We are top of the class in training young Queenslanders

A report released this week shows that Queensland is leading the way in providing world class training for young Queenslanders aged 15-19.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman said the NCVER report on the participation of young people (aged 15-19) in education and training showed that Queensland was the strongest performing state across a number of areas in vocational education and training (VET).

“This is a fantastic result for Queensland, as the report shows we have had the strongest growth in our VET in Schools (VETiS) programs and in the number of young apprentices and trainees.

“This means we are getting more young Queenslanders the training and skills they need at an early age, giving them a head start once they finish school.”

“Queensland was one of only three states to report an increase in VETis students with a 10.4% growth in 2016/17.”

“We have had the strongest increase in apprentices and trainees with nation leading growth of 9%.”

“The strongest take up of VETis programs was in Engineering.”

“A Jobs Queensland report projected that more than one third of certificate-qualified workers will have an engineering and related technologies qualification by 2022 and that STEM education is critically important for the future of Queensland.

“The NVCER report shows that Queensland is on the right track to producing the skilled workers we will need to fill the jobs of the future.

“The Palaszczuk Government will continue to invest in vocational education and training through our VET Investment Strategy and initiatives such as free tafe, providing 160 qualifications for all year 12 graduates for free.”

For more information on training available visit: https://training.qld.gov.au/

For information on free tafe visit: https://training.qld.gov.au/home/freetafe

ENDS

Media Contact:                      Inga Williams              0439 949 719