the Educational Support Services Review(Library Services) was completed and Stage 3 (ICT Services)was commenced. Through these systematic reviews NSIwill continue to adjust and enhance its educational supportservices to provide appropriate levels of support to colleges,sections and units, while generating efficiencies andproductivity gains.An online recruitment site was launched, accessible viathe Northern Sydney Institute intranet and internet,which provides internal and external applicants with allthe necessary information to gain employment within theInstitute.The Electronic Establishment Control System (eEC) wasimplemented and training was provided to relevant staff.The DET strategic Occupational Health & Safety ManagementSystem (OHSMS) was implemented in NSI in compliancewith the OH&S Act 2000 and the OH&S Regulation 2001,following the DET Safe Working and Learning Strategycampaign to raise awareness of the new system amongworkplace managers. A Sharepoint site was also developedto support staff in the use of the system, including guidelinesand procedures.A general safety awareness campaign was undertaken,targeting colleges via OH&S consultation committees acrossthe Institute.Organisational LearningNSI Professional Development ProgramsDuring 2006, 4,316 participants took part in 523 separateprofessional development activities, supporting NSI’s newstructural alignment and business focus through:• participating in an online Child Protection program,undertaken by 1,220 staff members• participating in coaching, mentoring and performancemanagement workshops for managers, head teachersand team leaders, attended by 133 staff members• upskilling 121 staff in presentation strategies• ensuring that teachers and managers engage with otherpractitioners to improve their skills; 61 staff membersattended the 2006 TAFE NSW International Centre forVET (ICVET) Learning Powerhouse conference• providing opportunities for NSI staff to teach themselvesmanagement skills through the NSI Skills Online system.NSI staff were encouraged and supported to participate inprofessional development activities, including embracing abroad range of new technologies, teaching and learningmethodologies, Unit-Based Enrolments and assessmentvalidation, multicultural and environmental awareness,internal systems and procedures such as staff selection, andprograms designed to meet legislative and accreditationrequirements such as OH&S.A group of 20 NSI senior managers and executivesparticipated in a series of business development trainingworkshops delivered by the Executive Development Unit ofthe University of Technology, Sydney. The sessions providedan opportunity for the group of key decision makers to learnabout marketing strategy and methodology in the contextof the current VET training market. The workshops included10 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Our People - Developing Capabilitythe development of informed and dynamic marketing plansthat will maximise the impact of the realignment of theInstitute’s business activities.LearnScope projects funded by the Australian FlexibleLearning Framework provided participants with anopportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in flexibledelivery options for their students and build the Institute’scapability.The Communicating in Community Services projectdeveloped by Community Services teachers at NorthernBeaches College involved the use of a range of socialsoftware technologies such as forums, wikis, blogs anddigital storytelling and photography to create a teachingand learning community between staff and students withinthe section. The use of e-learningResource, sharing tools such as Sharepoint, allowed thesection to develop a resource and assessment repository forstaff.The eNABLE ESOL learners project focused on developingthe digital and web development skills of the ESOL teachers,also at Northern Beaches College. These newly acquiredskills resulted in the production of a range of eLearningresources to be used in an online environment that supportsself-access and self-paced learning in the College’s IndividualLearning Centres.The eLearning for Hair & Beauty project upskilled teachersin the Hair and Beauty Section of the Meadowbank College.The project resulted in the development and implementationof a new set of resources, which are now being used toteach students in an online and flexible mode. Socialcommunication technologies were also explored, resultingin the deployment of a blog site for use as part of theflexible-delivery options offered to students.NSI IT teachers started a project using emerging prioritiesfunding to develop resource materials and assessmenttools and strategies to implement selected courses andcompetencies in the new ICA05 Information Technologytraining package, for use TAFEwide.Northern Sydney Institute was successful in gaining fundingfor four Reframing the Future Projects to develop theskills of VET practioners and enhance the capability of theInstitute. Projects focused on establishing a community ofpractice, using coaching as a framework for developinginnovation and creativity in teaching and learning practice,upskilling the Institute’s staff in the methods of creatingand implementing learning and assessment strategiesand assessment validation plans for Training Packages,generally.In response to the introduction of individual professionaldevelopment plans for all teachers in late 2006, NSI’s StaffLearning and Development Unit developed a database torecord the details from the negotiated plans to identifytrends and better provide support and advice to staff.Staff Achievements and AwardsAUSTAFE National Leadership Award 2006Ardyce Harris, Associate Director, Northern Sydney Institute,received the 2006 AUSTAFE National Leadership Award. Theaward is made each year to a TAFE manager in recognitionof their outstanding and innovative approach and leadershipin Vocational Education and Training.NSW Minister for Education and Training and AustralianCollege of Educators Quality Teaching Award 2006Northern Sydney Institute teachers, David Bartolo, Teacherof Information Technology, Crows Nest College, PeterCox, Head Teacher of Information Technology, BradfieldSenior College, Lisa Hendriksen, Head Teacher of VisualArts, Bradfield College and Susan Monti, Head Teacher ofWelfare, Northern Beaches College, received 2006 QualityTeaching Awards from the Australian College of Educatorsand the NSW Minister for Education and Training.TheAwards recognise outstanding accomplishment in teachingpractice at all levels of education.NSW Meritorious Service to Public Education andTraining Award 2006Carpentry and Joinery Teacher Robert Brown from HornsbyCollege received a ‘Commended Award’ at the MeritoriousService