Nominations open for Bonner Top Vet Students
Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, today encouraged eligible students in the Bonner electorate to nominate for the nation’s top prize for Year 12 students undertaking vocational education and training in school.
The Abbott Government has launched the 2014 Australian Vocational Student Prize (AVSP) as part of its commitment to promoting take up of high-quality trades and training in schools.
“With skills shortages in a range of employment sectors across the country, we really do need more of our young people pursuing training in areas of demand,” Mr Vasta said.
“These awards are part of the Government’s strategy to increase recognition of the ‘first-class’ career pathway provided by high-quality trades and training.”
Mr Vasta said Bonner was home to many vocational students worthy of the AVSP. He said during a recent visit to Brisbane Bayside State College with Assistant Minister for Education, Sussan Ley, he was impressed with the quality of the VET programs available and with the students’ passion for their work.
Principal at Brisbane Bayside State College, Darren Wallwork, said the school fully supported students accessing a vocational pathway in their senior phase of learning.
“We believe the vocational pathway provides exposure to the myriad post-school options, and allows for the development of skills for work and lifelong learning,” Mr Wallwork said.
The 2014 AVSP will award up to 500 outstanding Year 12 students undertaking relevant VETiS qualifications as part of their senior secondary certificate with $1,000 in prize money and a certificate.
Up to 20 AVSP winners will also be eligible for the Australian Award for Skills Excellence in School.
Nominations close at 8pm (AEDT) on Friday, 28 November 2014. For more information, including how to nominate, visit: www.education.gov.au/Australian-vocational-student-prize.