FloristryIn 1960 Sydney Institute established a Floristry course. The course was fairly straightforward…

The aim of the course will be to train students in the various sections of commercial floristry. Instruction requiring attendance for one evening of 3 hours per week will be over a period of 2 years.

In 2011 the current course description is far more complex. It includes:

S Producing a range of floral products S Operating the equipment that is found in

the florist shop S Caring for the floristry stock and

merchandise S Preparing and display of floristry stock S Assembling and preparing floristry products S Creating forestry designs using hand tied

and wiring techniques and a base medium

S Providing services to the wide range of customers that buy floristry produces.

Current Head Teacher, Christina Lewis co-ordinated a parade and show of floral costumes and body decoration in 2010 which had the audience mesmerised. For many years she has also co-ordinated the decoration of the industry ball venue where students from Sydney Institute and Hunter Institute work as a team to transform the venue into a floral masterpiece.

Floristry has four scholarships valued at $2,500 to enable students to continue their study to Certificate IV in Floristry. Winners are decided by way of a competition held at the Flower Markets at Flemington each year and judged by a panel of four industry specialists. Winners are announced at the annual industry ball where up to 450 people attend.

The Ultimate Florist on Harris Street has become a regular attraction and provides an excellent teaching venue. The students learn the stresses of preparing for restaurant and business venues on a daily basis. They achieve extraordinary results decorating venues, functions and restaurants in a real world environment.

Photo: Students showcase their creativity at graduation parades

Graduate Honour Roll, Architecture

Lucien Henry, Architect (1850-1896)An early instructor in art and applied arts, at Sydney Technical College, was the exiled Frenchman Lucien Henry, who had received a death sentence during the Paris Commune in 1871. His sentence was commuted to seven years exile in New Caledonia, after which he made his way to Sydney, arriving in 1879. Henry had trained at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, and brought many elements of the curriculum of this institution to Sydney Technical College, where he taught freehand drawing, design and modelling.

He championed the use of Australian flora and fauna in the design and architecture of Sydney’s buildings in the late 19th century.

Florence Mary Taylor, Architect (1879-1969)First female architect, structural engineer and civil engineer. She was editor and publisher of the journal Building. She also designed many houses in NSW.

Glenn Murcutt, ArchitectPritzer Prize Recipient (International award given for outstanding achievements to architecture). Australian Institute of Architects multiple award winner. Designer of many houses which have been recognised for their sensitive design in relation to site and landscape.

Bruce Rickard, Architect (1929-2010)Highly esteemed architect, landscape designer and educator who created over 80 houses mainly in NSW. Australian Institute of Architects multiple award winner.

Robert Woodward, Architect (1923-2010)An architect who received wide recognition for his innovative fountain designs, including the El Alamein Memorial Fountain in Kings Cross and the fountain for the High Court of Australia, Canberra.

Alfred Spain, Architect (1868-1954)Spain studied at Sydney Technical College and qualified in 1890. He formed a partnership with Cosh in 1904, Spain & Cosh, a practice that became highly respected in the mid-20th century. They designed office blocks, flats, hotels, fire stations and houses. Spain and Cosh designed the former Marcus Clark building, 831 George St in 1910-24 and Building W at Ultimo College, Sydney Institute.

John Allen and Russel Jack, ArchitectsJohn Allen formed a partnership with Russel Jack in 1956 after meeting at Sydney Technical College. They formed Allen Jack + Cottier in 1964 and it became a highly successful architectural practice that has made a major contribution to Australian architecture including the design of major apartment complexes from the 1980s.

ArchitectureArchitecture was one of the 20 founding Sydney Technical College courses in 1891 at the Ultimo campus. At that time a diploma course required four years of part-time study with classes all held in the evening. In 1909 the Department of Architecture gave instruction in Architectural Drawing, Building Construction, Carpentry, Joinery, and Bricklaying.

James Nangle, Lecturer-in-charge of the Architecture department in 1909 reported:

…for even in the case of the ordinary tradesman a knowledge of the style of architecture of the building at which he is engaged will enable him to exercise more interest in the shaping of the details. He will consequently be of real assistance to the architect whose designs he is engaged in executing, and a better quality of work generally is likely to be the result...

and

In the drawing office... all the drawing is done to scale from sketches on blackboards in front of the class. The students are thus forced to set plans, sections and elevations up in a proper way.

In the 1920s the growth of the Department of Architecture and Building Trades (the name changed from Architecture in 1915) was a success story. Enrolments totalled 372 in 1920 and 809 in 1929. Most spectacular was the growth in enrolments in the Architecture diploma course from 10 to 124 (an increase of 1,140%!). Sydney Institute’s Architecture department spawned degree courses at both The University of NSW in the 1950s and the University of Technology, Sydney in 1965.

Today’s teaching staff are highly qualified and experienced, working closely with the architectural profession throughout Australia.

Sydney Institute’s Architecture section hosts both an Archicad users group and Revit users group, important links with the profession and critical for keeping up to date with the latest software developments.

Architecture promotes the recognition of student achievements and has developed a student international exchange program with Denmark which gives students amazing opportunities to expand their horizons.

Sydney Institute’s Architecture department is working towards establishing an Associate Degree in Architectural Technology (Sustainability) to meet the demands of government, students and industry for higher level qualifications.

A specialised course in AutomotiveSydney Institute runs a range of specialised programs to help ensure that all members of the community can access education.

In 1990, a course in the Vehicle Trades area was established to suit the needs of students with an intellectual disability. Car detailing, because of its high percentage of systematic practical skills, was identified as providing an opportunity that could suit the learning styles of the students without losing the core integrity of the job requirements.

The course was functional and meaningful with students working on real cars and learning to make decisions, take risks and follow the same rules and regulations as everyone else in an adult industrial environment. They were expected (with direction and support) to demonstrate the same skills as their peers in the trade workshop.

The course was expanded to include the Panel Beating and Vehicle Trades in 1991, as students showed interest in these areas and it was felt that the courses could lead to apprenticeships.The course has always adapted to the changing curriculum, industry demands and the needs of the individual students. Over the years, various industry bodies and major employers such as the NRMA have come on board to support the project.

The students come from a range of socio-economic backgrounds and cultures - school leavers, youth at risk and adults with multiple disabilities have all benefited from the course. Approximately 1,000 students have completed their studies and many have graduated with their trade certificate going on to gain employment.

The Vehicle Trades Disability Access course has been successful due to the cooperation and expertise between the Disabilities Unit and all the teachers and industry representatives involved. The course aims to help students gain skills so they can apply for positions in panelbeating, vehicle painting, detailing, spare parts and at car wreckers.

From our students

Monique BryceBeauty Therapy graduate

When did you begin and end your studies in Beauty Therapy at Ultimo?I began my studies in 2008 and started with Make-Up Services, I had fabulous teachers, I learnt so much from them, their knowledge was outstanding and they have fantastic retail and selling skills.

I then went on to complete Beauty Services, where I had the pleasure of learning from some really knowledgeable and fun teachers. I then looked for an apprenticeship in 2009, and have continued my studies so I have now commenced the Diploma in Beauty Therapy.

What was memorable (or not!) during your studies?The teachers were fantastic, they always went above and beyond the call of duty and helped as much as possible. The opportunity to share experiences each week with fellow students and debrief about events that had happened at the salon was really helpful.

The teachers who taught you during your studies, are there any qualities/style that you remember particularly?They had in-depth insights and gave us the information we needed to learn. Their personal experiences were always shared, which helped us to relate to the industry. Repetition and continuous work sheets/activities to cement the information and the practical skills we were learning. Teachers that could make the classroom more fun and able to have a laugh, always made the lessons good.

