A group of TAFE NSW Northern Beaches building students have gone global, travelling to British Columbia as part of the Australian Government’s Endeavour Leadership Program (ELP).

The ELP is an initiative of the Australian Government to promote research and professional development with Australia's priority partner countries. The program provided opportunities for established and emerging leaders to undertake a global education experience within their study, research or professional field.

TAFE NSW Carpentry and Joinery Head Teacher, Dwane Stockini said the tour was an amazing opportunity for TAFE NSW students to visit and learn about how to build energy efficient, environment friendly, healthy and safe homes from some of Canada’s finest builders.

“Every day presented new challenges to the students understanding of building for our future. They learnt about respecting building materials and the importance of sustainability in construction from the Lil’wat and Squamish First Nations people.” said Mr Stockini.

Throughout the trip the students visited a range of businesses, institutes and construction sites, including the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), where they learnt about High Performance Building and Zero Energy Construction from one of Canada’s leading trainers in this field, Alexandre Hebert.

“The impact this opportunity has had on these guys is tremendous. It’s very encouraging to know that this young team of men from TAFE NSW, our future builders, are moving in such a positive way to protect our environment at the same time as building high performing, ultra-low energy homes.” said Mr Stokini.

Jacob Heckenberg who is studying a Certificate IV in Building and Construction at TAFE NSW Northern Beaches said the study tour to Canada was an amazing experience.

“The trip showed how progressive countries are when it comes to building performance. I believe passive design is the next step in building so it was great to experience it first hand from some of the world’s best.

“Seeing and understanding how passive design works from this trip, will really give me a competitive edge in the industry.” said Mr Heckenberg.

Studying with TAFE NSW can help students get the practical skills they need to succeed. To enquire now for Semester one, 2020 visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 for more information.

Media contact: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, alice.dalley1@tafensw.edu.au, mobile 0402 528 210.