“That ICPA Qld seeks commitment from the Department of Education and the Minister for Education to create a state-run Agricultural High School with co-educational boarding facilities, that combines academic studies with hands-on practical learning in all aspects of agriculture.”
Students with an interest in any/all aspects of agriculture, including developing the diversity of skills, knowledge and capabilities required to work in agriculture, should have the opportunity to combine academic learning with practical hands-on learning. This should be delivered face to face by trade/industry quality facilitators/educators, allowing these students to gain a nationally recognised qualification and complete their senior school outcome so they can pursue a career in the industry.
In this school if Agriculture was a compulsory subject for all students in Years 7 to 10, and is offered as an elective subject for Years 11 and 12, it would not only enhance experience but give opportunity for learning and development of skills. There would be opportunity for the students to experience in a broad sense, all components of agriculture to assist them identify where their interests and strengths lie. Years 11 and 12 would offer more specific pathways, whilst the student continues to achieve relevant academic results along with vocational outcomes that are supported with workplace/industry pathways and experience.
Academics learning should be recognised and weighted the same as industry placement, training and course materials to increase the success of students to be able to transition from school to work. When students gain experience, knowledge and skills through a specific Agricultural high school this enhances not only the positive academic outcomes but employment opportunities, skills development and pathways that are relevant and required.
The provision of suitable boarding facilities (co-educational), in the sector of Agricultural learning, would provide the opportunity for a student, regardless of their original locality, to access learning, develop and grow a sense of community and engage a support network for learning, work and future pathways.
There is clearly a demonstrated need with Agricultural High schools with boarding facilities in NSW and WA, being at capacity with families calling for more facilities to be built to cope with demand. Students who complete an education at an Agricultural high school will be work ready and able to fill a gap in an area that is in dire need of skilled employees.
