First look at new vocational high school facilities

Work on the pilot initiative to deliver new specialist VET facilities at two NSW public high schools is progressing with the first artist’s impressions released to the community last week.
Seven Hills High School and Tweed River High School will benefit from the construction of specialist learning spaces, supporting students who want to further their studies in vocational education.
Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the new facilities will be an opportunity for students to gain practical skills while gaining qualifications for their future careers.
“We want our students to be inspired when they come to school and be excited to engage in learning that is relevant to them and where they want to go in their post school lives. The schools will be a place for these students to get hands on experience,” Ms Mitchell said.
Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the future focused learning spaces will support pathways to apprenticeships, traineeships and trade qualifications, as well as pathways to higher education.
“Integrating vocational training into schools is a game changer for students who are looking to take advantage of the pipeline of skills-related jobs created from major projects like the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and other industries this will attract,” Mr Lee said.
Member for Seven Hills Mark Taylor said he was looking forward to seeing students benefit from the new facilities, focusing on the industries of construction, logistics and health services.
“It is very exciting to see the concept designs finalised for the upgrade at Seven Hills High School and that we can provide the best for our teachers and students,” Mr Taylor said.
Member for Tweed, Geoff Provest said he was pleased the NSW Government is delivering this important upgrade for the Tweed Heads community.
“Tweed Heads is a growing regional centre, and investments in educational facilities that build skills in the areas of construction, hospitality, primary industries and business will further build the capability and strength of this region while supporting economic growth,” Mr Provest said.
The NSW Government is investing $7 billion over four years, continuing its program to deliver more than 200 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.