TAFE apprentice takes top honour at awards night

30/05/2011

The winner of the Institute Director’s Medal was chosen from over 60 Student Achievement Award nominations. It is awarded to the student who has shown exceptional talent and achievement measured against criterion of initiative and excellence in their chosen field of study.
Selecting the recipient of the Institute Director’s Medal was described as "a very difficult task" by Institute Director, Mr Peter Roberts. He said Brendon’s ambition and enthusiasm for the butchery trade and his outstanding achievements made him a very deserving recipient.
"Brendon is a passionate butcher and a role model for other apprentices studying at TAFE. He really proves that hard work and persistence can open many doors and opportunities," Mr Roberts said.
"I have heard he has since been promoted to a meat manager position in a supermarket which just goes to show where a TAFE course can lead you."
On winning the medal, Brendon said he was shocked when his name was called but "very proud."
"I really wasn’t expecting to win the Institute Director’s Medal," he said. "It’s good to get the recognition for all the hard work I put in."
The Institute Achievement Awards is an annual event which acknowledges the outstanding achievements of both students and staff. It showcases the highest standards of teaching and learning, and promotes the strong relationship the Institute has with industry partners.
Brendon also took home the South Western Sydney Institute’s Apprentice of the Year Award for his Certificate III in Meat Processing (Meat Retailing) course at Granville TAFE. He was also nominated for a NSW Training Award and came third in the 2010 Meat Retailing Championship.
He was recently promoted to the Meat Manager position at BI-LO Supermarket (Castle Hill) which he will begin in a few weeks.
"TAFE helped me to become a complete tradesperson. They taught me not only the practical elements of the trade but also things like customer service. They take a holistic approach."
Approximately 400 guests including graduates, their families and representatives from industry, government and community organisations across the region joined in the celebrations.
Enrolments for Semester Two courses open on Monday 27 June, 2011. For information on courses available at TAFE NSW - South Western Sydney Institute visit or phone your local college or log onto www.swsi.tafensw.edu.au .

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