BeautyBeauty Culture, now known as Beauty Therapy, was developed as an apprentice trade by the Department of Industrial Relations and Employment at the end of 1979.

In the second semester of 1984 a Beauty Culture trade course began with 50 apprentices participating in this pilot course. By 1985, there were over 100 apprentices and other industry practitioners undertaking trade and post-trade training at the Ultimo campus. Sydney Institute was the first college in NSW to introduce this course.

In 1987 the School of Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy was created. New premises were especially constructed to meet the needs of Beauty Therapy which set the standard for other colleges offering Beauty Therapy. 1999 was the first year that training packages were offered and accredited beauty qualifications became available. A commercial course is now also taught at Petersham and Sutherland Colleges.

The Petersham campus started its first Beauty course in 1988 with manicure and eyebrow shaping. This was followed with artificial nails (one of the initiatives to get women into the workforce). Then gradually other skills like makeup, eyelash tinting and waxing were introduced. In 2007 Petersham employed their first full-time Beauty teacher.

The Petersham College offers a Certificate II in Nail Technology and Retail Makeup and Skin Care course and a Certificate III course is available to work in a salon or retail outlet in the beauty industry. The College also offers a Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy course for students to gain skills and knowledge to enter the industry as a beauty therapist.

In 2001 Sydney Institute developed the first TAFE Diploma of Beauty Therapy. In 2004 it opened the first commercial training centre in TAFE NSW with international students beginning Beauty Therapy training.

Over 1,000 students have graduated from Beauty Therapy and Sydney Institute now employs its third generation of graduates as teachers. Three graduates have obtained the NSW State Medal award and an international student has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence for Diploma of Beauty Therapy.

Photo: Students showcase their creativity at graduation parades

BookbindingThe printed word is the life blood of all learning. Printing and its associated trades have been at Sydney Institute for 120 years. Early classes in Bookbinding were conducted at night by tradesmen on a casual basis at Ultimo College.

With the advent of day release for apprentices in the 1960’s, the first permanent full-time teaching structure was set up by Allan Stratton from the Sydney Government Printing Office. Apprenticeship classes increased with the addition of three teaching staff, also from the Sydney Government Printing Office. The NSW government constructed a state-of-the-art Graphic Arts College building on the corner of Jones and Thomas Streets which opened in 1963 for the purpose of teaching all the trades within the printing industry.

New equipment was needed with the introduction of more mechanical influences within the binding industry. Purchases were made for computerised guillotines, paper folding machines, wire stitching, and an adhesive application machine for magazine and booklet production.

Computerisation and changes in the communication and media sources have had a profound effect on the printing industry. So much so that areas of the Graphic Arts industry have disappeared while other completely new ones have been created.

TAFE students are still taught the fundamentals of fine binding right through to modern print finishing technology.

A demand for craft binding techniques has led to successful night classes being held for the practice of teaching fine craft book binding and book restoration.

Industry has been a big factor in assisting with the supply of equipment. Notably Heidelberg, Muller Martini, CPI and Currie & Co. Major printing companies have also been contributors of paper and materials for TAFE teaching needs. Offset Alpine, Hannanprint, Blue Star, PMP, Ligare and others have assisted with their continued support.

There have been a number of students who have progressed in the field as managers or have started their own businesses.

From our graduatesBusiness at Sydney Institute uses the latest teaching techniques to help students understand the demands and pressures of the modern world. Our students run a virtual enterprise, an online fictional company, one that competes with other student groups from across the world.

Christian Watters, student 2011“The Virtual Enterprise has helped me adopt a better attitude towards employability in an office. The dress code and the exercises that we follow help prepare us to expand our view and aspire for a career. The supervisor is always willing to show us how to perform these new and exciting tasks in the virtual office. It is in the virtual office that we use all the skills that we have gained from other classes”.

Thanh Diem Doan, student 2010 “I completed Certificate III in Business Administration at Ultimo TAFE one year ago and I was very happy with the course. The teachers were very friendly and supportive. My favourite was the Virtual Enterprise. I loved this as it applied what I learned in other classes in a practical way and gave me a clear understanding of how an office works. As a migrant who had not worked in Australia before, this was very helpful for me. I feel that I am well prepared and I am confident in my skills to work in an office. Thank you so much for providing such a good practical environment”.

James Logue, student 2010“The Virtual Enterprise was a fantastic experience and very enjoyable. The atmosphere created by the facilitators and other students made it feel like a real working experience. We were set a dress code which also helped us stay focused and motivated”.

James Bain, student 2009“The Virtual Enterprise, gave a good insight into what an actual office environment would be like. There were heaps of tasks, which at the time were a bit of a challenge to complete, but with the help of my mentor, I was able to complete them successfully. She provided a structured and calm environment where we could go off and do our tasks individually and return to her every now and then to ensure we were heading in the right direction. Two things I liked about working in the Virtual Enterprise were that it felt like an actual office environment and we had a very helpful teacher”.

Isabel Anastasiadis, student 2008“I’ve been temping at the Aboriginal Trust Fund Repayment Scheme since early August. I’m really enjoying it here and learning so much. I’m using all the skills I learnt at TAFE which is a fantastic feeling. I was even asked to take minutes at a Panel Meeting! I am using a lot of mail merge, document design, spreadsheets - basically I am confident with all the tasks because of what I learnt at TAFE!”

Graduate Honour Roll, Design

Dianne D’AlessandroDianne has thrived in the interior design industry since starting out almost a decade ago. A graduate of Design Centre Enmore with an Advanced Diploma of Interior Design in 2002, Dianne is currently a senior interior designer at the prominent design agency Hassell. Dianne’s passion for design have led to receiving several awards including the2010 IDEA winner of commercial under 1000 sqm for Leo Burnett, 2005 Australia Interior Designer Awards for Corporate Interior Design and for Environmentally Sustainable Design, as well as the Royal Australian Institute of Architects NSW Awards Interior Architecture Award in 2005 and 2006.

Benja HarneyBenja has been dedicated to engineering high-end pop-up books and crisp paper constructions professionally since his graduation from Enmore Design Centre in 2005. With an Advanced Diploma of Graphic Design under his belt, Benja works as a Paper Engineer, running his own business, Paperform. Benja has worked with numerous prestigious clients, his career highlights including the Christmas windows for Hermès, bespoke pop-up books for French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet, packaging for Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, The Sydney Opera House Open Day poster and most recently The Sydney Mardi Gras poster.

Liesl HazeltonThis Enmore College graduate of an Advanced Diploma of Jewellery & Object Design is a rising star in her field. Liesl was awarded the Design NSW Travelling Scholarship in 2009 – an $18,000 grant to aid budding NSW designers develop overseas. This prestigious award was a testament to Liesl’s skill and thriving career. Since then, Liesl has travelled the world –studying, creating and showcasing her talent.

Madeline LesterA member of the TAFE NSW’s Higher Education Academic Board, Madeline Lester, is a graduate of the Interior design Diploma at Sydney Institutes Randwick College in the late 1960’s. Valued for her broad industry experience and advocacy for design, Madeline is a former President of International Federation of Interior Architects and Designers, the International body that represents Interior Designers globally. This was a significant role and the first time it has been held by an Australian. Madeline was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her services to the profession of interior design as a practitioner and educator.

Craig RuddyA Sydney Institute graphic design graduate Craig Ruddy, was the winner of the 2004 Archibald Prize for his portrait of Aboriginal actor, David Gulpilil.

Inga SvendsenSuccessful Sydney artist Inga added to her university education with a Diploma in Ceramics at Gymea College in 2007 and an Advanced Diploma in Ceramics in 2009. Widely recognised in her field, Inga has taken part in numerous exhibitions across Australia and received many awards, including several TAFE Awards for Excellence and the Fule Prize at the ICMEA 2010 Emerging Artists Competition in China.

