Students with Susan and the famous Lego man. (L-R): Hamish (Carpentry), Noah (Cabinet Making), Summer (Electrical) and Kalan (Carpentry).

THE role of young workers in tackling the housing shortage was on the agenda during a recent visit by the Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, to CathWest Innovation College at Emu Plains.

Ms Templeman met with teachers and students to see firsthand how they are equipping students with the skills and confidence to pursue careers in priority sectors like carpentry, electrical and cabinet making.

Principal Paul Stenning, and Assistant Principal Samantha Boreham outlined how CathWest Innovation College students are completing their HSC whilst also building practical skills via their School-Based Apprenticeships.

Year 12 student leaders Hamish, Noah, Summer and Kalan spoke confidently about the skills they are learning with local employers in their chosen fields, in a blended model that sees them spending time at school, time in the workforce, and time learning skills through TAFE.

“Here at the foot of the Blue Mountains we have CathWest offering the best of both worlds for their students,” says Ms Templeman.

“With housing supply a key focus for the government, it’s important to encourage the next generation of tradies building their skills.

“What I really admire is the opportunity all students have to explore the different trades. Here at Emu Plains they have metals, engineering, automotive, carpentry, electrotechnology and Brick and Block Workshops right here on site.

“Emu Plains students also have access to additional options offered at the Loyola (Mount Druitt) campus. They range from STEM lab and media room for podcasting, animation, and coding, through to hairdressing, commercial cooking and Early Childhood education.

“I’m constantly impressed by the high calibre of our schools and our students across the Macquarie electorate.”