to Public Education and Training Awards. The Awardsrecognise the outstanding achievements and contributionsof an individual to public education and the community.TAFE NSW Managers’ Association Leadership Award2006Emily Brown, College Services Manager, Hornsby College,was awarded a TAFE NSW Managers Association LeadershipAward. The Award is specifically designed to recognise andencourage the work of outstanding frontline managers inTAFE NSW.Scholarships2006 Premier’s Kingold Chinese Bridge Language TeacherScholarship Xiao Yun Wu part-time teacher of English forSpeakers of Other Languages and Mandarin LanguageTeacher from Meadowbank College received a Premier’sKingold Chinese Bridge Language Teacher Scholarships. Thescholarship is open to all teachers of the Chinese languagein NSW schools and TAFE NSW institutes, and it enablesrecipients to visit centres of educational excellence aroundthe world.Conference ParticipationA number of Northern Sydney Institute staff presentedpapers to national and state conferences:Lynne Shaw, Manager of Teaching and Learning andPerformance Development, presented a paper on QualityAssurance in Offshore Delivery at the National AUSTAFEConference in Canberra.Annual Report 2006 11

Our People - Developing CapabilityMarion Fitzpatrick, Head Teacher, and Deborah Whitbread,Teacher of Commercial Cookery at Ryde College, andLynn Vanderwagen, Head Teacher, and Ron Beeldman,Teacher of Tourism and Events Management at NorthernBeaches College, presented papers at the 2006 TAFE NSWInternational Centre for VET Teaching and Learning (ICVET)Conference in Sydney titled ‘Interactive Resources – The Wayto Go – The Recipe For Success in Commercial Cookery’ and‘Teaching Experiences in China’, respectively.Sandra Grace, Teacher of Massage Therapy at MeadowbankCollege, presented papers at the Australian TraditionalMedicine Society Skills Update Seminar in Adelaide andthe Emerging Researches in Ageing Conference, held inSydney.Dr Diane Harris, Part-Time Teacher of English at BradfieldSenior College, presented a paper titled ‘What a piece ofwork is a man – Questions of Humanity in Hamlet and BladeRunner’ at the VIII World Shakespeare Congress hosted bythe University of Queensland.Tony MurtaghTony Murtagh, Film and TV teacher anddialogue editor, received a Best Sound Award at theAustralian Screen Sound Guild Awards in Sydney.Other Staff AchievementsRew Hanks, Teacher of Print Making at MeadowbankCollege, won the Purchase Prize at the 14th Seoul SpaceInternational Print Biennial and the 2006 Willoughby ArtPrint Prize.Louise Lammers, Head Teacher of Graphic Design, HornsbyCollege and Tracey Serhan, Teacher of Beauty, MeadowbankCollege, shared their skills with local students in a TAFEGlobal sponsored summer school known as the ‘Al AinSummer Challenge’ in Abu Dhabi.Anne Goonetilleke, Head Teacher, Hospitality Management,Ryde College, was selected as a member of the Departmentof Education, Science and Training’s Endeavour ScholarshipSelection Committee. The program provides the opportunityfor students within the Asia Pacific region to study inAustralia.GrantsDr Stephen Black, Head Teacher of Adult FoundationEducation at Meadowbank College was successful forthe second successive year in securing NCVER fundingfor a research study titled ‘Adult Literacy and NumeracyDevelopment Partnership: Social Capital Approaches’. Thestudy is a collaboration between the Institute and CharlesDarwin and James Cook universities. It will involve anational analysis of community-based literacy and numeracyprograms in health, community development, welfare,finance and justice.12 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Our Business - Growth and DiversificationIn 2006 the Institute continued to develop productsand services to meet the needs of individuals, industry,enterprises and the community.New Products and ServicesIn response to the need to provide specialist training forEnrolled Nurses in Dialysis in NSW, Northern Sydney Institutejoined forces with Fresenius Medical Care (FMC) to developthe Advanced Diploma in Renal Dialysis. The Diplomacomprises a blend of college and workplace delivery andassessment. NSI and FMC will jointly deliver the qualificationin 2007, in a pilot program with South West Area HealthService.Northern Sydney Institute collaborated with the NationalParks Association (NPA) and the TAFE NSW PrimaryIndustry and Natural Resources Curriculum Centre inthe development of the Statement of Attainment inMarine and Coastal Conservation. The combined marineand land management course is the first of its kind inAustralia, designed particularly for volunteers in the NPA’sHarbourkeepers and Coastalkeepers programs. It providesan educational and career pathway for more than 800volunteers who are active in the programs, and will alsobe used to recognise the efforts of other environmentalvolunteers working within the community.Diploma in Software Development, to suit the specificneeds of the Games Development Industry in Australia.Thirty students started the program at NSI-Hornsby Collegein 2006. Graduates will be able to enter a University ofTechnology Sydney undergraduate degree with considerableadvanced standing in 2008.During 2006, Northern Sydney Institute developed theonly fast-track Certificate IV and Diploma in Make-upcourses available in TAFE NSW, specialising in the trainingof make-up artists for work in the film, television, fashion,entertainment and theatre industries. The program drawson the combined resources of the hairdressing, makeup,film and TV and digital media facilities of NSI-NorthSydney College and offers participants coordinated workplacement.The NSI - Le Cordon Bleu Sydney Culinary Arts Institutecommenced the Diploma of Professional CulinaryManagement (Diploma V of Hospitality Management),an intensive program to further develop the professionalmanagement skills of chefs and cookery managers.In response to industry demand, NSI-Northern BeachesCollege customised the Certificate III in Marine Studies toalso allow participants to complete deckhand qualificationsand equip them with the skills to pursue careers inecotourism or as research assistants.To meet market demand and capitalise on the introductionof a new training package, Northern Sydney Institutedeveloped an accelerated one-year full-time Diploma inAccounting and an 18-month Advanced Diploma course.The duration of part-time offerings were also reduced fromfour to three years, for trial in 2007.NSI - Meadowbank College became the first college in TAFENSW to offer the new Diploma in Financial Services (FinancialPlanning) which qualifies graduates to provide professionalfinancial advice, planning and analysis to clients.To establish the Institute as the principal provider