Photo: Craig Ruddy’s portrait of of Aboriginal actor David Gulpilil, that won the 2004 Archibald Prize.

DesignDesign has evolved from the earliest beginnings of Sydney Institute when Art was one of the inaugural departments. At that time Art Department subjects were divided into drawing, painting and modeling with courses running classes during the day for women and evening classes for men.

The Syllabus of the Department of Art, 1904, noted...

the trained teacher, whose aim is to develop in the students under their care self-reliance, individuality and originality; to assist those who desire to make a knowledge of Art a part of their general education; also to give facilities for the training of persons who intent to adopt Art as a profession, or to include it in their general qualifications as Teachers in public, elementary, or other schools.

In the 1920 courses relating to Design and Art were based at East Sydney Technical College, at the old Darlinghurst Goal. Some of the courses taught there were a forerunner to the Design Centre Enmore.

In 1950 the Design and Crafts, Diploma Course is described in the Department of Art under Diploma courses in Art, Technical Education Handbook. Courses taught included Interior Design Decoration, Silver-smithing and Jewellery…

This course provides facilities for those wishing to become professional designers and craftsmen, and for those who wish to become teachers of design and crafts... By lectures, demonstrations and practical application students of this course are given a working knowledge of the general principles of design and colour in relation to various materials and methods of production.

A significant step towards a formal department of design was made when the Society of Interior Designers of Australia (SIDA) was founded in 1951. In the mid-sixties, the society approached the Department of Technical and Further Education (TAFE), putting forward a proposal for the creation of a Diploma course in Interior Design for aspiring designers.

After contributing on the Course Formation Committee, executive members saw their efforts give rise to the course being commenced at Sydney Institute, Randwick College. This course also led indirectly to others being set up in other parts of Australia thus realising the aims of the Society in the area of education.

Now at the Design Centre Enmore, each year up to 800 new students from all over Australia and the world come to study. The Design Centre possess a thriving community of aspiring designers working in a highly-creative and productive environment.

The Design Centre Enmore is Sydney Institute’s creative hub, home to many of the best-known design courses in Australia. Located in Sydney’s vibrant inner-west, the Design Centre Enmore has developed a reputation for producing some of Australia’s most talented designers.

Design is also taught at St George’s College’s School of Fashion, Fine Arts & Graphic Design where students learn in a large, friendly community-focused campus. Sydney Institute’s Eora College specialises in a range of design courses and is a vibrant centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

In 2011 Sydney Institute launched its first ever degree program in Interior Design which is just the first of a number of industry areas Sydney Institute hopes to offer degree programs in within the future. These include:

S Bachelor of Design (Jewellery and Object Design)

S Bachelor of 3D Art and Animation S Bachelor of Applied Finance

(Financial Planning)

Photo: Students showcase their creativity at graduation parades

Aboriginal StudiesEora College is a vibrant, professional, community focused education centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

From short courses to Diplomas the College provides training programs in visual arts, music, music recording and sound, screen (TV and film), theatre and basic literacy and numeracy.

Eora graduates have built successful careers in television production, stage management, TV and stage performance, poetry, playwriting, animation and rock music with artists represented in numerous public and private collections.

In July 1984, the Eora Centre in Regent Street, Redfern was founded by Robert (Bob) Merritt, an Aboriginal playwright, director and screenwriter. He founded the Eora Centre as an Aboriginal alternative to NIDA and the Australian Film and Television School. Aboriginal people prominent in the arts joined the staff. They included the artist Gordon Syron and actors Justine Saunders, Bob Maza and Athol Compton. A number of Eora students were in the cast of Robert Merritt’s film ‘Short changed’ (1985) which was directed by George Ogilvie.

From mid 1989 until early 1993, Petersham College was responsible for the administration of Eora. An important initiative at Petersham was the Special Pre-Apprenticeship Electrical Trades course for Aboriginal students which began in 1986. It is widely recognised as a success by participating students and teaching staff with the majority of students gaining apprenticeships after completing the course.

The Aboriginal Education Unit also introduced off-campus courses which were taught by Petersham staff during the 1980s. Examples of these courses are Business and Administration Club Management held at the Black Theatre, Redfern and Office Skills in the Public Sector held at Yarra Bay House at La Perouse. In 1985, the Aboriginal Teacher Training Preparatory Program was introduced. Seven Aboriginal teacher trainees joined a six month program at Petersham which was designed to train full-time TAFE teachers. All seven qualified and were employed at Petersham College in the hospitality and secretarial studies teaching sections.

Aboriginal programs continue to operate at Petersham. In 2005, in partnership with Energy Australia, an indigenous pre-apprenticeship initiative began with the aim of developing the skills of participating student so they could gain employment with the company.

In 1993, Eora staff and students moved into the Centre’s new accommodation in Abercrombie Street, Redfern. Students study music, dance, printmaking, photographic and theatre and Eora showcases students’ work in performances and exhibitions.

Photo: Students showcase their creativity at graduation parades

HairdressingHairdressing courses started at Ultimo with the introduction of a men’s hairdressing course in 1951 followed by a women’s course in 1953. Until 1954 students studied Hairdressing through the Hairdressers Union at the Sydney Institute of Technology.

It was not until 1987 that the men’s and women’s courses were combined as a certificate course. The courses achieve high quality hairdressing and beauty training by highly qualified, professional and experienced teachers.

Until 2000 hairdressing qualifications had been available through an apprentice system only. In 2000 qualifications could be achieved without an apprenticeship.

Similar hairdressing courses were established at Petersham and Sutherland Colleges in 1983 and 1979 respectively. Sydney Institute offers studies in hairdressing, beauty therapy, makeup services and nail technology across qualifications ranging from Certificate II to Diploma. With open plan study areas, purpose built beauty sections, computer facilities and training salons.

The next step is to open a commercial salon on George Street to give students the chance to develop their skills in a real salon situation.

Photo: Students showcase their creativity at graduation parades

HospitalityIn the early 1900’s, the forerunner to Hospitality was the Domestic Economy Department that taught the aspects of the daily life required of a woman running a household or institution.

Miss A.M. Monro, Teacher-in-Charge, described the course as follows:

The first section embraces instruction in elementary physiology, value of foods and their nourishing constituents, their adulteration, the effect of heat and the object of cooking; dietary; general principles of cookery. Housework in all its branches; housekeeping and menu arrangement.

She went on to describe other areas:

laundry work… the preparation and care of laundry; practice in washing and sorting white clothes, flannels, blankets, coloured clothes, silks and laces, making of boiled starch, ironing of articles ‘boiled starch’ raw starching and ironing shirts and collars, polishing of fronts, curling of collars; practice in the higher branches of ironing as, goffering and crimping.

plain cookery... includes instruction in scullery work, the management of stoves, of the kitchen , and of the pantry; Rules for roasting, baking, boiling, braising, frying, soup-making, vegetable cookery, pastry and cake making, puddings, sauces (Sweet and savoury), cold-meat cookery, breakfast cookery, salad making and invalid cookery.

advanced cookery required... Preparation and service of dishes in the higher branches of cookery, such as Hors d’OEuvres, Soups, Stocks, Consumees, Purees; Dressing fish and Fish entrees; Entrees; game and Poultry: trussing, boning, larding and cooking of poultry; entremets, sweet and savoury; Sweets, soufflés, omlettes, jellies, creams; Pastry, puff pastry; Dressed Vegetables and Salads, Supper dishes and savouries; Garnishes, Farces etc., Fancy cakes, large cakes and icing.

