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St Philip’s Christian College Cessnock is rapidly increasing the number of Vocational Education and Training (VET) subjects at the school and, by next year, will offer eight of these subjects.
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Last year, there were two VET subjects offered but by next year there will be hospitality, construction, automotive, business studies, electro technologies, aviation, tourism and events management and sport and recreation.
VET Coordinator, Luke Carter, said that back in 2014, government introduced a legislation that required students to either stay at school until they were 17 years-old or have a job.
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He said this stopped a lot of students leaving after Year 10 and so the Australian government increased its funding in an attempt to get students qualified and skilled to help them earn jobs.
Mr Carter said many VET subjects are very popular in the area.
“Therefore, we’ve basically decided we’re going to offer as many of those VET subjects as possible,” he said.
At St Philip’s, there are 26 Year 11 and 12 students completing a VET subject. In 2017, this number will double.
Mr Carter said students would finish with national trade based qualifications which in turn would give them extra opportunities when applying for jobs after their schooling is complete.
“[VET subjects] provide clear pathways to employment, further education and are a head start to apprenticeships, traineeships and cadetships,” Mr Carter said.
“These qualifications are recognised by industry and the Board of Studies as 2 Unit courses so students can have them contribute to their HSC and ATAR.
“While the students are studying these courses, they have to complete a work placement of 70 hours which also gives the students experience implementing the skills they have learned to real job situations.”
Students not only receive a certificate in the subject but have a chance to earn other qualifications in the industry.
Year 11 student Lucy Farrell is studying business services. “I’m learning really important skills for an office environment,” she said.
Oliver Lorenzen, Year 12, is studying automotive. He said it would make it easier for him to move into an apprenticeship after he finishes school.
Connor Galbraith, Year 11, is studying electro technology and automotive. “I’m doing VET subjects because I prefer the hands-on learning,” he said.
Elizabeth Smith, Year 11, enjoys automotive. The practical component of her hospitality subject is at a local restaurant where students have access to a commercial kitchen.
St Philip’s - located on a 42 hectare site in Nulkaba – has grown to almost 1000 students since it was founded 18 years ago. Details: 4007 5000.