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SchoolTech
SchoolTech is an innovative, award-winning initiative between TAFE Queensland Cairns campus and Woree State High School. The program allows students to study for their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), as well as two Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications while at high school.
Get a head start on your career
SchoolTech is designed to give you the skills you need to get a head start in the workforce. You'll get to develop real world skills by completing work placements and/or securing an apprenticeship or traineeship as part of your high school studies.
Study areas
The program is available in Cairns and offers the following study areas:
- Resources, infrastructure and construction
- Electrical and construction or plumbing
- Construction and plumbing
- Engineering and maritime
- Engineering (metal fabrication) and automotive vocational preparation
- Engineering (diesel fitting) and automotive vocational preparation
Our SchoolTech partner
Download the course guide
Learn more about the subject information, available qualifications, QCE credits, workwear/uniform requirements and more with the SchoolTech course guide.
My TAFE Queensland training has given me the knowledge and skills I need in the workplace, and it has also boosted my confidence to continue to build on my learning to become a fully qualified light vehicle mechanic.
Joining the SchoolTech program in 2018 was the best decision I ever made. I don't feel that traditional schooling would have given me the same opportunities and experiences.
I never thought I’d like school, but when I came to SchoolTech I loved it immediately. It’s so much fun, I love going to class and sometimes I don’t want to leave school at the end of the day.
Entry requirements and application process
In order to apply for the SchoolTech program you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- have successfully completed Year 10 or equivalent,
- be at least 15 years of age, and
- demonstrate a minimum standard in literacy and numeracy.
It will also be considered an advantage if you've already completed some work experience in your chosen study area.
To apply you'll need to complete an expression of interest form and attend an interview.
Students and parents/guardians will be required to sign and adhere to the SchoolTech Responsible Behaviour Plan and to the rules governing student behaviour.
Timetables and duration
Orientation and placement
The first day of study will be considered orientation day and work experience placement will commence in week three, one day per week.
First semester
During Semester 1 students attend SchoolTech at TAFE Queensland four days per week with one day allocated as work experience placement.
Semesters two to four
During the remaining three semesters students attend SchoolTech at TAFE Queensland three days per week with two days allocated as work experience placement.
School subjects vs placement
School subjects are timetabled around work experience placement to avoid conflicting with class time. This ensures a smooth transition from school to work.
Shoreline
Shoreline provides eligible SchoolTech students who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander with an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of their Elders and look after Country. Students who are passionate about the ocean and a career in ecotourism are encouraged to apply.
All applicants will be required to attend an interview with teachers from the course area. Courses will only proceed if there are sufficient participants.
Support services
TAFE Queensland offers a wide range of student support services that SchoolTech students are able to access. In addition to this, Woree State High School also provides SchoolTech students with access to a guidance officer, school nurse, youth worker and school-based police officer.
Information for employers
As an employer, you can benefit from SchoolTech students undertaking work experience at your business at no cost to you. This will help you determine if the SchoolTech student is suitable for a future apprenticeship or traineeship in your business.