Australian Training Awards 2011 School Pathways to VET Award – John Forrest Secondary College

Perth based John Forrest Secondary College (JFSC) caters for approximately 650 students drawn from broad socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. The college’s longstanding INSTEP program provides the frame work through which a suite of vocational education and training (VET) pathways are provided for up to 150 students each year.

Students utilising the INSTEP program, are able to complete their secondary schooling whilst also completing nationally recognised VET qualifications.

Since 2007, a unique and evolving partnership between JFSC and MPA Skills (the principal training arm of the Master Plumbers and Gas Fitters Association of WA and the Master Painters Association of WA) to deliver a range of programs on the college site has developed. Through these programs, students begin the first stage of a mapped and highly supportive life cycle for employment that begins with the integration of Australian School-based Apprenticeships within the senior school curriculum.

This pathway continues through to potential employment by MPA Skills as a full-time Australian Apprentice on completion of Year 12 or in lieu of finishing secondary schooling. Trends have shown increased applications each year and it is anticipated that there will be a waiting list for all programs in future years.