in focus 26 april 2010

ACPET Board focused on members

In a week where COAG joined the chorus of government action aimed at restoring confidence in Australia’s international education industry by agreeing to a “suite of practical actions” summarized in our e-circular 21 (21/4), the ACPET National Board met in Melbourne.

Robust discussion over two days was focused on activities to support members and holding government to account for the impact that uncoordinated action and ill-considered reactionary policy continues to have on the operation of members with a commitment to quality student outcomes and sustainable business practices.

After reaching agreement on specific objectives for the coming 12 months, members can expect a strong and vigorous campaign in the lead up to this year’s Federal and Victorian elections. The campaign will demand:

• a robust and competitive tertiary education and training sector where students and employers can exercise genuine choice in identifying the institution that will best meet their needs
• an environment where all students have the opportunity to access government support for their education irrespective of their choice of institution
• the creation of an effective regulatory regime that delivers quality outcomes for students but does not undermine the competitiveness of private sector institutions
• promoting the value and quality of outcomes delivered by private sector institutions

A recent ACPET survey of over 10,000 international students studying in private institutions showed that 86% of students were satisfied or very satisfied with all aspects of their college experience and that 77% of students said they would encourage others students thinking of studying in Australia to apply.

In Higher Education, results from the 2008 Graduate Destinations Survey show that the perceptions of graduates in relation to skill acquisition, teaching and overall satisfaction in was on average more positive than was the case recorded among graduates of universities.

The vast majority of students and enterprises who partner with private institutions are being well served in achieving their educational objectives, these are the facts and they are supported by the research. It is time for government to focus its substantial resources on those institutions where there is evidence of poor practice and allow those with a demonstrated track record of performance to get on with the job of delivering for their clients.

Quality Through Diversity is the theme for this year’s ACPET National Conference in Melbourne. The conference will showcase the best of Australia’s private education and training. The program will focus on informing and supporting members as you lead, manage and grow your business. I encourage you to visit the conference website  and register early to assure your place.

Please do not hesitate to contact me (click to email Andrew [dot] Smith [at] acpet [dot] edu [dot] au (Andrew Smith)) to discuss any of the above or to provide your ideas and input into the ongoing development of the Council.

Andrew Smith
Chief Executive Officer
26 April 2010