Communication, Exchange and Mutual Learning — Our School's Teacher Delegation Visits Holmesglen Institute, Australia for Exchange and Study

Upon invitation, a teacher delegation from our school paid a two-week visit to Holmesglen Institute, Melbourne in Australia from July 14th to 27th, aiming to further promote international exchanges and cooperation.

Holmesglen Institute is a TAFE college authorized by the Australian government and is also one of the earliest educational institutions to obtain ISO9001 quality system certification. It offers nearly a hundred vocational education and higher education training programs, highly similar to the majors offered by our school.

During the exchange, the delegation gained an in-depth understanding of the current status of vocational education in Australia, as well as an overview of TAFE and VET vocational education, the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), the Quality Training Framework, national certification, and vocational education and training packages. They developed a profound comprehension of the Australian vocational education system, with a particular focus on the AQF, ASQA, and RTO. Additionally, the delegation learned more about the application of "people-centered care" and restraint measures, and visited aged care training labs. They gained a comprehensive understanding of the quality standards of aged care in Australia, recognizing the importance of safety, respecting clients, and providing personalized services in aged care.

Based on the schedule, our school’s teachers also visited the Simulated Tunnel Center of Holmesglen Institute, including simulated tunnels, control rooms, and training classrooms. They experienced VR professional training at the Simulated Tunnel Center, gaining an intuitive understanding of how technology aids safety education. Furthermore, the group learned about the philosophy, curriculum design, and innovative practical course system of dental education. They visited professional practice venues such as dental assistant training labs and denture production labs. Through field visits, delegation members gained a hands-on understanding of the application of mold processing and 3D printing technology in dental education. They actively explored and discussed the practical aspects of dental education with the instructors.

During the study period, both parties had thorough exchanges on the differences between the Chinese and Australian education and healthcare systems. The head of the delegation and the deputy vice chancellor of Holmesglen Institute officially recognize Holmesglen Institute as "Australian Training Base" for Suzhou Vocational Health College.

The visit to Holmesglen Institute was short but fruitful. Both parties held an in-depth roundtable discussion on specific topics such as the potential for future undergraduate education for nursing students, curriculum structure, language requirements for admission, and student management. Both sides expressed their consensus and aspirations for further deepening cooperation to enhance the quality of nursing education talents and the development vision of international education, which will provide students with broader learning and practical opportunities. The delegation not only studied Australia's qualification certification system but also broadened their international perspectives as educators. They learned about international vocational education concepts, teaching methodologies, and management approaches. Delegation members are willing to make best use this trip to continue innovating teaching methods, improving teaching standards, and contributing to the high-quality development of the school.