Successful accreditation secures John Henry Institute’s regional impact

Registered training organisation, John Henry Institute (JHI), marked a major milestone in 2025 by securing renewal of its accreditation until 2032. Meeting the strengthened standards of the Australian Skills Quality Authority, the renewed registration recognises JHI’s commitment to student support, wellbeing, inclusion, and high-quality vocational training. “The team’s dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence has truly paid off,” said JHI Manager Natasha Murphy.

With this accreditation secured, JHI continued to strengthen vocational education across regional NSW, delivering nationally recognised training that builds practical capability and supports employment in critical workforce areas. From plumbing apprenticeships to aged care and leadership programs, JHI’s courses remain closely aligned with the needs of local employers, industry partners, and Parish services.

In 2025, JHI celebrated over 200 graduates in first aid qualifications and 55 graduates who completed Certificate III and IV qualifications in Educational School-Based Support, Individual Support, Plumbing, and Leadership and Management. These graduates represent both new entrants to the workforce and existing workers upskilling to meet increasing sector demands.

Addressing the graduating cohort, Natasha acknowledged the determination required to balance study with work and family responsibilities. “You have worked hard and accomplished so much since starting your study with the John Henry Institute – as adult learners we know the journey is different for everyone and it is not always easy – we are privileged to make a difference in your lives.”

Graduate Mylene Seno, who completed a Certificate III in Individual Support, reflected on the significance of her qualification: “All this experience taught me compassion, patience, and the real care is not just a job, it is love. Completing my Certificate III was not simply finishing a course. It was finally making my childhood dream come true.”

Plumbing remains a strategically significant program. As one of the only providers of plumbing apprenticeships between Newcastle and Coffs Harbour, JHI plays an important role in addressing regional trade shortages and building a sustainable pipeline of qualified tradespeople to support housing, infrastructure, and community growth across the Mid North Coast.

Beyond training delivery, JHI contributed to broader workforce policy discussions. Natasha represented St Agnes’ Catholic Parish at a NSW Parliamentary inquiry, sharing best-practice approaches to training and employing aged care workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program, informed by learnings from 2024 PALM graduates.

Through quality training, strong governance, and active workforce engagement, JHI continues to deliver measurable outcomes for students, employers, and the wider community, ensuring its accreditation translates into lasting regional impact.