Stuart Hoxley has introduced new TAFE teaching techniques. 25898 Picture: Luke Plummer
By Casey Neill
UPWEY’S Stuart Hoxley has topped his class, taking home a national teaching award.
The Swinburne TAFE team leader is the building and construction trades and skills teacher of the year.
He was quick to share the accolade with his teaching team.
“It was not only a personal achievement, but also recognition of a team effort,” he said.
Mr Hoxley is keen to encourage disengaged youth to take up a trade. He has pioneered changes to the way apprentices learn, introducing a blended learning model that incorporates online assessment.
“It’s more flexible for the apprentice and the employer,” he said.
“They can fast-track their apprenticeship without sacrificing their learning. “They can be on the job more with their employers and it can free up teachers too, to help those who need it.”
Encouraging sustainability and green building techniques is also high on Mr Hoxley’s agenda.
He spent three months in the US last August examining sustainability techniques and building concepts and hopes to use in his courses.
Mr Hoxley has managed the building and construction department at Swinburne TAFE’s Croydon campus since 2006.
“I enjoy passing on my know-how and watching the young guys grow and develop,” he said.
“And when they come back and have started their own business, or are back to pick an apprentice it’s satisfying.”
Mr Hoxley ran a successful building business for more than 10 years.
A reunion with an old high school teacher prompted him to give TAFE teaching a go.
“When I came into the TAFE system it was very traditional, and set in its ways,” he said.
“It’s broken out of its mould.”
Mr Hoxley received the Swinburne TAFE teacher of the year award in 2004.
“But it’s great getting the accolades and support from external groups,” he said.
The Institute for Trade Skills Excellence promotes learning, teaching and training in Australian trades and skills.
Its second annual awards recognise teachers and organisations for excellence.