ofenvironmental and horticulture training in the NorthernSydney region, delivery of the Certificate IV in MarineStudies and the Certificate II in Horticulture (Landscape)were expanded to NSI - Northern Beaches College.Northern Sydney Institute, in collaboration with theCemeteries and Crematoria Association of NSW (CCANSW),developed and delivered the Statement of Attainmentin Funeral Services – (Safe Grave Techniques), drawingparticipants from across the state. The course is for peopleemployed as grounds maintenance staff or gravediggers inthe funeral industry in response to a current skills shortagein the sector. On completion of the course, participantsreceive credit toward the Certificate III in Funeral Services(Gravedigging, Grounds and Maintenance).NSI commenced delivery of a Certificate III in Irrigationfrom the new Rural Production Training Package, with afocus on urban irrigation to meet the demand for trainingin issues around domestic-water conservation. The courseoffers plumbers and other trades people the opportunity toincrease their knowledge of water management.In 2006 NSI expanded delivery of the Certificates II and IVin Fitness and the Certificate IV in Sport and Recreation(Specialising in Events and Facilities) to NSI - NorthernBeaches to meet a gap in the training market on thepeninsula.A growing interest in interactive games developmentskills resulted in Northern Sydney Institute adapting andcontextualising the existing training package qualification,Annual Report 2006 13

Our Business - Growth and DiversificationLearning SupportA new comprehensive Counselling and Careers websitewas launched for prospective students, careers advisors andparents. The site features sections such as Education, StudySkills, Careers and Personal and is fully downloadable withlinks to other useful sites.Several Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) InformationKits were developed to help students and internal staff,including assessors and customer service personnel, with therecognition process and made available via the NSI intranetand the internet. A separate information brochure wasproduced for distribution to new and prospective students.Flexible and Innovative DeliveryNSI is committed to meeting the diverse needs of learnersand industry by offering flexible, innovative approachesto learning and teaching. In 2006 this was achieved bytrialling and using new technologies while capitalising onthe strengths of existing approaches; assessing how newtechnologies improve and enhance the way we teach, learnand assess; building and expanding staff awareness andcapability in technology solutions.In 2006 the number of students and staff using online andflexible, blended approaches in delivery and assessmentgrew with a particular emphasis on the use of web2technologies to enhance teaching and learning and engagea wide range of learners by providing flexible, personalisedlearning opportunities.Fifty nine courses at NSI now use blended modes of deliverywithin the Janison Learning Management System (twentyninenew courses in 2006, an increase of 49%) and locallydeveloped resources complemented by either TAFE ConnectLearningware or Flexible Learning Toolboxes.The Certificate lV in Lifestyle and Leisure at NSI - NorthernBeaches College was adapted to meet the training needsof recreation staff from over six aged-care and disabilitiesfacilities. The program involves part recognition of existingskills and knowledge and part gap training, reducing theamount of time spent in the classroom. The same courseat NSI - Meadowbank College uses the expertise of aspecialist diversional therapist, and learners are required todemonstrate learning outcomes in their workplace as wellas completing simulated work-based tasks in class.Retail units from the Certificates II & III Beauty courseswere adapted for online delivery to NSI students in 2007.Students received an orientation to e-learning and ongoingphone and email support and access to assessments andlearning material.Students of the Certificate III and Certificate IV in DisabilityWork were enrolled via a work-based recognition and skillsgaptraining pathway. Students were issued with supportdocuments to guide them through the development of theirportfolios of evidence. The portfolios were then assessedand the remaining units or elements were addressedthrough the development of individual learning plans.NSI in collaboration with Australian Consolidated PressMagazines (ACP Magazine Ltd) developed a distanceeducation and online training program in the Certificate IVin Retail Management, which is being delivered nationally to100 newsagents. Participants are supported by a CD Rom,online-learning site and industry-experienced retail teachersand mentors, via telephone and email. The course includeswork-related projects so participants learn through workbasedexamples and purpose-designed learning materials.• The number of NSI teachers facilitating study groups usingthe Janison Toolbox increased by 62% (from 85 to 128),and the number of learners with access to the Toolboxincreased by 29% (from 1,177 to 1,531).The TAFE Online 2 (TOL2) program has provided NSI withopportunities to develop capability in e-learning and trialnew technologies to enhance delivery and assessment. In2006 a number of projects were conducted as TOL 2 Accessto New Technologies (ANT) trials which will continue into2007.These trials involved using a range of technologies inthe teaching and learning process such as laptops, PDAs,iPods, Adobe Connect software for web conferencing andincreased wireless networking access to support podcasting,digital storytelling and mobile learning.The Media & Communications Section at NSI - MeadowbankCollege used laptops, PDAs and wireless networkingtechnology to collect, collate and submit relevant data,photographs and records relating to assessment tasksand to produce the Meadowbank College Association’snewsletter.Floristry students at Ryde College were provided with e-learning opportunities in the retail subjects of their courses,and students participated in an orientation to e-learning,accessing teaching and assessment resources online. Ablog was created to enable staff to share resources and toexpand the students’ knowledge.14 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Our Business - Growth and DiversificationPartnerships and commercial venturesNorthern Sydney Institute has been successful in forgingpartnerships with industry as part of its strategy to growthe business and enhance professional developmentopportunities for its staff. In 2006 NSI sought to developnew, and enhance existing, inter-organisational relationshipsand partnerships.Northern Sydney Institute and Expect-A-Star EducationServices, entered into