GOTAFE growing passion in local students
GOTAFE has partnered with Yea High School to host three agriculture and horticulture taster days in Shepparton.
Students from Yea High School attended GOTAFE’s William Orr campus, and in a working farm environment, have been encouraged to consider a career in either of the growing fields.
Among activities being held on the third and final taster day on July 24 include tree planting, hydroponics, sheep handling, soil testing, livestock tagging and an introduction to artificial insemination practices with livestock.
Coordinator Land at GOTAFE Rob Hall said staff have enjoyed sharing their passion with prospective students.
"We are so fortunate to have such passionate trainers here at GOTAFE, sharing their love for industry with prospective students. With the recent $1.99 million funding announcement from the State Government, we know the future for our agriculture and horticulture students will be exciting. Partnering with local schools will play a huge role in providing a future workforce which is passionate about industry."
Rob also said that collaboration with local groups and schools, such as Yea High School, will assist in reducing the skill shortage within industry.
“As an industry, we've struggled with a skill shortage, which is why I think a multi-layered approach including secondary school connections and community-based elements is so important,” he said.
GOTAFE is holding Open Days to provide community members with information regarding career pathways and study options on the following dates: Wangaratta (Docker Street Campus) 20 August; Shepparton (Fryers Street Campus) 26 August; and Seymour (Wallis Street Campus) 2 September. These will be followed by a series of Open Month activities throughout September with information sessions and tours available.