The Gippsland Tech School will soon be more high-tech than ever, thanks to an Andrews Labor Government boost to support Victorian Tech Schools to buy new equipment and deliver more innovative STEM learning programs.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced Gippsland Tech School will share in $4.18 million through the 2021-22 Tech School Equipment Renewal Fund, helping them invest in cutting-edge equipment to help secondary students build their skills in science, technology, engineering and maths – preparing them for the jobs of the future.

Gippsland Tech School will use their ERF funding to assist with strengthening their partnerships with local schools and expose students to local industry. One industry area that Gippsland Tech School is focusing on, through its collaboration with Casey Tech School and its partnership with its host TAFE Gippsland, is Science. This equipment, like the UV visible spectrophotometer and temperature metre, will enable students to explore more opportunities in general Science, VCE Chemistry and Biology. Prior to this funding, students would have to travel to Melbourne to use this type of equipment.

The Labor Government invested $128 million to establish the state’s 10 Tech Schools, which give students the opportunity to work on real-world problems alongside industry and subject experts using the latest technology like virtual reality, robotics, 3D printers and other technologies.

The Government has continued to invest in these nation-leading education hubs to help students go from strength to strength and prepare for their future job market.

Equipment no longer required by Tech Schools is distributed to nearby secondary schools and TAFE providers to further support students’ education and advance their skills.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino

“We know our fastest-growing industries and occupations need advanced STEM skills – and our Tech Schools make sure Victorian students have access to the technology to build the skills they need in the jobs of the future.”

“We’re proud to be supporting our future workforce by investing in the high-tech equipment that makes STEM so engaging, challenging students to tackle real-life problems.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“It’s fantastic to see regional schools like Gippsland Tech receive funding for new Chemistry and Biology equipment, which will help the school as they educate and prepare students for new jobs and emerging technologies.”

“Not only does this funding help to deliver world-class STEM education for Victorian students, it’s also a huge win for regional students, who will now be able to access modern equipment without having to travel to Melbourne.”