a partnership to deliver intensiveprograms in Children’s Services to address a skills shortage inthe industry. The Certificate III and Diploma-level programsare designed to fast track the training of those withexperience in the childcare industry, mature-age workerswith previous relevant work experience or anyone wanting toupdate their existing qualifications to nationally recognisedTAFE NSW qualifications. The partnership gives participantsaccess to industry-based recruitment consultants, optionsfor casual work, and a job placement service when theyhave completed their course. Graduates of the Diplomalevelcourse are also able to gain credits to enter relevantdegree-level programs at Charles Sturt, Macquarie, NewEngland or Western Sydney universities. The first graduatescompleted courses at the end of 2006, and two new groupsare set to start courses in early 2007.The Institute has signed deeds of delivery with a numberof hairdressing chains including Cordony Hairdressing,Cassidy’s and the Art of Hair, allowing them to delivertraining in their salons. Assessment and certification will becarried out by NSI.Northern Sydney Institute commenced a major three-yearcontract with Scientific Management Associates (SMA) todeliver training in Fabrication, Welding, Composite BoatBuilding, Fitting, Machining and Hydraulics to the RoyalAustralian Navy, with the option of a two-year extension.For the first time NSI delivered the Aboriginal CulturalAwareness Program to a group of Department ofEnvironment and Conservation staff. Training was conductedat numerous local aboriginal heritage sites.In 2006 the Institute continued to build on its relationshipwith the Wrigley Company Pty Ltd delivering a repeatof the successful customised Certificate IV in FrontlineManagement delivered onsite to a range of personnel,including production staff.The Institute also delivered the Certificate IV in Training andAssessment to over 50 employees of the CommonwealthBank and 60 employees of QANTAS Airways and WarringahCouncil, using a combination of recognition of prior learningon and offsite training, and some online learning.Northern Sydney Institute commenced delivery of theCertificate IV in Aged Care to staff from a number of localaged-care organisations, using funding accessed throughthe Better Skills for Better Care Program. Aged-care workersobtained or upgraded their qualifications, which helped toensure that the workforce is able to meet the needs of ourageing population in the coming years. Staff from NewHorizons Aged-Care Facility, SMJJH Camelot Pty Ltd, SirMoses Montefiore Jewish Home and Calvary RetirementCommunity Ryde Ltd received training as part of thisarrangement.NSI forged a strong relationship with Hornsby Shire Council,which benefited both organisations and the broadercommunity. In addition to a WELL (Workplace EnglishLanguage and Literacy) program for 70 staff, the Institutedelivered Environmental Work Practices training for 50staff, which was designed to raise the awareness of outdoorworkers about the environmental impact of their work.Northern Beaches College delivered Elements of ShipboardSafety for the Commonwealth Department of Environmentand Heritage in Canberra with more courses proposed for2007.Specialist horticulture and environmental training wasundertaken by Ryde College, delivering AboriculturalAwareness training to employees of the NSW Land andEnvironment Court and enterprises such as CountryEnergy.Building on a strong existing relationship with SydneyTurf Club, Ryde College delivered customised corporateculturetraining to 560 staff through one-day workshops,focusing on achieving change management within theorganisation. Additional training was delivered in effectivestaff management to 60 full-time and casual employees.The Institute delivered Japanese culture and languagetraining onsite to employees of Canon Information SystemsAustralia to enhance their cross-cultural communicationskills and understanding.Technical training in fibre optics, safety inspection andtesting, and restricted electrical licence/work, were deliveredto enterprises including AARNET, Dematic, Douwe EgbertsCoffee Systems, JOEL, NECA Group training and ServiceStream.NSI provided CISCO CCNA training to two groups of TCNChannel Nine employees.Annual Report 2006 15

Our Business - Growth and Diversificationhospitality for school students. Students also participatedin the Independent Schools Hospitality Program, which wasconducted for 5 days and enabled students to sample TAFEstudy while participating in practical onsite learning at theNSI Blaxland Hotel and Conference Complex.In partnership with North-West Business Education Network(NWBEN), NSI TVET staff investigated and implementedstrategies that will develop wider consultation with thecommunity, industry and parent groups to support andencourage participation in TVET and other vocationaleducational programs.After widespread canvassing of local community partnershipsincluding industry, four automotive pre-employmentprograms were conducted within the Institute. Many of the45 participants were drawn from local schools.Peer Literacy training was delivered to 15 schools within theNorthern Sydney region.A number of short commercial programs were conductedfor schools, providing training in areas such as OH&S SiteInduction, animation, multimedia and Photoshop.TAFE Delivered Vocational Educationand Training (TVET)Northern Sydney Institute continued to experience strongdemand for TVET programs with 2,607 enrolments in2006, an increase of 7.9% over 2005. The increase canbe attributed to the development of strong networks andrelationships with local schools and the willingness ofcolleges to deliver courses, through servicing arrangements,where there is demand.NSI TVET student results for courses contributing to theUniversities Admission Index of students continued toremain above state averages. Northern Sydney TVETstudents continued to achieve excellent results in the 2006NSW HSC, achieving first in the State for Accounting, theInstitute’s first Band 6 results in Construction and Hospitality,numerous Band 5 results in Business Services, and Tourismstudents were represented in the Top Achievers in Courselist.Growth has reflected the popularity of courses in Sportand Recreation, Hair and Beauty, Welfare and Nursing, thetraditional trades areas of Construction, Electro-technologyand Graphic Design, Multimedia and Web Design. Crosssectoralpromotional activities continued to focus on theopportunities available in skill-shortage areas and developingnetworks.For the first time, NSI - Hornsby College conducted asuccessful targeted-TVET IT program for girls, and twostudents in the group achieved a Band 6 result. One studentwon a Gold Medal at the National WorldSkills competition.