The unit of competency ACMGEN304 Promote Positive Wellbeing in Self and Others in Animal Care Workplaces supports crucial skills for animal care workers. However, trainers report challenges around the delivery of the unit, particularly when learners’ emotional past experiences surface in the classroom.
Skills Insight recently hosted a discussion for trainers to share their thoughts and experiences on the barriers, challenges or opportunities they have encountered in the delivery of this unit. It was attended by over 80 people.
The session was moderated by Paula Porter who is an animal technology lecturer, has a diploma in positive psychology and was one of the subject matter experts involved in the development of the unit.
As part of our role as a JSC, we collaborate with all stakeholders to identify workforce challenges and opportunities, including issues related to training delivery.
The discussion acknowledged a strong need to prepare learners for real-world challenges without causing undue distress. In order to achieve this, trainers need appropriate skills in mental health and clear boundaries and frameworks for delivery.
The discussion explored several ideas to improve unit delivery:
- use of case studies
- simulated workplace training
- defined unit boundaries, with a focus on resilience and well-being strategies
- development of delivery tools and resources
- development of an experienced pool of trainers for the unit
- involving external speakers and industry professionals to provide additional insights and support.
The group also raised points about improvements that could be made to the unit itself.
These insights will help inform the development of workforce planning strategies and advice that we can share with governments and other relevant organisations for further investigation into potential solutions.
A recording of the session is available to view below. We welcome input on any of the issues discussed to further inform our workforce planning. Contact Julie Stratford at [email protected]