An $8 million vocational school run by the YMCA has opened in Mango Hill, offering secondary students an alternative education program to mainstream schooling.
YMCA Vocational School Mango Hill Campus provides an opportunity for young people who may not thrive in conventional classrooms to obtain a Queensland Certificate of Education and gain vocational certificates in a supportive environment.
Gary Adsett, who oversees all eight YMCA Vocational School campuses across South East Queensland, said the new Mango Hill campus is already empowering 110 students in grade 7-12 on their journey to employment.
“The YMCA Vocational School focuses on the wellbeing of students and offers them a unique supportive learning environment that focus on their individual needs,” Mr Adsett said.
“At Mango Hill, we swap structured rows of desks and a strict curriculum with more flexible and youthful learning spaces that encourage participation and engagement in class.
“With a mix of typical high school subjects, certificate courses and other supportive programs like counselling, art therapy and emotional development lessons, our students are able to thrive and find a career pathway they want to pursue.”
Students enrolled will have the opportunity to select a vocational pathway to follow, with options like hairdressing, automotive, hospitality, engineering and more.
“The fantastic part about our Mango Hill school is that the Y also runs an Op Shop and Hair Salon onsite, offering students more opportunities when completing certificate training.
“The facility is also home to the YMCA Mango Hill Community Centre, offering modern spaces for hire spaces and events that locals can enjoy outside of school hours.”
Over $8.8 million has been invested into building the Vocational School, with the State Government pledging $1.85 million of funding to see the education resource delivered to the Moreton Bay community.
The YMCA operates Vocational Schools in North Lakes, Acacia Ridge, Kingston, Ipswich, Redlands and Mango Hill. Enrolments for these schools are open all year round.
ABOUT THE Y
The Y is one of the largest youth organisations, both in Brisbane and around the world. We believe in the power of inspired young people, and strive to help people develop in body, mind and spirit. the Y Brisbane offers a range of services within South East Queensland in the areas of fitness and recreation, child care, education, community and youth centres, hospitality, housing and social impact. Find out more at ymcabrisbane.org.
MEDIA CONTACT
Jane Barr-Thomson
Marketing and Communications Manager
E: jane.barr-thomson@ymcabrisbane.org
M: 0400 773 340