(Further details are shown in the Student Achievements andAwards section of this report).In response to popular demand, an innovative course inAutomotive Sound Installation was completed by 30 TVETstudents at Hornsby College.NSI TVET continued to expand delivery of courses thatcapture the local flavour of schools and student demand,and it is preparing to offer boat building to Pittwater HighSchool for the 2007 Academic Year.Hornsby College TVET Events Management studentsparticipated in an innovative partnership with Hornsby ShireCouncil to develop a music/skate event for Youth Week.Year 12 students were provided with more flexible deliveryoptions for completion of the Certificate II in Accountingand Hospitality through block delivery during vacationperiods.NSI has developed a School Partnership and TVET Plan forworking together with schools to achieve better vocationaland further study outcomes for students, and NSI participatedin the regional School Industry Leaders Forum.TVET staff continued to work closely with school specialeducationconsultants to provide course offerings andpost-school options for students with special needs. An NSITVET special needs student outcomes survey conducted in2005–2006 indicated that 75% of students with specialneeds who completed a TVET course were employed inearly 2006.Community LinksThe Institute continued to develop its links to and supportfor the community through various initiatives.In 2006, Northern Beaches College developed stronglinks with the local Tibetan community, which led to thedevelopment of a volunteer mentoring program to assistmigrant and refugees with settlement and educationalissues. The Institute has also been successful in gainingDepartment of Education, Science and Training (DEST)funding to deliver complementary language training tosupport the new settlers to pass their licence test.Carpentry and Joinery students from Hornsby Collegecompleted construction projects for Rural Fire Services,Brooklyn Brigade and Wahroonga Primary School as partof their studies.Northern Beaches Community Services (Welfare ) students incollaboration with local community services workers hosteda Conference titled ‘Social Justice in the New Millennium’with the aim of bringing together the community servicesindustry in the Northern Sydney region to explore key issuesand future directions in the areas of mental health, housingand disability, and strengthened community networks. Theevent had a line-up of high-profile guest speakers, includingProfessor Julian Disney of the Social Justice Project from theFaculty of Law, University of NSW, and it was attended by180 participants.Annual Report 2006 19

Our Business - Growth and DiversificationThe Millennium Institute at Westmead Children’s Hospitalwas the worthy recipient of new garden, courtesy of RydeCollege landscape construction students.During National Cerebral Palsy Week, Northern BeachesCollege teacher consultants and hairdressing teachersparticipated in a program on Women’s Health and Wellbeingat Forestville, sponsored by the Spastic Centre.the event attracted over 180 people from across NSW.Former Ryde College student and winner of the McWilliamsSommelier Student of the Year (based on 2003–2004results), Alex Trevisan, spoke to the audience about hisrewarding experience at TAFE NSW and his subsequentcareer.Hornsby College’s Graphic Design Section worked withHornsby Council to design an anti-litter promotional posterfor use on community waste bins.Northern Sydney Institute became an important element ofthe local community partnership for the Ryde, Hunters Hilland Kuring-gai region, which was launched in 2006 at theEden Gardens and Garden Centre. This project aims to growcollaborative arrangements between employers, TAFE andVET students.Celebrating a twenty-five yearassociation between ManlyArt Gallery and Museum andNorthern Beaches College,fine arts, digital arts anddesign students showcasedtheir talents just as theircontemporaries did when theprestigious partnership firststarted in 1981. The ‘Catch25’ Exhibition was the first experience as an exhibitor formany students.‘School to TAFE’ events were held at North Sydney, Hornsby,Meadowbank, Northern Beaches and Hornsby College tointroduce school students, parents and members of thelocal community to the many options available at TAFENSW. Promoted throughout the northern region of Sydney,event visitors were invited to speak with teaching staff andtour NSI’s specialist training facilities and venues.Through its Hornsby College, NSI was the venue for theLucien Bernhard Exhibition.In November Northern Beaches College hosted its annualBear Cottage fundraising dinner to benefit the Bear Cottagechildren’s hospice in Manly. Bear Cottage is NSW’s onlychildren’s hospice and offers both respite and palliative careto children with life limiting illnesses and their families.Promotional InitiativesThroughout 2006, NSI sponsored a selection of industryevents, including the Innovation Lecture and Exposition(Sydney and Melbourne), Tourism Training Australia’sNational Conference, and the Institute was co-NSW sponsorat the 2006 Pearcey Foundation Award.The exhibition delivered a comprehensive retrospective ofthe work of renowned graphic designer Lucien Bernhard.The exhibition was made possible through the efforts ofthe Goethe Institute Sydney and Hornsby College’s graphicdesign teaching section.In November 2006, North Sydney’s Digital Media staffapplied their specialist skills to produce and coordinate theinaugural New Media Student Showcase at the 2006 TAFEDirector’s Association National Conference (November). TheShowcase profiled highlights of 150 digital media, screenand web design entries from across Australia’s 55 TAFEinstitutes and colleges.In March 2006, NSI was one of four institutes to coordinatethe inaugural TAFE NSW Information Day for CareersCounsellors and Year Coordinators. Held at Ultimo College,20 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Our Intellectual Capital — Creating andSharing KnowledgeNSI is committed to acquiring, organising and sharingknowledge assets to enable us to realise our vision.We continue to develop a knowledge-sharing culture in linewith the strategic directions of the Institute by encouragingand supporting the collection and sharing of tacit and explicitknowledge across NSI spaces, developing and continuouslyimproving our systems and processes, and recognising andpromoting staff achievement though a mix of fact-to-faceand online processes and systems.Systems Development and WebsiteImprovementSharePoint 2000 software was upgraded to SharePoint Portal2003, which involved the review and transfer of data fromover 400 teaching and administrative SharePoint websites.17 