Miss Munro noted:

…. A number of students holding these full certificates have taken up this work privately, teaching and lecturing in many Ladies’ Colleges, Nursing Homes, Charitable Institutions and Girls’ Clubs. Others are following this branch practically, taking engagements for the preparation of Dinners, Suppers, Luncheons etc., and in many cases finding lucrative employment.

Now in 2011 Sydney Institute has forged an outstanding reputation in hospitality training. The course has evolved over time and today it is directed to the development of careers for students entering the world of restaurants, hotels and behind the scenes in the kitchens and bakeries throughout the world.

The courses are developed in consultation with the hospitality industry and Sydney Institute takes pride in its industry partnerships. The following course descriptions indicate the extraordinary range of courses and career paths that students now take.

S Accommodation (front office or housekeeping supervisor, cashier, receptionist, concierge, laundry or room attendant, porter/butler)

S Baking (baker, tradesperson, bakery manager, bakery owner/operator)

S Cookery (head chef, chef de partie, cook, kitchen assistant)

S Event management (event coordinator, conference organiser, meetings manager, event manager)

S Food and beverage (restaurant supervisor, catering or gaming supervisor, waiter, bar person, gaming machine operative, barista)

S Hospitality management (hospitality operations manager, food and beverages manager, restaurant owner, café owner, hotel owner, motel owner, executive chef)

S Patisserie (chef, cook or supervisor).

Sydney Institute offers students a range of Hospitality qualifications from certificate to degree level. Students can study as part of a hospitality apprenticeship or traineeship program. The bachelor degree pathway is offered in partnership with the University of Ballarat but a range of short courses is also offered.

Photo: Students showcase their creativity at graduation parades

Painting and DecoratingPainting and Decorating courses were first established for apprentices at Sydney Institute, before WWI. Many aspects of the traditional and practical skills of the Painting and Decorating courses remain the same today with wallpapering, marbling, graining still being taught.

After WWII a new Painting and Decorating course was established for war veterans who were discharged from service. This program was called a repatriation program (RVTS) and aimed to get servicemen/women back into the work force.

Painting and Decorating at Ultimo was the headquarters for NSW and teachers from each college came to Ultimo to mark and assess exams papers. The course consisted of Theory, Craft Science, Trade Calculations, Drawing and Practical.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s the five year apprenticeships were changed to four years. This gave more prospective apprentices an incentive to get into a trade due to critical shortages in apprentice training. The government legislated at the time that apprentices could go to college during the day with wages paid by the employer.

Around 1985 a new curriculum was developed for the Painting and Decorating Trade Certificate. There were big changes and delivery consisted of 27 modules. External exams ceased and progressive assessment and marking was introduced. Classes went from day release (one day per week to block release, four straight days per month (country students always attended block release).

Since about 1995, due to the demand from Industry, Group Training Companies and employers, day release and block release classes are still run. With demand from the construction industry, the curriculum for the Painting and Decorating Trade Certificate course was redeveloped. An important feature of this course was to link skilled laborers into a course called Certificate III in General Construction. This was to allow construction workers (mainly builders’ labourers) to be multiskilled in all aspects of the finishing trades that consisted of Painting and Decorating, Floor and Wall Tiling, Mortar Trades, Fibrous Plastering and Wall Board Fixing Trades and Carpentry.

In 1999 Certificate III in General Construction (Painting and Decorating) was developed due to demand from industry and the course was shortened to two and half years from the traditional three years. Industry wanted apprentices to spend more time on the job and less time studying.

In 2009 another Certificate III in General Construction (Painting and Decorating) was introduced. The main focus has been more flexible delivery, modules of competencies, fast tracking and recognition of prior learning and trade testing, which has been a feature of the courses since the early 1990s.

Advance Wallpapering, Marbling and Graining techniques have been popular and these techniques are still in vogue and taught at Certificate III level.

PlumbingIn 1909, the Sanitation Department taught Plumbing to approximately 400 students. The issue of sanitation was a critical one for the city, a city which was still being established and in great need of trained workers.

As noted by John L. Bruce, Lecturer-in-charge of Department it was a health issue, a matter of life and death:

… it is no exaggeration to say that the task before the professional staff of the Water and Sewerage Board and the College teachers of the new Sanitary Department was nothing less that the education of the great body of the architects, the master plumbers, and the journeymen and incidentally, the general public, in their various elements of modern sanitary work.

As for the teaching of the theory of the subject, that is the sanitary, hydraulic, and pneumatic principles underlying the proportioning and arrangement of the pipes and fittings, that was unknown, and was indeed sneered at, by the majority of those who prided themselves on being “practical men”.

The great result from the course was that of the regular and enormous decrease in the death-rate, which has followed the work.

While thankfully the city’s sanitation, is no longer in such a perilous state, plumbing at Sydney Institute continues to work closely with the building industry to train skilled technicians across a range of areas.

In 1982, Sydney Institute introduced a Fire Sprinkler Fitting course, the first of its kind. Students are able to learn in a lab that has operational valves sets, pumps and just about anything that the wet side of fire protection uses.

Along with wet fire sprinklers we soon will be able to teach dry area techniques as in gas fire suppression systems, the sort of equipment you might find in computer rooms and other sensitive areas. If you are in any building in NSW look up and it is almost certain that the fire systems have been installed, tested or maintained by a technician trained at Sydney Institute.

In consultation with the Fire Protection Association of Australia, courses at Randwick will soon be run for the reduction of emissions of ozone depleting and synthetic greenhouse gas fire extinguishing agents.

Sydney Institute caters for plumbing and fire protection trade apprentices and plumbers wishing to complete their qualifications so they can obtain a plumbers license. In the very near future new specialist labs in gasfitting, thermostatic mixing valve and backflow prevention will be open for students.

We have just opened our multi-million dollar, Sustainable Hydraulic Trade Centre to help student learn green building skills. In this centre we focus on hydraulic trades, including waste water treatment and reuse, evacuated tube water heating and rain water harvesting.

The Centre includes an environment management system (EMS) with a web presence that provides real time data for measurement of utilities consumption. This data is included in training delivery and is available for learning and research purposes for industry and the education sector.

Photo: Hydraulic Trade Centre at Randwick College

PrintingThe School of Graphic Arts was one of the original training schools set up when Sydney Technical College began.

The graphic reproduction area of a company used to consist of a camera operator, a scanner operator, a retoucher, a colour planner and a platemaker. All these skill sets used to be taught at Sydney Institute under the Printing and Lithography Department which comprised the courses Composing, Machining, Lithography and Photo Engraving. Work in these areas was highly skilled, highly specialized, critical and detailed. Graphic Reproduction was mainly concerned with Lithography. Composition was very much a part of Letterpress with raised type being made from firstly monotype and then linotype machines with hot metal to type.

J.V. Barker, Teacher of Composing noted in 1909 that:

Periodic visits are paid to the printing classes by the Printers Overseers’ Association and the Typographical Association, both together with the Machinists’ Union, have donated prizes for apprentices. The Government Printer who is an ardent supporter of the classes, has likewise favoured in this respect... A three-years student of the composing class has been appointed to be in charge of the printing department of a firm of wholesale druggists, while others have improved their standing considerably as craftsmen through their attendance at the College.

W.S. de Wilde Teacher-in-Charge of Machining described his students as follows.

Illustration work at the present time, obtained by photographic and mechanical means, requires infinite study and pains; and only those students who apply themselves very closely to their work may hope to win through to a position in the printing profession.

The students at the Sydney Technical College Printing (Press branch) are very enthusiastic in their work and have attained high places in British and Colonial competitions.

