They are the first to successfully complete their certificate two in meat processing (abattoir) traineeship.

Recipients Chad Monk, Bradley Hall, Adam Farrawell, John Nugent, James Adams, Shaun Bartel, Michael Dumas, Simon Bedwell and Kodie Cadd were congratulated by staff of both the abattoirs and TAFE and presented with graduation certificates in a small ceremony at the plant.

The course is completed over 15 months, this first group commencing studies in 2008.

It is now run on a continual basis with the induction of new courses linked to the plant’s labour requirements. Currently 52 employees are undertaking their certificate two studies.

North Coast Institute of TAFE head teacher of primary industries, Greg Stuart, said the program was an example of a true partnership between his institution and the abattoirs.

The training includes a three-day induction, during which trainees cover aspects of six core units of study including occupational health and safety, an overview of the meat industry, hygiene, quality assurance, communications and personal protective equipment.

All subsequent training and assessment occurs on the job with an employed supervisor overseeing the training.

Wingham Beef Exports’ training co-ordinator Narelle Atkins has been an integral part of the success of the program, her role including liaison, observation and coaching in the workplace and gathering information for assessment.

Each trainee has an individual training plan tailored to reflect their position and on-the-job tasks.

The studies ensure they not only learn national meat processing standards but also comply with regulatory requirements.

Graduates will also be given the opportunity to further their studies in the future by undertaking certificate three while qualifications in business management or specialist programs are also a possibility to set employees towards higher positions.