Like RDA Hunter’s ME Program, the P-TECH model created in the USA is about collaboration – a partnership between education, industry and community. It aims to provide an industry supported pathway for young people to achieve a qualification that strengthens their employment prospects. The Federal Government is adopting the P-Tech model in Australia to help meet the growing demand for workers with STEM skills. 

RDA Hunter is calling for expressions of interest from Hunter High Schools and Industry to work with us on developing a case to present to the Federal government to help win a P-Tech school for the region.

For more information or to register your interest contact RDA Hunter ME Program Director, Mr Scott Sleap at scott.sleap@rdahunter.org.au

The key elements that make up the P-TECH model, include:

Innovative curriculum
Course design includes the way existing Australian Curriculum and Australian Qualification Framework recognised education and training is sequenced (or ordered) to achieve the best outcomes for students, as well as innovative approaches to the way learning is delivered.
Innovative Approaches to Learning
Partnerships between schools and industry can deliver learning experiences that would not be possible if schools, or industry, acted in isolation. Working together, schools and industry can provide opportunities for students to engage with the world of work and better understand the relevance of their learning to jobs and post-school pathways.
Industry mentoring and support
The mentor relationship between industry personnel provides continuity of support for students to achieve a post-school qualification. The mentor relationship will ensure the students’ learning stays on track and provides opportunities for guidance to help young people make informed decisions regarding their education, training and employment options.
A post-school qualification
In Australia, it is likely that the achievement of a diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree will involve schools partnering with other education providers (TAFEs/RTOs or universities) to deliver elements to the P-TECH learning programme (either on-site or off-site).
Links to employment
Collaboration between the education and industry sectors strengthens the connection between student learning and the skills that employers need. It improves young people’s prospects of employment, including opportunities for employment with industry partners.

Visit www.saf.org.au for further information