The plant installed in the Press branch consists of and up-to-date double royal stop-cylinder press; supplemented by an Art Phoenix platen press, a Commercial Phoenix platen and, an Arab platen, and an Albion hand-press... plus a perforator, cutter and wire stitcher.

Lithography was described by A. Andrew, Teacher of Lithography as:

The nature of the work done in Lithography class follows out, as far as possible, what an all-round journeyman would be called to perform in a first-class office in conjunction with a thorough theoretical training in all matters appertaining to lithography.

There have been many changes during the history of the Printing section but none more so than the overtaking of letterpress printing by lithographic printing as the dominant printing process and the eventual death of letterpress printing as a commercial printing process. This overtaking of letterpress printing happened during the late 1960s and through the 1970s and by 1980 letterpress was redundant in most print shops in Australia.

A purpose-built Graphic Arts building opened in 1963. It provided students and staff with the very latest facilities and technologies used by each specialist industry sectors at the time. They included Graphic Reproduction, Composition, Screen Printing and Binding.

The printing and graphic industries changed dramatically in the 1990s and the Institute and its staff adapted to this change. In 1991 Graphic Reproduction had its first room full of Apple Macintoshes. In the mid 1990s due to the impact of the changing technologies, mostly associated with graphic design and Apple computers, the sections of Composition and Graphic Reproduction merged to form Graphic Prepress.

Sydney Institute at Ultimo teaches expertise in text selection, digital capture, image editing, retouching, page makeup, colour management, image output and repurposing for all relevant media.

This industry is constantly changing. The Printing section has kept pace with industry by introducing specific digital pathways into the new training packages. We give our students the key skills and get them ready to embrace the constant technological changes that face them in the modern world of print and design.

Screen PrintingScreen Printing is an ancient craft but the trade itself is relatively young. At Sydney Institute the Screen Printing department grew out of the Signwriting section and moved into the School of Graphic Arts in 1968.

Hand skills such as stencil cutting, the use of gallery cameras and manual printing, were all part of a dual trade called Screen Printing/ Stencil Preparation.

All facets of the Screen Printing industry including point of sale, industrial and textile printing have undergone dramatic changes with the advent of the digital era. Sydney Institute in partnership with industry, continues to deliver a course which prepares students the modern world of communications.

This is evident with the amount of awards won at screen printing competitions around the world by Sydney Institute apprentices. The Screen Graphics Imaging Association of America and the Screen Graphics Imaging Association of Australia hold The Screen Printing Awards annually.

Since 2000 Sydney Institute’s Screen Printing department has entered very competitive international competitions and our students continue to win!

The partnerships formed with major industry suppliers include an agreement with DGS Mimaki who are supplying four large format digital printing units for apprentices to train on.

With support from the Screen Printing industry, we are producing qualified trades people to a skills level never before seen in the history of the section.

SignwritingThe Signwriting course began at Sydney Technical College Ultimo in 1919 directly after WWI to assist returned servicemen to gain employment.

Prior to that Signwriting apprentices were indentured to their employer for five years and trained on the job. These apprentices were taught at Sydney Technical College and in 1909, P. W. Johnson, Lecturer-in-charge described the course as follows:

The courses are so divided to enable each student to gain knowledge he most desires. A student engaged in signwriting wishes to learn decoration or illumination; a decorator, signwriting of graining ; and so on through the list – working at one branch of the trade during the day, studying and trying to perfect himself in another branch in the evening, an endeavour which, but for the facilities afforded by this Department, he could not accomplish, at all events, so effectively.

In 1946 after the WWII, the Commonwealth Returned Services Training Scheme was introduced to train returned servicemen for their return to society, Signwriting was one of the trades taught at Ultimo.

The Signwriting apprenticeship was five years in duration, indentured apprentices would attend college for one day and two nights per fortnight for four years, this was changed in 1961 and apprentices attended college one day per week for four years, then in the fifth year they would attend two nights per week doing the post trade/advanced course .

In 1974 all apprenticeships were reduced to a four year duration with apprentices attending college one day per week for three years. The fourth year was a post trade/advanced course, which required two nights attendance per week.

Prior to 1985 all work was hand done, using traditional techniques. In 1987 the Signwriting section bought its first computer sign cutting machine, then in 1993 put in their first dedicated sign cutting and designing room with computers networked to a vinyl cutter plotter. More advanced industrial sign software and computer upgrades have been added over the years.

In 1999 wide format Digital Printing was introduced, the first in NSW. This new technology was to keep up with the cutting edge technology now in use in the Signage industry. Other new aspects have been introduced such as Laser Sign Cutting, Routed Signs, Sign Fabrication, Digital Printed Signage, Vehicle Wrapping and Digital Vinyl Letter Cutting.

AutomotiveThe first classes in motor driving at Sydney Technical College started in 1907, marking the first contact between technical education and the motor car. It was a part-time one year course and included instruction on basic maintenance. Motor Construction was introduced in 1910 with enrolments growing from 74 to 181 two years later.

During WWI and the post war period, the College changed to meet the needs of the times and offered courses in road and rail carriage building. After WWI classes were developed as part of the Repatriation Training Scheme.

Motor Construction classes were held at Ultimo in the 1920s and were originally part of the Mechanical Engineering department, as often spare parts needed to be made by the mechanics themselves. With no recognised qualification for motor mechanics until 1936, the NRMA introduced a voluntary scheme in 1925.

During WWII, Sydney Technical College turned into a combined teaching facility, factory and army camp, providing training under the Commonwealth Defence Training Scheme. The Army sent squads of trainee mechanics to the College resulting in a significant increase in enrolments.

The 1950s saw the ‘technical college on wheels’ (units of three rail carriages) bringing personal practical automotive instruction to the more sparsely populated areas of NSW. Each teaching unit was outfitted with machinery and equipment. The School of Automotive Engineering was established in 1959 and saw the construction of a three storey automotive engineering building on the corner of Mary Ann and Wattle Streets.

In 1966 the teaching facility was at the forefront of technological advancement with the modification of a Ford Fairmont to reduce the possibility of driver and passenger deaths. Modifications included a collapsible steering column and a dual hydraulic braking system. The project partnered with industry and the car completed a 16,000km rally (Sydney to London) driven by Head Teacher D. Wait of the School of Vehicle Trades and B. Lawler, Head Teacher of Automotive Engineering.

In 1984, responding again to industry’s needs, the Automotive Parts Apprentice scheme was developed to provide students with opportunities to learn basic automotive mechanical knowledge, warehousing, sales and customer service skills.

In 1988 a course development centre for new technology in the Automotive Engineering trades was established for training in the computerised control systems of motor vehicles. Members of the motor repair vehicle industry donated $50,000 worth of new engines and transmissions to the centre.

The 21st century has seen a rapid growth in the automotive industry and the emergence of a new occupational category, “the technician”. The automotive campuses at Ultimo, Gymea and St George now provide training to specialist technicians in Light Vehicle Marine, Motorcycle and Outdoor Powered Equipment. This was combined with advanced subjects in Automotive Diagnostics/ Management.

In June 2010, the Federal Government’s Education Investment Fund (EIF) approved the funding of $16.858 million for Sydney Institute to transform the Transport and Technology Centre of Excellence at Ultimo College. The centre has been named AutoCel.

AutoCel illustrates the innovative technology and facilities Sydney Institute is installing in anticipation of a revolution in the automotive and transport industries. AutoCel will re-shape existing facilities at Ultimo College to research and develop technologies that will drive sustainable automotive and transport systems and provide the technical skills that the marketplace will require for the future.

