We take you inside Findon Technical College, where high school education meets high-tech, hands-on learning for the jobs of tomorrow.
Findon Technical College is ushering in a new era for education. This $36 million facility, the first of five technical colleges across South Australia, offers students a direct pathway to fulfilling careers in some of the state’s fastest-growing industries.
What makes Findon Technical College special?
Opened at the start of 2024 and co-located with Findon High School, the college provides students from years 10 to 12 the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities that mimic real-world workplaces. Seriously, check out the walk-through video – some of the spaces are amazingly real-looking!
Students complete their SACE while embarking on career paths in one of the college’s three specialist industry training programs – early childhood and education, advanced manufacturing and engineering, and health and social support.
Passionate students, bright futures
“We’ve got students choosing to come to a technical college to complete their schooling and to realise their dreams,” says Luke Northcote, Findon Technical College Lead. He says these students are motivated and eager to gain the real-world skills employers crave.
“Our students are here because they’re passionate,” Luke says. “They’ve undergone a rigorous process to confirm this is their career path and what they want to do post-school.”
Hands-on learning: Where theory meets reality
At Findon Tech, immersive, project-based learning replaces dusty textbooks and outdated lectures. Students apply theories by engineering solutions to industry-based problems, caring for patients in a simulated hospital, or designing solutions to real-life childhood behavioural challenges.
Rory Frichot, a student in the advanced manufacturing and engineering stream, values this hands-on approach: “It’s really handy that we have the best tools up to industry standard, and we get to work with them and be ready for the workforce.”
Tailored education for individual passions
Findon Tech’s teaching is all about flexibility, allowing students to tailor their education to their passions and career goals. Luke says the students still follow the Australian Curriculum, but it’s integrated into problem-based learning. “Instead of separate English, maths or drama classes, they learn core subjects through their specialised streams so it’s all wrapped up in problem-based learning,” he says.
Mackenzie Steer Slater, an early childhood education student, appreciates the direct connection between her studies and her future career: “All of your work is being combined with something you want to do. That’s why I really like it here.”
A school where the staff have your back!
Luke is also proud of the unique way students are supported through their programs with coaching and mentoring. “Through all of our industry training programs, our students receive mentoring every week to make sure that they’re on track with their learning and that their wellbeing is okay,” he says.
Ashlee Pocock, a health stream student, finds the college a “perfect fit”. “There’s more flexibility and opportunities here, and you feel more included. Your voice is more heard here than at a mainstream school.”
“Even after students leave Findon Technical College for work or further study, we provide support and check-ins during their first year to ensure a smooth transition,” says Luke. “Supporting them beyond graduation is a crucial part of what we offer, because we know that first year out of school is where things can get wobbly.”
Industry partnerships: the secret sauce
Collaboration with industry leaders is key to Findon Tech’s success. These partnerships provide students with invaluable real-world experience through guest lectures, workshops, internships, and job shadowing opportunities.
“We want our young people to engage with industry, gain real-world experience, and develop skills that make them highly sought-after employees,” says Luke. Partners include BAE Systems Australia, Liebherr, Axiom Precision Manufacturing, Helping Hand Aged Care, Southern Cross Care, Goodstart Early Learning and Precious Cargo.
A new era of education
As the first of the five planned technical colleges, Findon is ushering in a bold new era for high school education in South Australia. It prioritises practical skills, industry partnerships, and personalised learning to fast-track students into the jobs they want and fuel the state’s economy. This cutting-edge institution isn’t just about preparing students for jobs – it’s about launching them into fulfilling careers that contribute to a thriving South Australia.
Findon Technical College bridges the gap between school and the workforce, addressing critical skills shortages and equipping young people with the technical expertise needed for future workplaces. Luke says the majority of students head straight into apprenticeships or jobs, while others go on to further study at university, or at one of the College’s key training partners, TAFE SA and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation.
Technical colleges like Findon are also low-cost options: They’re government-funded, covering all program fees, laptops and uniforms. Students only need to pay the material and services charge.
The importance of technical colleges
South Australia faces a skills mismatch, with relatively high youth unemployment and a shortage of skilled workers. Many students are interested in pursuing vocational careers while still in school, but options are limited.
New colleges in high-demand areas are opening soon. Port Augusta Technical College will open next year, with Tonsley, Mount Gambier and Modbury Heights to welcome students in 2026.
Find out more about Findon Technical College and how to apply here.
