High flying local school gains national recognition
15 October 2004
A comprehensive co-educational local state high school offering courses from aeronautics to aquaculture is in the running to become Australia’s best provider of vocational education and training at school.
Ballina High School offers an extensive range of nationally recognised VET courses and is a finalist in the VET in Schools Excellence Award of the 2004 Australian Training Awards to be held in Melbourne next month.
The school has piloted numerous VET related projects, all of which have made significant gains to student learning and their educational outcomes.
With an indigenous student population of around 10 per cent, the school piloted a program designed to encourage students to stay at school longer or to undertake further education.
Strong community links and partnerships combined with the ongoing enthusiasm and commitment of teachers has also ensured the programs are sustainable.
According to ANTA chairman, David Hind, Australia’s key to keeping ahead of international competitors is world-class training providers who meet the skill needs of businesses and individuals.
“Schools like Ballina High School are breaking new ground in delivering quality training when, how and where businesses, students and the community want it,” said Mr Hind.
Ballina High is one of three organisations vying for the national VET in Schools honour at the awards. Western Australia’s North Lake Senior Campus and Peninsula VET, representing Victoria, will also compete.
Four students will also be flying the New South Wales flag. Four students will also be flying the New South Wales’ flag. St Clare’s (Sydney) Scott Saunders, Peter Blundell-Strong of Darlinghurst (Sydney), the Hunter Valley’s Eliza Taylor and Jessica Lowe of Wollongong are all in the running for a national title.
The 2004 Australian Training Awards will be held at the Crown Entertainment Complex in Melbourne on Thursday, 18 November 2004. The awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of apprentices, trainees and students as well as the contribution of enterprises and training providers to skilling Australia.
The Australian Training Awards are hosted by the Australian National Training Authority and supported by the Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES CONTACT: Alison Carbery, Red Agency, 03 9421 4899 or 0409 070 507
Register to attend at http://www.anta.gov.au/vetawards.asp or contact the organisers on 1800 150 653.