THE NSW Government has moved to raise the education profile of agriculture through a new Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Education in the Hawkesbury.

Hurlstone Agricultural High School. (Photo: NSW Government)

The government has also announced new selective streams of agricultural education at Richmond High School, and upgrades to the existing Hurlstone Agricultural High School at Glenfield.

NSW Farmers president James Jackson said it was good news for the future of agriculture, particularly the recognition of the importance of science and technology in the industry.

“The announcement of a new model for agricultural education in NSW will go a long way in improving access to high quality education for future generations and underpin our goal for agriculture to become the next $100 billion sector by 2030. It is also pleasing that the future of Hurlstone as an agricultural high school at Glenfield is also now secure,” he said.

“Farming has always been a highly skilled endeavour. With access to ever expanding technology, and innovation, and the potential to value add at the farm gate, agriculture is a sector that is attracting young minds and new thinking. This new model will enable even more of the best of the best to choose a career in the sector.”

Mr Jackson said the NSW Government had introduced a compulsory agriculture and food unit in the Years 7 and 8 technology syllabus that had helped to reconnect students with the source of the foods they eat every day.

“The industry is also doing its part. NSW Farmers members across the state regularly welcome school groups to their farms, reconnecting city students with the source of their food,” he said.

“As a foundation member of the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA), NSW Farmers supports teachers of agriculture to develop, share, and access curriculum resources.”

Mr Jackson said these new academically selective pathways through school to TAFE and University created a vital link for students to continue their studies and choose a rewarding career in agriculture as a farmer, agronomist, agricultural economist or food technologist.

Source: NSW Farmers

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