The 2021/2022 Micro-Credentials was a non-accredited pilot program based on the knowledge components from units of competency from the National Water Training Package.
The three micro-credentials available were:
- Water Treatment Foundation Skills – an overview of the water treatment process, water quality risk, basic lab testing skills and basic chemical handling/safety
- Wastewater Treatment Foundation Skills – an overview of the wastewater treatment process, environmental risks, basic sampling and testing, basic chemical handling/safety
- Network Operations Foundation Skills – risk management, locating and protecting utilities, maintaining, and repairing network assets for water and wastewater, restoring a work site, installing trench support, or operating high pressure water jetting systems
qldwater had 150 learners enrol for the 2021/2022 micro-credentials courses.
There were four methods of delivery for the Micro-Credentials:
- Distance Learning Micro-Credential (including optional Virtual Classroom Tutorials)
Delivered by TAFE Queensland SkillsTech with learning materials emailed to learners.
- Self Paced Learning Micro-Credential
Delivered by Simmonds and Bristow with access to online materials for 90 days from confirmation of enrolment.
- Virtual Workshop Micro-Credential
Delivered by Simmonds and Bristow over two full days or four hours per day over 4 days to be negotiated with learners. Training will be scheduled once a minimum of 6 learners have enrolled in this micro-credential.
- Face to Face Workshop Micro-Credential
Delivered by Simmonds and Bristow over two full days. Training will be scheduled once a minimum of 6 learners have enrolled in this micro-credential.
The cost for each of the micro-credentials varied pending the delivery method. During the pilot program, the micro-credentials were subsidised through qldwater with funding from the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT).
Following the success of the pilot program, we successfully advocated for residual grant monies from DESBT to go towards a SCADA Micro Credential course developed and delivered by Murray Thompson. A total of 69 staff from 17 service providers completed the course in 2022, with great feedback from participants.
qldwater will be monitoring grants and other potential funding opportunities in this financial year. When funding becomes available qldwater will communicate with its members.
Simmonds & Bristow offer a variety of their own short courses and workshops.