Federation TAFE educator wins Australian vocational teacher of the year award
Federation TAFE Information Technology teacher, Dr Adam Bignold was crowned as Australia’s best vocational education and training (VET) teacher at the 2024 Australian Training Awards (ATAs).
The ATAs are the peak national awards showcasing best practice in the nation’s vocational education and training (VET) sector, and highlight outstanding achievement by apprentices, trainees, students, teachers, employers, registered training providers, and industry, promoting respect for skill-based careers and skills excellence.
Adam was one of 75 finalists from State and Territory training Awards invited to compete for 16 national awards and was congratulated on his win by The Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills and Training.
Nominated for revamping Federation’s Certificate IV in Cyber Security to better meet the needs of neurodiverse and mature age students, Adam’s innovative and flexible approach to teaching has increased student retention, engagement, and doubled the number of female students studying cybersecurity at Federation TAFE.
Adam was humbled to be announced as the winner.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Australian Teacher/Trainer of the Year Award. This recognition reflects my passion for breaking barriers to study in the vocational education and training (VET) sector, ensuring all learners have access to education, and equipping them with real-world skills that deliver immediate value to industry. Thank you to my students, my team, and industry partners for their support and collaboration."
Federation University Australia Pro Vice-Chancellor VET & University Pathways and Chief Executive TAFE, Darren Gray congratulated Adam on his win, “We are incredibly proud of Dr Adam Bignold for being named the Australian Training Awards VET Teacher of the Year. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Adam's dedication, innovation, and excellence in vocational education and training.
“Adam’s commitment to his students and his ability to make complex subjects engaging and accessible have made a significant impact on our community. Adam's achievement highlights the exceptional quality of education at Federation TAFE and our ongoing commitment to fostering talent and excellence in the VET sector.”
As VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Adam is invited to become a national ambassador for the VET sector, join the Australian VET Alumni network, and receives an Australian Training Award trophy.
For more information on Federation TAFEs Certificate IV in Cyber Security visit: https://www.federation.edu.au/courses/dlbo-certificate-iv-in-cyber-security/.