October 26, 2015
The opening today of the new Nagle College Trades Skills Centre in Bairnsdale will help create pathways for local students into the workforce and to valued careers, says the Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester.
Local students and staff at Bairnsdale can now make full use of trade training facilities, which has been developed through the Australian Government’s funding commitment of $1 million.
“The Nagle College Trades Skills Centre is all about giving students the real skills they need to help them get the jobs that we will need in the future,” Mr Chester said.
Training centres like this enable local students to pursue vocational pathways and develop skills across a range of fields.
“There are real skills shortages in regions throughout Australia, which means local students, and indeed the whole school community will benefit from the use of this innovative new building.”
Mr Chester said the new centre incorporates engineering and construction workshop, two theory rooms, two outside covered work areas, a preparation room, office, storage rooms and equipment.
“The Australian Government is committed to ensuring vocational training meets the needs of industry and employers and to providing students with training, particularly in areas where there are skills shortages,” Mr Chester said.
“Skills training at secondary school provides a basis for students to pursue further training after school or to enter the workplace.
“I congratulate the entire school community for its foresight in getting this centre up and running.”
The Minister for Education and Training, Senator Birmingham, also congratulated Nagle College on its official opening of the Trades Skills Centre.
Senator Birmingham said that as well as delivering increased funding to schools, the Australian Government is focusing on quality education for Australian schools.
“While buildings alone do not make a great school, I hope students and staff will enjoy learning and be inspired by these new facilities,” Senator Birmingham said.
“The Australian Government is committed to improving the quality of our schools and equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive world.”
CAPTIONS:
Pic 1 – Unveiling the plaque at today’s opening of the Nagle College Trade Skills Centre were Nagle College Principal Mr Neville Powles; Father Peter Bickley, Canonical Administrator; Breanna Janson, School Captain, Jordan Strini, School Captain, and Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester MP.
