Parents of local high school students are backing the Noosa Education and Training Alliance (NETA) proposal to boost local employment prospects through training for ‘jobs of the future’.
NETA is currently investigating flexible training models to ready the local workforce with the capabilities needed within tomorrow’s workplaces, such as advanced digital skills.
The Alliance is currently surveying the local community to gather their ideas, with strong support for the concept among parents.
NETA representative, Ross Hepworth explained their research to date pointed to a series of problems and opportunities, evidenced by parent’s responses.
“Many parents are disappointed their children need to leave Noosa to seek the study and work opportunities that aren’t sufficiently available locally,” Mr Hepworth said.
“While this situation isn’t unique to Noosa, NETA’s vision is to provide pathways into high-value work through a Future Skills Learning Hub, opening up more local opportunities for employers and employees alike.
“The concept is to match local talent with the current and future needs of our regional businesses, while continually upskilling our talent through short courses offered through the hub.
“Parents strongly support the proposition of providing the ‘tech’ and digital skills needed in modern workplaces, here in Noosa, and working with local, future focused businesses.”
Local parent, Malcolm Mitchell endorsed the need for more opportunity for young people.
“The Noosa community can’t only be made up of retirees, middle aged business owners and professionals,” Malcolm said.
“That leaves little prospect for our young adults. It needs to be a place to start your journey to success as well.”
Local parent, Melanie Bublyk, explained her interest in the project.
“As a parent with children who have endured challenges with their high school education, providing more local training and work choice would be greatly welcomed in the community,” Melanie said.
Noosa Shire Council economic development spokesperson, Carolyn Bullen said Council strongly supported the skills hub proposal.
“This project can help strengthen and diversify the local economy by developing current business and attracting new enterprise through the quality of our local talent,” Carolyn said.
“The Future Skills Learning Hub would be a place for all locals who want to ensure their skills are always relevant within rapidly changing workplaces, driven by technological innovation.”
Local business and residents are encouraged to support the research through completion of the short survey at: www.noosa.qld.gov.au (enter ‘future skills’ into search function).
