Qualification recognises 14 years of on-the-job skills

Agricultural workers are transforming their years of working on the land into solid qualifications with The University of Queensland

Desley Jackwitz is one of them, gaining recognition for her skills through UQ’s Gatton Vocational Education Centre (G-VEC).

Mrs Jackwitz has helped run Wilamay Farms, a vegetable and salad farm in the Lockyer Valley, since 1998.

She completed a Certificate IV in Agriculture and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment gaining Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), meaning previous work and skills she had learned on the job counted towards her formal qualification.

Mrs Jackwitz says RPL opens doors to future employment for people working in the agriculture industry.

“I completed the training along with some of my staff and we all agreed it is excellent to receive formal recognition of our abilities,” Mrs Jackwitz said.

“I encourage all people in our industry to take advantage of these opportunities as it can assist you in your current role and will improve your job prospects if you are seeking future employment or to turn a job into a career.”

She plans to complete a Diploma in Rural Business Management and an Advanced Diploma in Rural Business Management.

“I am looking forward to completing my diploma, not only to have my skills officially recognised but new skills learnt through training will aid myself and my staff in the proficient running of the business,” she said.

Wilamay Farms employs three permanent staff and up to an additional 12 casual staff during the busy season.

G-VEC has a variety of RPL programs available and can issue qualifications from level 1 certificates through to advanced diplomas. For more information on RPL, visit http://www.uq.edu.au/gatton/gvec or phone G-VEC on (07) 5460 1353.

Media: Erin Pearl, Gatton Campus Marketing Coordinator on 07 5460 1229 or e.pearl@uq.edu.au