A new era in vocational educationThere’s a buzz in the air in Adelaide’s southern suburbs heralding the recent arrival of a new vocational-style of education targeted specifically at senior secondary students.
In what is regarded as a ‘departure from the norm’, Marcellin Technical College, at Christie Downs, is leading the charge in securing school-based apprenticeships and training specific to students’ area of interest towards their SACE studies.
Whilst traditional trade areas of construction, metal fabrication, automotive and electrotechnology are featured, the College will also offer new Certificate II and Certificate III programs in conjunction with industry from 2011.
A major new program is
Horticulture/Water Management, run in partnership with the McLaren Vale Grapegrowers and Irrigation Australia, which is expected to attract 15 industry placements in conjunction with local winemakers.
Marcellin Technical College is also fast-developing a reputation as the only provider delivering tailored business training at secondary level in the region through its
Certificate III in Business Studies program run in conjunction with the Australian Institute of Management (AIM SA).
As a further boost, the new
Certificate II in Animal Studies, offered through TAFE SA (Gilles Plains), will enable southern students to gain careers as an Animal Welfare Worker, Pet Shop Assistant and Kennel Hand, while laying the foundation for a pathway into Vet Nursing.
Rounding off next year’s new programs is the
Certificate III in Hospitality run through Hospitality Group Training (HGT) which is proving popular for students interested in a career as a Cook/Chef, or within Food & Beverage, Gaming and Functions.
In addition, the College has also developed a partnership with Thoroughbred Racing South Australia (TRSA) and working with the Apprenticeship Academy at Morphettville to educate the next generation of jockeys through its School-based Apprenticeship program.
Principal/CEO Mr. Jim Fenoughty said that Marcellin students could potentially finish Year 12 with not only their SACE, but could commence a Certificate III qualification or gain a suitable traineeship.
“Over 150 young people from the south have secured either full-time or part-time apprenticeships during the first three years of our operation,” said Mr Fenoughty.
“We offer a unique program allowing students to commence a SACE qualification from Year 11 and simultaneously commence a career pathway where they can earn money while in training and education. This approach has been very well received by students, parents and employers.”
Mr Fenoughty also reported that the College is playing a vital role in meeting growing demand for skilled trades.
“As a matter of strategy, we are actively positioning our College and designing our programs and courses to assist the national demand for a skilled workforce.”
Recognising not all students are academically-inclined, Marcellin Technical College provides students with individual mentoring and support from staff with real-world work experience.
In recognition of its
new programs for 2011, the College will hold an information evening on Wednesday, August 25 from 5:30pm.
To register your attendance and for further information, contact Alana at the College on 8186 9700, view our website at
http://www.mtc.sa.edu.au, or email
enrol@mtc.sa.edu.au.
Alternatively, you can visit the College during office hours at the corner of Beach and Mander Roads, Christie Downs.
Last Modified on 27/07/2010 18:34