sharepoint websites were specifically created to supportthe new Institute strategic-team structure, implemented inearly 2006, and allowing the new teams to capture andshare strategic knowledge.NSI websites were created, redesigned and developedaccording to market and business needs. These include:Sydney Coffee AcademyInternational StudentsThe online collaboration tool has enabled the Institute toimprove performance through:• the improved management and access to documentation,including searching functionality• the effective management of lists including contacts,events, announcements, tasks and linksNSI Excellence Awards• the creation and administration of online surveys• efficiencies in meetings, including tools that allow onlinediscussions of topics and documents.Counselling and CareersNSI implemented significant enhancements to its courseprofile, budgeting and activity planning system (SPOT) toreflect the new business-line structure and the inclusionof a module for the capture of course information forboth online and print publication. This module ensuresaccuracy, consistency and quality of course informationdata throughout the Institute.Annual Report 2006 21

Our Intellectual Capital — Creating andSharing KnowledgeNSI Annual ReportA new content management system ‘Contribute’ wasimplemented to ensure all content on NSI websites couldbe more easily maintained, including a workflow processwith identified writers, publishers and administrators.A review of the NSI internet website was commenced toupdate the content and architecture to align with changingbusiness needs. This website will be launched in 2007.Several NSI internal websites were developed or updated,including:• Online Induction Program• Annual Review Implementation• Data & information Links• NSI e-Library – the library ensures that all NSI administrativeresources contain appropriate metadata to improvestorage, access and sharing of resources and ensureinteroperability of storage systems.NSI commenced development of the ‘Dashboard’ tool,including online access to the financial reporting function,which gives head teachers and other NSI managers a quicksummary of the state of their sections, enabling them toreview the target versus actual Annual Student Hours (ASH)and the variance between budget and actual expenditureand to access reports to allow a more detailed analysis offinancial transactions.The Institute enhanced the ‘Business Planning System(BPS)’ which allows staff to develop, monitor and reporton marketing plans and business action plans at thebusiness line, college and support-unit levels. BPS includesan investment module called Business Planing InvestmentApplication System (BPIAS) which enables the plan owner toapply for funding associated with furniture and equipment,capital works, special projects and promotional activities.NSI libraries were involved in the successful implementationof a value-adding project in 2006 to improve the provisionof access to a range of e-books as well as indexed journals.NSI staff and students now have secure 24-hour access to avast array of electronic resources via the TAFE NSW librariesonline catalogue ‘TAFEcat’ at http://tafecat.tafensw.edu.au/tafecat.html).The main subjects for e-books are Business, InformationTechnology and Art, and the e-journals cover a broadspectrum of subjects with Australian content featuredprominently. Positive feedback was received from bothstudents and staff. Staff members recognised the potentialapplications for their teaching, especially for online coursesthat have the ability to embed links to full-text resources.Knowledge SharingThe NSI Knowledge Management Strategy 2005–2007was reviewed, and major NSI projects were mapped to theknowledge management focus areas and core and supportprocess for the Institute. Major projects included:• Business Planning system review• Environmental management system, processes andprocedures review and update• Strategic Intelligence System development andimplementation• Advertising request helpdesk development andimplementation• Standards and procedures for offshore delivery,development and communication.• Knowledge cafes initiative development andimplementation, focusing on e-learning tools andtechnologies to help in the sharing of information thatincludes Sharepoint, blogs and wikis.Intellectual PropertyA number of new products and services and flexible deliveryresources were developed by NSI during 2006 to increasethe learning and service options for our customers (seethese sections of the report for more details).22 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Organisational PerformanceNorthern Sydney Institute 2006 Key Data• There were 50,584 students enrolled at NSI in 2006, and the Institute delivered 12,424,772 annual student hours (ASH)there by achieving a 2.9% growth in student contact hours in relation to 2005 figures.• NSI achieved a Module Completion Rate (MCR) was 81.4% during 2006, higher than the TAFE NSW statewide rate of 79.5%.• The NSI course attrition rate was 7.3%, which was also better than the TAFE NSW statewide rate of 10%.• There were 2,607 enrolments in TAFE-delivered VET in Schools at NSI in 2006, an increase of 7.9% over 2005 figures.• In 2006 the Institute recorded significant enrolment growth in the training areas of Retail (66%), Performing Arts (65%),Design (33%), Access (31%), Sport and Recreation (28%), Accounting (21%), Natural Resources and Environment (20%)over 2005 results. Declines have been recorded in the areas of Finance and Insurance, Manufacturing, Transport, Travel andTourism in comparison to 2005 enrolments.Institute Profile By Curriculum CentreEnrolments by Curriculum Centre 2006EnrolmentsAnnual StudentHoursAccess and General Education 14,614 3,174,708Business, Arts and Information Technology 11,019 3,467,635Community Services, Health, Tourism andRecreation 10,695 3,347,208Manufacturing, Engineering, Construction and Transport 7,671 1,537,779Primary Industries and Natural Resources 2,755 749,823Other (Selected Study Program Sponsor, Inst. Sponsored,TAFE Options, TAFE Plus Category 3)3,830 147,619Institute Total: 50,584 12,424,772Student ProfileEnrolments by CollegeStudent Profile 2006% of Total Enrolments2005 2006Female 47.9% 48.1%Male 52.1% 51.9%Full Time 10.5% 11.3%Part Time 89.6% 88.7%New Enrolments 82.5% 81.4%Re-Enrolments 17.5% 18.6%NESB Home Language 21.1% 25.5%Born in a NES Country 20.4% 24.2%Age 19 Years or Less 28.3% 27.5%Age 20–24 Years 19.5% 19.5%Age 25–29 Years 11.4% 11.1%Age 30–39 Years 16.2% 16.1%Age 40–49 Years 13.7% 13.2%Age 50 Years and Over 11.4% 10.4%Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander 0.7% 0.9%Persons with Disabilities 0.8% 0.9%Previous Study – University Graduates 9.2% 9.3%School Education Level = HSC or Equivalent 40.9% 36.2%Required help with English 6.3% 5.5%Annual Report 2006 23

