New England students will continue to benefit from hands-on vocational learning while still at school, as the State Government announces ongoing funding of $38.9 million for the Educational Pathways Program (EPP).
The announcement comes during National Skills Week 2025, underscoring the importance of vocational education and training and the diverse and rewarding career opportunities it provides.
“The Educational Pathways Program has proven itself as a game-changer for students, schools and employers right across NSW. By making its funding ongoing, we’re guaranteeing its impact for years to come.” said NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan.
“The results speak for themselves, with more than 50,000 students taking part in EPP programs last year alone. This investment means more students will be able to access those life-changing opportunities.”
The EPP gives students a head start by letting them try out trades, connect with employers and take their first steps into apprenticeships and traineeships before graduating.
The program builds confidence, career awareness, and real-world skills, while creating a stronger pipeline of skilled workers for NSW.
Since its launch, the program has expanded rapidly across schools and proven its impact. Student engagement in EPP initiatives has surged from 3,800 in 2021 to more than 50,000 in 2024, while participation in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships has risen by 20 per cent in recent years.
“The delivery of high-quality vocational education through the Educational Pathways Program is opening students’ and parents’ eyes to the incredible post-school opportunities that are available in the workforce.” said Department of Education Secretary, Murat Dizdar.
“I am committed to ensuring every student leaves school equipped with the skills they need to succeed and Skills Week is the perfect time to dispel outdated stereotypes of vocational education and instead focus on the nation-building potential these careers now represent in a rapidly evolving jobs landscape.”
This investment also delivers on recommendations from the NSW VET Review, which called for closer collaboration between schools, TAFE and industry, and highlighted the importance of embedding vocational education as a high-quality, aspirational option for students.
New England Schools taking part
Armidale Secondary College
Ashford Central School
Barraba Central School
Bingara Central School
Bundarra Central School
Glen Innes High School
Gunnedah High School
Guyra Central School
Inverell High School
Macintyre High School
Manilla Central School
Moree Secondary College
Narrabri High School
Oxley High School
Peel High School
Quirindi High School
Tamworth High School
Tenterfield High School
Uralla Central School
Walcha Central School
Warialda High School
Wee Waa High School
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