Legislative Council Thursday 14 June, 2018

Ms  FORREST  to LEADER of the GOVERNMENT in the LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, Mrs HISCUTT

Regarding the successful extension of high schools to include years 11 and 12 in many high schools around the state -

(1)  What plans does the Government have to work with TasTAFE to provide outreach services to offer courses to increase capacity and access to vocational education and transition into the workforce in regional areas?

(2)  Has the Government considered an option of high schools partnering with TasTAFE to enhance opportunities for students to vocational education options and transition to employment?

ANSWER

Mr President, I thank the member for Murchison for her question.

(1)  Over the last four years 38 schools have extended to years 11 and 12, leaving 19 high schools to be extended by 2022.  The future extension of all high schools will provide greater access for young people in rural and regional Tasmania to complete their education to year 12.  TasTAFE will continue to work with the Department of Education and directly with schools to increase opportunities for vocational education and training.

(2)  TasTAFE works with trade training centres to deliver skill sets and full qualifications based on regional needs.  These training centres include the Huon Valley Trade Training Centre, adjacent to the Huonville High School; Southern Central at Bridgewater; George Town Trade Training Centre; and the West Coast Trade Training Centre in Queenstown.

TasTAFE partners with a range of schools for vocational education and training, such as St Patrick's College in Launceston.  Partnership arrangements are also in place with extension schools, providing support for teaching staff and expertise on resources and assessments.