This award recognises excellence in schools that are developing innovative and new mechanisms for encouraging VET pathways in their schools so that their models and programs can be publicised and shared with schools across the state.
Meet the finalists in the VET Innovation for Schools Award category for the 2026 South Australian Training Awards!
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Designed specifically for students with disability, Golden Grove High School’s Certificate I Horticulture Pilot is redefining inclusive VET in schools.
The use of the school environment as a live training site, where students plan, develop and maintain gardens, embedding practical skills through authentic, meaningful work is an example of innovation in practice.
Developed in partnership with industry and a specialist training provider, the innovative and inclusive VET pathway combines accredited learning with highly personalised support.
This approach is supported by individualised learning plans and close collaboration between teachers, support staff, families and industry partners.
The pilot has delivered strong engagement and outcomes, with most participants completing the qualification and progressing into further training or employment. By removing barriers and reimagining delivery, Golden Grove High School is expanding access to VET and creating inclusive pathways to future careers.
Seaford Secondary College is delivering an innovative, collaborative VET pathway through its First Nations Civil Construction program. This pilot brought together multiple schools, industry partners and training providers to deliver an intensive, four‑week program aligned to Certificate II in Civil Construction.
The integration of classroom learning, hands-on workshops and live construction site experience, provide students with exposure to real environments rather than simulated training. The program also embeds culturally responsive support, with dedicated mentoring to strengthen engagement, wellbeing and outcomes for First Nations learners.
This approach has delivered strong results, with a 94 per cent completion rate and clear transitions into further training, apprenticeships and employment pathways.
By combining cross-sector collaboration, authentic industry experience and targeted support, Seaford Secondary College is creating meaningful, scalable pathways into a priority workforce sector.
Through its flagship Electrotechnology program, Western Technical College is delivering innovative, industry-aligned pathways for secondary students across South Australia.
Its model integrates SACE with nationally recognised qualifications, enabling students to complete school while building trade-ready skills.
Featuring a purpose-built training environment, developed through a $5 million expansion, the setting mirrors real industrial workplaces and supports learning across high-demand sectors including maritime, defence and construction.
The Electrotechnology program is designed as a direct pathway into emerging industries, combining advanced technical training with a strong focus on employability through its Work Ready Framework.
Through strong partnerships with TAFE SA and industry, and flexible delivery models, Western Technical College is enabling large numbers of students to transition successfully into further training and employment, building a skilled workforce for South Australia’s future industries.