Newcastle is to receive an innovative new TAFE NSW SkillsPoints headquarters as part of the NSW Government’s push to create the workforce of the future by collaborating with business and industry.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald MLC confirmed Newcastle as the location of one of the SkillsPoints headquarters. They have been designed to ensure TAFE NSW builds on its reputation as a world-class vocational education and training provider.

“SkillsPoints are intersection points where TAFE NSW will work with business and industry to develop curriculum and training to provide Australians with the skills needed for the jobs of the future,” Scot said.

“Our new SkillsPoints will focus on developing curriculum and training for the booming manufacturing robotics and science industry, working to help prevent future skills shortages in jobs such as maintenance engineers, welders, fitter mechanics and gas production workers.”

The first SkillsPoints HQ – Innovative Manufacturing, Robotics and Science – will open in Newcastle in September. It is expected between eight to 15 staff will be required to develop and lead the program.

Assistant Minister for Skills, Adam Marshall said Newcastle was an obvious choice for the new SkillsPoints HQ.

“Whether in a classroom, on-site, online or a combination of these, SkillsPoints training and resources will be tailored to industry needs and demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to ensuring the same high-quality, industry relevant content anywhere from the city to rural and regional NSW,” Adam said.

“Newcastle and the Hunter was the obvious choice to lead the innovation, manufacturing, robotics and science SkillsPoints. The Hunter is a leader in these fields. The University of Newcastle is a proven collaborator in this area. The defence industry needs highly skilled staff.”

IMAGE | A new SkillsPoints HQ will open its doors in Newcastle in September.