Training

Strengthening our industry’s workforce skills, knowledge and capability

The WSAA as the peak body for the Australian window shading and covering industry together with our training partner The Frontline Group have been strong advocates for the Certificate III training program for our industry known officially as MSF30919 Certificate III in Blinds, Awnings, Security Screens and Grilles.

We have advised members in previous editions that work is underway to review this key qualification and training program, and we are pleased to be able to update members on the significant progress that has been made by this important project being led by our industry.

Skills Insight, the Jobs and Skills Council for Furnishing, has partnered with Forest Works on the project now in its six month to update the national training standards for our industry. This initiative aims to ensure qualifications and skills align with modern workplace demands and support future industry growth in the Window Shade and Screens sectors.

To conduct this important work, The Frontline Group has been engaged by Forest Works to lead the industry consultation and develop the draft training product. Well known across the Window Screens and Shading industries, Frontline’s work involves seeking input from industry professionals to ensure the updated qualifications accurately reflect how work is performed today.

The project has focused on a comprehensive review and update of the Certificate III in Shading and Security Screens (formerly the Certificate III in Blinds, Awnings, Security Screens, and Grilles).

Key goals include:

• Revising outdated content and incorporating new technologies and trends.

• Updating the qualification and increasing flexibility to better reflect industry practice.

• Developing fit-for-purpose units for safety, product knowledge, installation, and manufacturing.

As part of this effort, the project has also resulted in the development of specific skill sets:

• Installer (security screen or shading screens), a crucial step towards aligning with industry’s proposed national occupational licensing system.

• Sales to promote technical knowledge for retailers along with sales and service skills.

• Manufacturing leadership to facilitate empowerment and build leadership capability of supervisors in manufacturing environments.

This project is an essential step toward making sure the national training standards remain flexible, relevant, and accurate for the entire window furnishing sector.

A key aspect of the Project undertaking this Review has been the leading contribution by individual businesses as members of the Project’s Technical Advisory Committee.  Highly experienced and informed in all aspects of our industry, this Committee of technical industry experts has ensured full detailed consideration and debate at a level of detail not seen in previous similar undertakings.

To stay informed about the project’s progress and future opportunities to provide feedback, members are encouraged to check out the official project page for updates and register: https://skillsinsight.com.au/project/window-furnishings-and-shade-sails/