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Tenth Tech School Opens In Bendigo

17 October 2018

More than 126,000 students from 160 schools across the state now have access to the latest technology and innovative learning programs, with today’s official opening of the Bendigo Tech School also marking the tenth in Victoria.

Minister for Education James Merlino said the new state-of-the-art facility delivers on a key $128 million election commitment to deliver 10 Tech Schools across the state.

Located in the new Engineering and Technology Building at La Trobe University’s Flora Hill campus, the Tech School gives 8,500 students from 14 local government, catholic and independent schools access to programs to prepare them for the jobs of the future.

All 10 Tech Schools feature purpose-built spaces for students to collaborate and participate in high-level problem solving, using specialised high-tech STEM equipment.

Students will use the latest robotics, virtual reality and advanced manufacturing equipment to experiment and deliver projects. For example, Bendigo Tech School boasts the first prototyping waterjet cutter in an Australian education institution.

Tech School programs are free to local students and align with local employment needs, including medical and new energy technology, advanced manufacturing, food and fibre, transport and construction.

Bendigo students are already getting a taste of the Tech School through pilot programs which were developed in consultation with local schools, community and industry partners and involve students exploring everything from agriculture to healthcare and affordable housing.

Tech Schools are part of the Labor Government’s plan to boost performance in STEM subjects, including more students reaching the highest level of achievement in mathematics and science.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino

“We need students to be ready for the jobs of the future and that’s why we’re investing in Tech Schools - so they can get the hands-on learning with technology they need.”

“We promised 10 tech schools and Bendigo is the last to open - more than 126,000 students at 160 schools can access the latest technology and prepare for the jobs of the future.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“Bendigo Tech School has been designed in collaboration with local schools, businesses and industries and will help students develop the future skills and experience they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. I was privileged to Chair the Tech School Committee that worked so hard and collaboratively to deliver this new Tech School”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allen

“Only Labor delivered a state-of-the-art Tech School in Bendigo to get more local people into jobs and make sure we have great TAFE facilities for the whole community.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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