More skills for students

Secondary schools across Victoria will receive funding to help students gain the skills they need for a career in agriculture.

State Education Minister Natalie Hutchins last week announced grants will be awarded to 43 school projects that boost student pathways into the sector, as part of the $5.5 million Secondary Schools Agriculture Fund.

Gippsland-based students looking to move into the dairy industry will be able to engage with Dairylearn Transition Pathways – a $200,000 project aimed at building pathways from education to the dairy workforce.

Around $1 million in funding will allow tech schools to invest in new technology and resources to deliver online and outreach agricultural technology programs.

The Secondary Schools Agriculture Fund forms part of the Labor Government’s $50 million investment in the Agricultural College Modernisation Program – helping more students pursue careers in agriculture and meet the growing demands of the growing farm, food and fibre sector.

Improving access to vocational education and training (VET) is part of the Senior Secondary Pathway Reforms, offering students more choices that match their strengths and interests.

From 2023, more Victorian schools will provide access to a set of 12 core VET pathways for students.

“This is all about backing our students – who are the future of agriculture and the next generation of farmers. This funding will help thousands of young people get the skills and the experience they need for a career in the sector and set them on the path to a bright future,” Ms Hutchins said.