Organisational PerformanceFinancial PerformanceNorthern Sydney Institute’s Annual Expenditure on Government Funded Activity reflected efficiencies and flexibility enablingre-alignment of non-delivery activities to provide additional delivery resources.The Institute achieved 17.4% in Gross Commercial Income during 2006 representing a 19.6% increase over the previous year.The increase is attributable to the continued expansion of the Le Cordon Bleu partnership, and strong growth in off shorebusiness and TAFEPlus activity.The Institute invested $8.9m in the provision of targeted programs with growth aligned to government initiatives in the areasof disabilities, TVET and skills shortages.Revenue and Expenditure for the Institute (Dollars ‘000)REVENUE2005 2006Sales of goods and services 27847 32,866Grants and contributions 673 937TOTAL REVENUE 28,520 33,803GOVERNMENT FUNDED EXPENDITURE 2005 2006Employee related expenses 109,777 112,082Non-Employee related expensesUtilities 2,589 3,080Property expense and maintenance 11,056 10,399Depreciation charges 12,542 12,776Other operation expenses 12,270 10,126TOTAL NON-EMPLOYEE RELATED EXPENSES 38,457 36,381TOTAL EXPENDITURE 148,234 148,463Less: Depreciation charges (unfunded) 12,542 12,776TOTAL FUNDED EXPENDITURE 135,692 135,687Institute Expenditure on Targeted Programs (Dollars ‘000)2005 2006 FundAustralians Working Together 55 14 10NSW Government Youth Initiatives 64 0 12Disabilities Program 1,554 2,008 13Outreach 879 1,059 20Aboriginal Education Program 130 102 14 & 701Australian Traineeship Scheme 512 250 709 & 710Corrective Services Courses 100 142 718Adult Literacy 118 121 735Enrolled Nursing 1,276 1,520 716Joint Secondary Schools/TAFE 2,822 3,117 717Skills Shortage 127 599 1TradeStart 34 0 711TOTAL 7,524 8,932NSI Balance Sheet (Dollars ‘000)Total Current Assets 11,076 11,362Total Current Liabilities -12,319 -13,141Total non-current Assets 375,042 368,661Total non-current Liabilities -6,566 -7,431Total Inter-Location Clearing Account -60,621 -56,615Total Net Assets 306,611 302,83424 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Organisational PerformanceQuality CertificationAfter undergoing a series of external audits in 2006, NSIwas successful in maintaining quality certification for ISO9001, ISO 14001 and AQTF.NSI achieved ISO 1400:2004 re-certification of itsEnvironmental Management System.The Institute once again showed that it has maintained therequirements of ISO 9001:2000 and, as a result of the AQTFaudit, our re-registration as an RTO has been extended until2009.Environmental AchievementsThe Northern Sydney Institute has successfully maintainedcertification against the ISO14001:2004 internationalenvironmental management standard. The Institute’senvironmental management system provides a consistentapproach to conservation and management of water,energy, materials and waste, air and noise, and land andbiodiversity, across the Institute.In 2006 the Institute initiated rainwater harvesting, energyconservation, waste management and recycling projects.A major water-management project was implemented atRyde College, which allows for water-quality monitoringand improving catchment management on the 10-hectaresite, and it extends these skills and knowledge to students.Northern Sydney Institute participated in the ‘NSW DroughtInitiatives Pilot Program – Business DIY’ initiative, whichenabled some NSI colleges to be audited for water-savingspotential and resulted in the installation of flow-regulatingand restricting devices in amenities fittings.To harvest rainwater for amenities use, Bradfield SeniorCollege installed three water tanks with a combined capacityof 12,000 litres.In 2006, the Northern Sydney Institute recorded an averagedaily water consumption of 334KL as a result of theseinitiatives. This water consumption is down 150KL per dayfrom before NSI joined the Sydney Water Every Drop CountsProgram in 2003.The Institute has implemented schemes for saving energy.Some energy-saving measures have included replacingfluorescent lights with energy-efficient tubes.An emphasis has been placed on raising awareness andtraining in environmental issues. Environmental awarenessand initiatives have been included in staff-induction andstudent-orientation programs.NSI conducted training that focused on improved paperand cardboard recycling for college staff, and it installed 12recycle stations at various points across the colleges.The Institute purchased a Toyota Prius vehicle, which uses acombination of petrol and electricity for power, as a resourcefor training on hybrid-vehicle technology.Resource DevelopmentsThe Institute received substantial funds from bothCommonwealth and State Governments for capitaldevelopments to improve the teaching and learningenvironment in NSI colleges.Capital works projects completedConstruction of Carpentry & Joinery/Portal FrameworkBuilding – Meadowbank College ($664,000). This projectenabled a staged relocation and centralisation of Carpentryand Joinery training, including a portal frame building forfull-scale construction projects.Mechanical Systems Replacement – Ryde ($450,000). Thisproject involved the replacement of a large complex ofcooling towers, which service Building A, a multi-storeybuilding that delivers a broad range of hospitality-trainingprograms.Near completionFilm and Television Upgrade at NSI – North Sydney College($6,403,000): This project involves a full upgrade of Filmand TV facilities and equipment to meet the expandingtraining market for digital technology.Provision of functional facilities for Carpentry and Joinerytraining – Meadowbank College (Stage 2) $341,000. Thisproject completes the staged relocation and centralisationof the college carpentry and joinery training (from the topfloor of Building A) to improve access and application oftraining facilities to meet curriculum requirements andindustry standards.Refurbishment of Children’s Services facilities – Meadowbank($438,000). This proposal involves the improvement ofchild-studies classrooms and the outdoor area used forplay sessions, to ensure compliance with curriculum andindustry standards, including the installation of shading,children’s toilets, nappy-change facilities and new resourcesto support flexible delivery.Construction of an Aboriginal Learning Centre – NorthernBeaches College ($634,000). The Aboriginal Learning Centrewill provide the Institute with a unique and innovative facilityto deliver specialised VET training for the ATSI community.In planningUpgrading and replacement of commercial kitchens (bakingand cookery) – Ryde ($6,200,00). This initiative will involvean upgrade of facilities and the replacement of obsoletemajor-operating plant (for controlling air-conditioning andgeneral service utilities) in Building A, essential for ensuringcompliance with OH&S and building Codes Australiastandards.Annual Report 2006 25

