Engineer course a first

Newton Moore Senior High School officially launched its ground-breaking new engineering course on Friday.

The school will be the first in regional WA to introduce the course which will give Year 11 and 12 students a head start in engineering and related fields.

Newton Moore head of science Lorraine Ellis said it was another great achievement from the school that prides itself on science.

‘‘It’s great news for students at our school and it means we are continually able to offer them a really high level of education,’’ Mrs Ellis said.

‘‘It’s not just for university bound students, with pathways available for TAFE and the workforce.’’

Mrs Ellis said the course would help fill the large shortage of engineers nationwide.

‘‘Universities are only pumping out about 600 graduates each year compared to the 1700 jobs advertised so we really have to lift the profile of sciences in the community,’’ she said.

Bunbury MLA John Castrilli said the course would be a massive benefit to the Greater Bunbury region. ‘‘The school’s initiative in off e r ing an eng ine e r ing cour s e really is a win for students in our area and also an important part of the long-term future of our region,’’ Mr Castrilli said.

‘‘Students from country areas are more likely to return to work in those areas after finishing their studies, which is an important part of maintaining a strong workforce.

‘‘Being able to study a specific engineering unit, as well as highlevel maths and science, will give students a great foundation for further engineering-related studies either at university or TAFE level.

‘‘We often hear that people in regional areas don’t get the same opportunities as people living in capital cities. But with the innovation that schools like Newton Moore are showing, we can help narrow that gap.’’

The course will start in 2013.