Training at AutoCel will deliver higher level qualifications in compliance with Federal and State government priorities and will provide training in alternative fuels, hybrid vehicles, emissions reduction, fuel efficiency as well as demonstrate good practice in energy and water efficiency, waste management and recycling.

Sheep and WoolFrom the late 19th Century, the agricultural and manufacturing industrial centres of Pyrmont and Ultimo employed a large proportion of the local community. Woolclassing was one of the first courses to be run at Ultimo in 1891. By 1908 most woolclassing students worked for the large woolbroking firms in Ultimo.

Alfred Hawkeswotrth, Lecturer-in-charge, acted as an unofficial employment agent for those seeking employment in the country. He wrote:

The great popularity of this class... amongst men, especially the more ambitious sons of station-owners, managers, selectors, and farmers no doubt was one cause of its success. To this may be added the liberal course of practical instruction offered... consisting of sheep-classing and judging... practical instruction is given daily in wool from the most elementary to the more advanced stages, including wool-classing for the pastoralists and wool–sorting for the manufacturer and scourer. Consideration is also given weekly to types of wool, clean scoured yields, and spinning qualities for student qualifying as woolbuyers.

In 1910 the Sheep and Wool building was opened. Night classes were offered with its aim to offer instruction in various branches of the wool trade to:

those industrious young men who are not in a position to attend to day classes, but who were ambitious enough to gain positions offered yearly by many of the wool firms.

For many years all Woolclassing was run from Ultimo College and teachers undertook “circuit” delivery in large country towns, from Ultimo.

In the late 1970s Woolclassing teachers were appointed to TAFE Colleges around the state – Goulburn, Bathurst, Orange, Cooma, Wagga, Dubbo, Tamworth, Newcastle and Armidale. Woolclassing was now being delivered in the regions of peak wool production and sheep numbers. All country appointed teachers completed their teacher training at Ultimo, via “block release”. The Wool for Practical Classes were prepared at Ultimo College facilities in a building on the corner of Mountain and Kelly St Ultimo and sent by rail and truck around the state to the various Woolclassing delivery centres.

Woolclassing teachers delivered Sheep Husbandry and Wool Science to Year 8 - 10 students. A Board of Studies HSC course, Sheep Husbandry and Wool Technology was taught to students at Hurlstone Agricultural College, Glenfield and James Ruse Agricultural High School, Carlingford.

A number of Woolclassing teachers completed degrees at The University of New South Wales School of Wool and Pastoral Science. The course had its origins from Sydney Institute.

Woolclassing teachers and students from Ultimo College were heavily involved at the Royal Easter Show. Teachers acted as judges and students volunteered as Stewards for the Sheep and Woolclassing competitions for many years. In 1990 the Woolclassing courses ceased at Ultimo.

ConstructionIn 1891, when Sydney Institute first began at Ultimo, classes were offered in Building Construction, Plumbing, Carpentry, Joinery and Bricklaying. The practical and theoretical courses for Building were a major part of the teaching program at the College and the notes from the teachers indicate the comprehensive nature of their approach.

James Nangle, Lecturer-in-charge of Architecture department 1909, described the courses as follows (it is interesting to see that one of the few female teachers at the Institute, taught Wood-Carving):

Carpentry and Joinery... the course is sufficiently comprehensive to cover the details most completely of carpentry and joinery, and when supplementary to practical experience on a building, and in the builder’s workshop, should provide for the turning out of very capable tradesmen.

Bricklaying... comprises a course of practical and theoretical instruction covering three years… students working a room where they are taught to set out the work full size, and then to build portions of actual walls, arches with full-sized bricks.

Wood-Carving... controlled by Miss Bannister, comprises a course of three years’ instruction, including the preparation and execution of simple designs in the various styles of ornament in Classical, Romanesque, Gothic, Italian, French and English Renaissance.

Originally students were not required to be employed but this changed in 1915 with the establishment of the Department of Architecture and Building Trades. The Trades School provided training for industries vital to the effort in WWI and repatriation training for returned soldiers. By 1920 the Trades School offered classes in Mechanical Drawing, Carpentry, Fitting and

Machining and Plumbing.Sydney Technical College played a major role in the training of returned service personnel through the Repatriation Vocational Training Scheme after WWI and WWII. The scheme aimed to train skilled workers who could be absorbed into the industrial and manufacturing workforce. A large number of ex-servicemen took advantage of trades based training which included, bicycle construction, fitting and machining, carpentry and building depending on aptitude and level of disability. Ex-servicemen attended five days a week and were trained in the engineering and building trades.

By the 1950s Sydney Institute was offering a five year practical and theoretical Diploma Building course as described in the Technical Education Handbook of 1950:

This course is one involving five years of evening study. It provides opportunities for a sound theoretical training in the materials and principles of building construction and structural design. The course is most suitable for cadets in the service of master builders, and in its establishment their needs have been kept in view.

By 1980 the Building Department had changed to offer Certificate courses of four years, up to 11 hours weekly that provided:

...training for general foremen, works, supervisors, quantity and estimating clerks, and junior building executives. Daytime classes are offered in some subjects for students able to obtain release from employment.

Plumbing and allied trades courses were held at Randwick from 1954. In 1970 a new trades block provided teaching facilities for Applied Electricity, Fitting and Machining, Carpentry and Joinery, and Welding apprentices. Randwick College became TAFE’s state headquarters for training in plumbing, drainage and bricklaying. The current areas of study are Building and Construction, Wall and Floor Tiling and Plumbing.

Today the Building courses are run from the Randwick, Gymea, St George, Petersham and Ultimo campuses. The syllabus concentrates on such subjects as the traditional building, plumbing, construction and carpentry courses. However there is also the addition of the newer courses of mosaic tiling, bonded asbestos removal, asset maintenance, fire protection, occupational health and safety, rigging, roof plumbing, scaffolding, tiling, waterproofing and all trade licensing.

Teacher profile, Vehicle Painting

Kurt KoepplAir brush artist and Part Time Teacher, Vehicle Painting

Kurt teaches Commercial Airbrushing at Ultimo College, and a TVET airbrushing course for school students. Kurt is a practicing artist and retired graphic artist, having run his own graphic arts company for many years. The skills he learnt in design that have helped him in adapting his artistry to the automotive airbrush industry.

He is influenced in these works by the Swiss artist HR GIGER who is famous for creating the visual effects in the 1979 film, Aliens.

Kurt is a freehand artist however he uses stencils to demonstrate various techniques to the students to to gain a desired effect as you will see throughout the work on display. Kurt selects the images not only to appeal and motivate the students but also to demonstrate the skills he would like them to learn.

Some images can be very bold and powerful through the use of only one colour.

Kurts tools include pencil, felt pen, eraser, automotive paints, paintbrush, airbrush, stencils, frisket masking, mixed with confidence and a great deal of patience and enthusiasm.

BusinessSo much has changed since the early days of Business. In the early 1900s women studied typing and shorthand and the men studied bookkeeping, penmanship and correspondence in the Commercial department.

In 1909, just after the economic recession, Alfred Armstrong, Teacher of Bookkeeping reported:

Bookkeeping is the very key of our position, and the records of our Bankruptcy Courts show us how many fortunes have been wrecked, how many growing prospects blighted, through ignorance of this vital part of commercial knowledge...

James Bruce, Teacher of Class Penmanship and Correspondence noted in 1909:

There can be no doubt that a good, clear, business-like handwriting has given more young men and women a start in life than any other accomplishment. It is a qualification that speaks for itself...The teacher of this class has prepared an extensive series of exercises for the attainment of ease, speed, and clearness in business writing, and it is confidently claimed that with a reasonable amount of careful practice the desired result will be secured.

