A group of 33 Sydney Catholic Schools’ students are poised for early entry into engineering and information technology (IT) degrees through The University of Technology Sydney’s Wanago Program. 

Year 11 and 12 students who complete a NESA-accredited HSC Engineering or Information Technology elective through the program are offered direct entry into undergraduate courses including civil and mechanical engineering and software design.

SKILLED FOR THE FUTURE

According to a September 2021 report by the Ai Group, nationwide skills shortages are currently highest in STEM-related fields.

These include in Engineering, and in ICT where security specialist and program manager roles are projected to grow by 26.6% in the next three years.*

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Director of Education and Research, Dr Kate O’Brien, said the Wanango opportunity was just one example of university-level partnerships at Sydney Catholic Schools that broaden students’ learning and give them clear pathways to further study.

The problem-solving, collaboration and critical thinking skills emphasised in Wanago electives are also in keeping with the ethos that underpins all learning at Sydney Catholic Schools.

“We want to empower our students to make a difference and to be adaptable to the needs of their communities and future workplaces,” Dr O’Brien said.

“Students in the Wanago Program will be well placed to fill critical skills shortages while pursuing disciplines they love” – Dr Kate O’Brien

“We’re very excited to see the innovative projects they imagine and develop as part of their learning at UTS.”

Wanago program manager Emaly Black said the curriculum was filled with project-based enrichment activities that expose students to industry and to UTS student societies where they can see innovation in action.

“This is perfect for students who enjoy learning by doing,” …