In the shed - Wool handlers sharpen their skills
Timing, technique, talking and teamwork are the four pillars of AWI’s new national on-the-job wool-handler training program
A new, national, skilled wool-handler training program will give wool handlers across the country the chance to improve their techniques and hone their skills while working. The initiative is a key component of AWI’s new three-year national shearer and wool-handler training program, set to start on 1 July 2007.
Joe Sullivan, AWI’s program manager for wool harvesting, says that more than 1800 shearers received training funded by AWI, either in the workplace or while attending structured, improver workshops, in 2006-07.
“When the current program began in 2004, AWI had similar aspirations for wool-handler training, but the uptake by wool handlers was slow and problematic,” Mr Sullivan says. “As a result, we’ve sat down with key people who have a practical approach to wool-handler training at the National Consistency Workshops for trainers across Australia, and have come up with a fresh approach.”
The new training covers the four pillars of wool handling, developed by the AWI national mentoring team with input from the majority of wool-handler trainers across Australia. The pillars focus on timing, technique, talking and teamwork, and are delivered in the shearing shed or in structured workshops.
On-the-job training appeals to people who are not interested in, or able to attend, the more traditional types of training.
The Western Institute of TAFE in Dubbo recently ran a pilot on the wool-handler coaching program, with the support of the NSW Stud Merino Breeders’ Association, the Australian Shearing Contractors Association and AWI. The pilot involved skilled wool-handler trainers providing on-the-job coaching to 100 wool handlers working in sheds across NSW.
Initial feedback from the pilot was very positive and the in-shed coaching program will be rolled out nationally in 2007-08.
AWI aims to deliver training to 1900 shearers and 1400 wool handlers each year over the next three years.
More information: AWI Helpline 1800 070 099, www.wool.com.au
See also: Call for growers to help protect Australia's reputation and Hands-on approach.
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