Organisational PerformanceInstitute Expenditure on Capital Works ProgramsCollege Project Project Total College TotalBradfield Slate roof repair and replacement 280,000Soundproofing of music rooms 60,000340,00Meadowbank Electrical upgrade 85,000 85,000Northern Beaches Convert gas heating to electricity 100,000Boundary fence upgrade 50,000150,000North Sydney Installation of water pump 65,000 65,000Ryde Early fire-warning system 273,000 273,000Various Colleges and UpgradesUpgrade of lighting at Meadowbankand Hornsby colleges and CCTV atNorthern Beaches CollegeRoof upgrades at Hornsby, NorthSydney and Ryde College150,000300,000450,000Institute Total 1,363,000 1,363,000Information and Communications TechnologiesDevelopmentsICT continued to maintain and improve the largeinfrastructure of 150 unique and diverse educationalfacilities and 1,500 staff PCs storing 4.5 terabytes of datato underpin the educational delivery and administrativerequirements of the Institute.Projects were undertaken to upgrade and extended theInstitute’s capacity to store and archive email and toenhance the capacity of main resource servers to bettersupport users.A project was undertaken for the integrated multimedia andIT facility at North Sydney College, merging North Sydneyand Crows Nest Information Communications Technologysections in a purpose-built facility.Consultation and expertise was provided to the ProjectControl Group for the Film and TV Project, integratingMacintosh and PC platforms into the Institute network,paving the way for resources to be shared for the first timebetween digital media, film and TV.Organisational AwardsTAFE NSW Quality Awards 2006Northern Sydney Institute teams received an Achievementof Quality Award for the Workplace English Language andLiteracy (WELL) Program in partnership with Cochlear Ltd.NSI also won two ‘Commitment to Quality Awards’ for theDigi-Girls Program, which encourages girls to participate ininformation technology and the Community and IndustryCapacity Building Project, which focused on the organisationof a social justice conference to promote capacity buildingwithin TAFE and the local-service industry.Streamwatch Award 2006NSI - Ryde College received a Sydney Water StreamwatchAward in the Environmental Action – Community Divisionfor its water monitoring program. The program has beenshown to reduce demands on mains water and is helping toreduce pollution of the nearby Parramatta River.Stage III of the Educational-Support Services Review (ICTServices) was commenced, with the aim of improvingsupport services for teaching methodologies within theInstitute, which are continually changing.An Email and Portal Reference Group was formed to workin collaboration with TAFE NSW Information TechnologyDirectorate, facilitating the provision of email services to allstudents.Northern Sydney Institute has worked on the deploymentof web-portal services for staff and students, which willencompass all online information resources.The Institute expanded its wireless networking coverageto assist in providing network access for student and staffoutside computer laboratories and offices. Northern Sydneywill continue to supply resources and new equipment formobile and wireless technologies.26 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute

Advisory Council and ExecutiveTAFE NSW Northern Sydney InstituteAdvisory CouncilThe Northern Sydney Institute Advisory Council (IAC) is arepresentative body which provides advice to enhance NSI’scorporate focus, and it assists the Institute to meet theneeds of industry, the community and individual students.During 2006, the Council comprised:ChairMr Keith GomesDirectorRisk Advisory ServicesKPMGMembersMs Michelle ArmourBusiness Tourism ManagerWhitsundays Convention BureauMs Margie BrownExecutive OfficerShore Regional Organisation of Councils (SHOROC)Ms Wendy FosterExecutive DirectorNorth Sydney Chamber of CommerceMs Elaine HarrisPrincipalHornsby Ku-ring-gai Community CollegeMs Vanessa HobbsStudent RepresentativeMs Maree JaloussisStaff RepresentativeMr John JeremyChartered Professional EngineerDr Ian LinCompany Director/ FuturistProfessor John LoxtonDeputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)Macquarie UniversityMr John QuickTraining ConsultantMr Russell ScottStaff RepresentativeMr George WattsMemberMetropolitan Aboriginal Land CouncilEx-officio member:Mr Kevin HarrisDirectorNorthern Sydney Institute.Annual Report 2006 27

Advisory Council and ExecutiveNorthern Sydney Institute ExecutiveThe Northern Sydney Institute Executive is responsiblefor setting the strategic directions for the Institute andmonitoring performance. The Institute Executive for 2006comprised:Mr Kevin HarrisDirectorMs Ardyce HarrisAssociate Director, InstituteMs Jeanne FehrenbachAssociate DirectorInstitute Performance and Development(Until 3 July 2006)Mr Tony RaeRegional ManagerHuman Resource Services (Northern Sydney RegionalOffice)Mr Joe PraturlonRegional Manager, Financial and Administration Services(Northern Sydney Regional Office)(Until 15 October 2006)Mr Jeff OatesA/Regional Manager, Financial and Administration Services(Northern Sydney Regional Office)(From 16 October 2006)Ms Karen WhittinghamAssociate DirectorBusiness Development(Until 3 July 2006)Ms Irene BoothAssociate Director, Tourism, Hospitality and EventsManagement / College Director, Ryde(Until 4 August 2006)Ms Helen KamAssociate Director, Schools Partnerships and TVET / CollegeDirector, BradfieldA/Associate Director, Tourism, Hospitality and EventsManagement / College Director, Ryde,(From 10 October 2006)Ms Suzanne BergersenR/Associate Director, Schools Partnerships and TVET /College Director, Bradfield(From 10 October 2006)Ms Francesca SaccaroAssociate Director, Community Services and Health/ College Director, MeadowbankMr Kevin KellerAssociate Director, Access and General Education/ College Director, Northern BeachesMs Audette BensonAssociate Director, Industry and Environment/ College Director, HornsbyMs Elizabeth SmithAssociate Director, ICT, Media and Arts/ College Director, North SydneyMaureen SullivanA/Associate Director, Business and Commerce,/ College Director, Crows Nest(Until 10 September 2006)Steve McManusAssociate Director, Business and Commerce, InternationalBusiness / College Director, Crows Nest(From 11 September 2006)Mr Richard FrancisAssociate Director, Tourism, Hospitality and EventsManagement, A/ College Director, Ryde(From 7 August to 8 October 2006)28 TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute