Schooled in cool tech

Year 10 Wyndham College students Ben Manzie and Philip Taroy looking at drones. Picture: Joe Mastroianni

A virtual reality area, robots and a high-tech lab complete with a 3D laser printer will school the next generation using cutting-edge technology.

That’s just some of the features in the new Wyndham Tech School, which officially opened its doors on Monday.

The multi-million dollar facility, at Victoria University’s Werribee campus, includes design studios and simulation and collaboration hubs fitted out with state-of-the-art technology to give secondary school students advanced education and training in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Students from 18 Wyndham partner schools – including Baden Powell P-9 College, Wyndham Central Secondary College and the Islamic College of Melbourne – will be able to use audio visual and virtual reality facilities and high-tech STEM equipment to experiment and develop projects, and design wearable technology.

The hands-on programs are aligned with industries predicted to experience economic and employment growth.

 

 

School director Brenda Frisk said she was keen for the school to bridge the gap between education and industry.

“What’s unique about tech schools is we’re that central hub where we can speak the language with the industry, we speak the language with education, and there’s so many possibilities and opportunities available by working together,” Ms Frisk said.

Education Minister James Merlino said the Wyndham Tech School would form an important link between schools, TAFEs, universities and industry.

“We need students to be ready for the jobs of the future and that’s why we’re investing in tech schools so they can get the hands-on learning with technology they need,” Mr Merlino said.