Every year many students graduate from courses delivered by Batchelor Institute within correctional facilities.

More than 30 students were awarded certificates during a recent graduation ceremony held at the Darwin Correctional Centre in late October, and over 80 other achievements were also recognised. Meanwhile, more than 20 students graduated during a ceremony at the Alice Springs Correctional Centre in early November, with numerous other achievements recognised as well. Some students graduated with more than one qualification.

Batchelor Institute typically holds two ceremonies in Darwin and two in Alice Springs each year, marking the ongoing Vocational Education and Training programs delivered through a partnership agreement with Northern Territory Correctional Services.

At the most recent ceremonies, students graduated from Batchelor Institute’s formal training in areas such as access to vocational pathways, visual arts, furnishing, supply chain operations, and workplace skills. Other areas of achievement included first aid and CPR, as well as forklift licences and White Cards. A number of students were recognised for their achievements in food safety, food handling, and coffee making in collaboration with Karen Sheldon Catering, while several students also completed streetwise first aid in conjunction with the Australian Red Cross.

Completing these courses can lead to potential opportunities in positions such as administration officers, art studio trainees, artists, cabinetmaker trainees, store persons, warehouse workers, and more.

The Certificate II in Workplace Skills (BSB20120), for example, which is offered both in Darwin and Alice Springs, is suited to individuals aiming for entry-level roles related to business services. Students gain skills in procedural, clerical, administrative, and operational tasks. The certificate can also offer a pathway into further Vocational Education and Training qualifications.

Graduates cited the combination of classroom activities and independent learning as a benefit of the course, and mentioned communication and technology among the skills gained through their studies.

At both ceremonies, graduands were addressed by the Northern Territory Correctional Services Deputy Commissioner, Mr David Thompson, as well as Batchelor Institute CEO Mr Leon Yeatman. Following the conferral of awards, the graduates also enjoyed addresses from student representatives.

Both women and men graduates expressed their appreciation of the opportunity to complete training that may support them in preparation for release and subsequently seeking employment.

Batchelor Institute is proud to support students to choose meaningful future pathways in potential employment and further study.