Gordon crowned triple winners

The Gordon Institute of TAFE has received top honours at the prestigious Study Melbourne Victorian International Education Awards.

The Gordon was recognised for putting the best interests of students first and its incredible achievement of delivering 100 years of international education with three awards, including the Premier’s Award for the International Provider of the Year.

“Our team has worked tirelessly over the past two years to ensure our international students stayed strongly connected to the Institute, the community and each other - it's The Gordon experience”, said Joe Ormeno, CEO of The Gordon. 

“I am immensely proud of the team’s achievements, including the teaching teams involved in delivering programs to our international students, the international team and our support teams. 

“It’s a tremendous acknowledgement, especially on the back of what has been a challenging period. While our focus will always be on our students, awards like this serve as great recognition of our work”, continued Mr Ormeno.

The Institute places students at the core of every decision and action. This value underpinned how The Gordon’s international team approached student support throughout the COVID pandemic. 

Jana Perera, Executive Director of Commercial Business said, “We aim to foster a strong sense of community for international students, from the first offer, to orientation and beyond, so that students feel like they really know us before they arrive.” 

“Based in regional Victoria, we recognise that it is imperative that our students feel supported – to mitigate any potential feelings of isolation and loneliness.

“Our commitment to providing a supportive living and learning environment also extends to connecting students with local employers to give them valuable opportunities to gain experience in their industry, while strengthening their connection to the community” said Ms Perera.

Recognised for providing practical support in a safe and supportive environment, The Gordon also received awards for Excellence in International Student Experience and Excellence in International Education – TAFE.

“The international team minimised student withdrawals due to the pandemic’s lockdowns, through regular communication with students, providing a broad range of personalised support services internally and externally” continued Ms Perera.

The VIEA recognise and showcase exceptional Victorian international students and alumni in our community, and education providers who champion international education in Victoria and across the globe.