In 1934 students completed subjects such as English, Commercial Correspondence, Business Principles, Bookkeeping, Commercial Arithmetic, Typewriting, Shorthand, Salesmanship, Advertising, Machine Equipment, Accountancy, Auditing and Mercantile Law with enrolments peaking at 500 students.

In 1937 the Commercial Department started to accept female students. The women mainly studied Shorthand and Typing and the men Bookkeeping and Accountancy subjects.

By the late 20th century the demands of business had led to a very different approach to the subjects taught at Sydney Institute. The Technical Handbook of 1980 described the Management course as:

It is designed to assist the individual’s advancement to the position of manager of a profit centre in a small or medium sized corporation, or in the division or branch of a large scale organisation, by developing his or her ability... The emphasis throughout the course will be the... practical skills rather than theoretical knowledge.

In the 21st century new methods are being employed to teach students. For instance students at Sydney Institute learn how to run a business by operating one that competes in a global environment. The only difference is – it only exists online, it’s a virtual business.

It is a simulated business that students organise and run as a hands-on way of learning about business practices and procedures. It provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in business. Whilst the products and money are virtual, everything else is real. Students learn about:

S Communication and networking S Development and enterprise skills S Managing accounts, buying and selling S Competing with other businesses in Australia

and around the world.

Sydney Institute’s virtual enterprise originally began trading as the Document Production Bureau Practice Firm in 1996, one of the first student firms established in Australia. By 2008 the firm had changed its focus to selling jewellery and the students named it Diamonds, Pearls and Bangles. Selling only top quality jewellery there is an extensive range of jewellery for men, women and children.

Diamonds, Pearls and Bangles is just one of the virtual businesses that trade with each other across the internet, buying and selling virtual goods with virtual money. It replicates the real business economy and involves marketing, purchasing, product development, salaries and frontline services. Students develop their practical skills by designing brochures, replying to correspondence and processing financial transanctions with other virtual enterprises operating across the world. It is an opportunity for students to make the theory come alive.

Changes in the Painting and Decorating IndustryThere have been many changes in the Painting and Decorating Industry over the years. Most of the changes have occurred in the products and equipment used.

In Europe and America many paints have been banned as they contain high VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds). Australia is following this by producing paints with low VOC’s and environmentally friendly paints.

Old oil based paints used to contain lead such as pink primers which contained both red and white lead. Water-based Three-in-One primer, sealer, undercoats are now very popular.

Traditionally ceilings were painted in flat enamel (oil based), but now we use water-based ceiling paints. Some companies even produce pink tinted ceiling whites that dry white for easy application by the home handy person.

Walls were usually painted in semi-gloss enamel, now washable low sheen water based paints are available. likewise wood work and trims were painted in high gloss and semi-gloss enamels, water based aqua enamels are now replacing these, although a lot of experienced painters still prefer good old fashioned enamels.

Painters once used 4” to 8” pure bristle flat wall brushes to paint large surfaces, very heavy on the hand and arm. Now synthetic bristle brushes 25mm to 100mm are also used in conjunction with rollers that come in all different widths and nap sizes (fluffiness) and can even be attached to airless spray units.

Airless spray units have become very popular due to the speed of application of large quantities of paint, compared with conventional spray which only sprayed low volumes of paint and a noisy compressor was required.

Products used in surface preparation have advanced from dry plaster fillers mixed with water to premixed acrylic easily sanded fillers. Dutch putty which was made from lead laden, oil-based undercoat and whiting has been replaced by water-based quick drying putties. Caulking compounds such as “no more gaps” have made the job of filling cracks and gaps so much easier.

Painters used to use pumice powder and whiting as an abrasive, later moving onto glass, sand and garnet papers. Today’s abrasives, aluminium oxide and silicone carbide are much more efficient, durable and don’t clog up easily.

Over the years the type of light duty scaffold has changed from heavy, cumbersome timber to aluminium step ladders and ladders, easier to use as well as meeting OH&S requirements. aluminium mobile scaffold is also a highly used popular option today.

In summary the Painting and Decorating industry has moved forward in leaps and bounds, especially with products that stand up to our harsh Australian climate, so much better than the traditional paints that originated in Europe.

Monica LloydPart-time teacher and former student

EngineeringMechanical and Electrical Engineering were original departments at Sydney Technical College in 1891. when workshops were opened at the Ultimo campus.

In 1909 the Mechanical department was described by Mr O. Blacket, Lecturer-in-charge of the department as:

The Engineering profession embraces a great many subjects, and it may be safely said the mechanical portion is the foundation.. the mechanical side was divided into the following branches mathematics, drawing, blacksmithing, patternmaking, ironfounding , fitting and turning... He has the chance of learning the laws that underlie the special branch of the trade he has decided on as his calling...

Sydney Technical College played an important role in training chemical engineers and skilled workers in the chemical trades in Australia. A number of chemistry subjects offered in the Department of Science had a course component which allowed advanced diploma students to undertake research in areas of special interest.

In 1904 Electrical Engineering and Physics formed one department. By 1909 the Electrical Engineering and Physics Department was established and R. C. Simpson Lecturer-in-charge of the department reported:

In Electrical Engineering the student spends the first year in studying the electrical and magnetic units and quantities, and making measurements in them, thus gaining a familiarity with these intangible things which is very necessary for an electrical engineer.

From 1913, the Sydney Technical College Chemical Society was active at Ultimo. Both staff and students could join the Society which provided a forum for the advancement of chemistry and the presentation of scientific papers.

1917 saw the creation of the first course in Australia in Chemical Engineering introduced by Dr. Murphy, considered the father of the profession. Dr Murphy had a considerable reputation with theatrical teaching methods attracting students attention by throwing sausages frozen in liquid nitrogen, which exploded when they hit the floor.

In 1919 the Engineering courses offered included diplomas in Mechanical, Local Government, Mining, Electrical, Telegraph and Telephone, Municipal and Sanitary Engineering and the Department of Science offered a diploma in Chemical Engineering.

The 1920s saw a growth in enrolments of the Mechanical Engineering Department from 582 in 1920 to 965 in 1929. It offered a course in Motor Construction (now Automotive Mechanics) but employment at this time was limited.

The Civil Engineering course handbook 1980 noted:

Personal are trained in this course for technician positions in specialised fields of civil engineering for local government organizations, government instrumentalities and the construction industry... Students who successfully complete this course will have satisfied the academic requirements for graduate membership of the Australian Institute of Engineering Associates Ltd., and of the Institute of Draftsmen (Australia) if they are also in relevant employment.

Today students can study engineering across the full range of disciplines including Electrical, Structural, Communications, Mechanical, Machining, Welding, Production, Electronics, Civil Construction and Fabrication.

FashionThe Fashion Design Studio started as the School of Dress Design in the early 1950s as part of the art school situated at East Sydney Technical College at Darlinghurst. It prospered as the only fashion design school in Sydney.

Ross Stay who had been a renowned champion ice skater had changed careers and became the first Head Teacher. Since 1990 the Head Teacher has been Nicholas Huxley. Nicholas commenced his studies as a part-time student in 1973, eventually becoming a teacher in 1984 and helping to transform the Fashion Design area.

The Fashion Design Studio is recognised as one of the premier fashion design centres in Australia and globally. The school moved to a new all purpose built building at the Ultimo campus in 2005. Past students include Akira Isogawa, Alex Perry, Nicky Zimmermann, Lisa Ho, Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett (Romance was Born), Dion Lee, Wayne Cooper, Michelle Jank, Marnie Skillings, Gary Bigeni, Bianca Spender, Karla Spetic and Genevieve Smart (Ginger and Smart).

