Based on the key elements of the P-TECH model, the P-TECH styled learning program at Hunter River High School has been designed by the school’s leadership team and local education, industry and community partners to suit local circumstances. In the P-TECH model, local employers partner with schools, TAFEs/RTOs and universities to strengthen students’ prospects of a successful transition to work by ensuring they develop the technical and personal skills employers are looking for.
In January 2017, Hunter River High School introduced an innovative P-TECH styled skills-based program that focuses on aeronautical and related aerospace industries, and provides an industry supported pathway for students to achieve a post-school qualification in an area of growing local employment demand.
To achieve this goal, the school has worked collaboratively with other education and training providers and a number of major locally-based employer partners including BAE Systems Australia, Jetstar, Varley Group Engineering and Ampcontrol.
To prepare its students for the world beyond school, all Year 10 students at Hunter River High School will commence a P-TECH immersion program in 2017, and take part in a range of industry supported learning experiences that will extend their education beyond the classroom.
This includes opportunities to connect and build relationships with industry partners, and engage in hands-on, project-based activities, both at school and in the workplace. These experiences will help students to better understand the relevance of their learning and how it can be applied in the workplace.
In future years, and with support from industry partners and industry mentors, students will have the opportunity to commence and pursue formal STEM training as part of a nationally recognised VET qualification, while also undertaking their Higher School Certificate (HSC). With ongoing support from their industry mentor, and established connections with the school’s industry partners, P-TECH students will have the opportunity to extend their study beyond secondary school, and transition to a post-secondary education institution to achieve a STEM related diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree.
Participating in the P-TECH styled learning program will build student interest and skills in STEM, and raise awareness of the breadth and depth of STEM related training and employment pathways that are locally available. The program will be structured to develop the technical and personal skills students need to succeed at school and make a successful transition to further study and work beyond school.
The P-TECH pilot at Hunter River High School is supported by the local community and NSW Government.
Our partners
Education Partners
Key Industry Partners
Tertiary Education Partners