Successes for Fashion Design Studio’s students include Janet Patterson receiving four Academy Award nominations for costume design (Oscar and Lucinda, The Piano, Portrait of a Lady, Bright Star), Evert Ploeg is a world renowned artist, Vogue Fashion Editors Elizabeth Schepzy and Gabriele Mihavloski , Robert Rigutto is a menswear designer for Calvin Klein in New York, Gregory Brooks is designer for Martin Margiela in Paris , Nicole Banning designs at Chanel in Paris.

What truly makes the Fashion Design Studio so unique and special is the talent and diversity of it’s hard working staff. Many are past students and many work in the fashion industry and are regarded highly for their professional experience and work ethic. Andrea Cainero, Acting Head Teacher and the costume designer and stylist for international band Empire of the Sun; Alex Zehntner is head stylist for Australia’s Top Model; nationally recognised artists Raquel Mazzina and Seaneen Tait; while Marina Batinic is currently exhibiting her Textile work in Europe. Simon Lock (who created Australian Fashion Week) joined the staff in 2011.

Sydney Institute is part of Australian Fashion Week with the studio’s annual Innovators parade which showcases a group of our top graduates. Sydney Institute is a member of IFFTI (International Foundation of Fashion and Technical Institutes) which holds annual conferences around the world to further design education. These international connections have led to partnerships with design institutes in London, Paris, New York, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Toronto and Los Angeles where graduating students can continue their studies overseas and gain a degree.

Sydney Institute industry partners include: S The Strand S Dylon Dyes S CBN Media and Cyber Threads S Vodka O S Goldwell S Toni & Guy S MAC S Redkin S Napoleon S Cameron Jane S Dynamic Coating S Grand Marnier S Campari S Leapfrog S The Fabric Store S David Lawrence S Think Positive S Fashion Future S Marcs S Sheridan/Peroni

Photo: Students showcase their creativity at graduation parades

Fred the Cat (1966-1984) Here Helen Manu gets the real story from Tim O’ Connor on the small statue, hiding behind the trees outside Building A on Mary Ann St...

Helen: Today is Friday 3 June 2011 and I’m meeting with Tim of Ultimo College, TAFE NSW, Sydney Institute, formerly known as Sydney Technical College. As part of the 120 year celebration this year and the popular local history tours conducted by Norm Neill, there has been a huge interest in the little known statue of Fred the cat which is located Building A, Mary Ann St. So could you tell us about Fred the cat please?

Tim: When I first came here in the mid 1976 and part of my lock up run which is what we did in those days, we came and locked up a run of buildings which hasn’t changed. Fred the cat was the chief potentate of the building. He walked around with a swagger that no senior executive could emulate. He walked unchallenged throughout the College, but he also had his home in Building A. Building A had old style gas fires and he would command a position in front of a gas fire in the executive suite of the first floor and when he finished for most of the day, he would walk around and inspect the rest of the College.

Tim: In those days there were very few women working in those days. It was an executive area and they were usually support staff. And the thing in those days too people could smoke. And they had smoker’s trays placed regularly along the corridor where one could stub out their cigarette and Fred had acquired an amazing skill of going to the bathroom with unerring accuracy into the sandpit. The males, of course, thought this was hilarious and was very keen to point it out to anybody that was passing by. And times have changed now. The first time I ever saw this was at the back door of Building A, where he straddled the stormwater grate and he aimed perfectly and executed very quickly the ‘task’ of the day. Senior staff would wait for him to finish before they walked through the back door. This was actually my first introduction to Fred the cat.

Tim: He (Fred the cat) was regularly cared for by Joy McMasters who was Head Teacher in Hairdressing and we (at Security) had regular deliveries of meat which had to be put out at several places for the cats. We had to ensure the cats were fed and report back if they needed a vet or if they were not well and then we had to go and check them. We believe by rumour that Fred was able to live till 18 years. I’m not sure of this because most cats don’t live past 12 (years).

But he lived to certainly a long time and when he died he was found and brought back to Joy McMasters. I can remember doing this - we found a sack that held nuts and bolts for scaffolding and we placed him in the sack and we buried him. I actually buried him. We thought because he was the College cat and Building A was where he lived that in those days. So we buried him in the sack and we all stood around and we had a moment’s silence and Joy wanted to know where he was buried, so we went and took her to the site. She got on very well with the people who were restoring Building I and the stonemasons were teaching a trade course there, so they made sure the location was correct and it was. In those days the garden was overgrown and nobody would have said anything, nobody would have seen anything. At that time, they made up a sandstone plinth, a base. They made a very, very good copy of cat in repose sitting and waiting or sitting and looking. This was such a nice item, that it got stolen shortly afterwards by, I presumed, Saturday night revellers. The stonemasons made another one which wasn’t quite as good a copy, but using the same stainless steel pinning from one to the other and that got pinched again. So the third statue was in fact bought from a garden supply company and has been Araldited [glued] to the plinth and that one survived.

Helen: Would you know how he got his name, Fred?

Tim: No – he was always called Fred the cat. He was different from other cats and we had no other cat that was like this. The thing was that he would follow the security guards around when they did their patrols. He would greet them and he knew when they were coming and he waited for them. He had a sense of time and he had a sense of location. He would walk around and he was in fact more like a dog than a cat. He was smart enough to know that you didn’t have to go up the steps when you were checking doors upstairs on the external balconies and things like that which they had so many of when I first came here. He would wait for you to come back down the stairs and continue on the ground level. All the guards had the same route, you had to do a door check to make sure everything was okay and he continued on that way. Most unusual cat – he was very perceptive, very affectionate cat, but he held his own position while still being affectionate. By being nice to you, he was obviously granting favours. He was a most amazing cat. A solid tabby cat, very strongly built.

Helen: That’s a fascinating story Tim. Thank you very much for making yourself available. I’m glad we can keep this information in remembrance of Fred the cat.

Health ScienceAllied Health and Life Sciences has grown from the studies offered from the departments of Chemistry, Physics and Botany as well as the trades sciences such as Laboratory Work and Field Work and practical science skills.

Courses such as Chemistry, Physics and Metallurgy formed some of the initial courses created in 1891. In the 1930s Sydney Institute built Building F to house Chemical Sciences. It included a state-of-the-art Chemical Instrumentation Laboratory. Designed to teach Pure and Allied Sciences, students could study subjects such as Metallurgy, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. At one stage it even housed a dry cleaning facility for Dry Cleaning students!

The Department of Science Handbook of 1935 reported:

The Department of Science... provides courses of instruction in pure and applied sciences, and includes within its scope Chemistry, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Biology and Geology... There is also a certificate course within the Science Department, namely, the Laboratory Assistants’ course. Though of a lower standard than the diploma courses, this course nevertheless fills a useful and, in fact, necessary place in the technical education system.

By 1950 the Laboratory Assistants’ certificate course ran for three years but the handbook stated:

The certificate is awarded only to those who have at least two years experience in laboratory work.

The 1970s saw the creation of the Food Technology area of study. With the growth of the universities there was a decline in the enrolment numbers for the pure sciences but Food Technology remained strong and led to the current course design.

In 2002 an amalgamation of a large number of TAFE sections resulted in the formation of Allied Health and Life Sciences at Sydney Institute, Ultimo. This amalgamation included the following sections of Applied Science, Pathology, Biology and Health Auxiliaries (Audiometry, Optical Dispensing, Sterilisation, Optical Mechanics, Museum techniques, Electron microscopy, Pathology Specimen Collecting, Mortuary practices, Scientific Photography and English for Health Professionals).

There has been a significant increase in the graduating numbers for Allied Health and Life Sciences. From 2002 – 2009 there were about 450 graduates and now a total of 700 students come to study at Sydney Institute.