Chief executive officer Craig Randazzo said Skillset Senior College would open its doors to Year 10 students in 2015 with the establishment of an innovative, individualised-learning focused secondary school.

Since news of the school was launched, Mr Randazzo said Skillset has been flooded with enquiries from parents and prospective teachers wanting to know more about the college.

He said the college will be based on the Alesco learning model created by the training organisation WEA Hunter, and will feature an adult learning environment, initially catering for up to 34 Year 10 students from term one.

Maximum class sizes will be set at no more than 17 students, with three teachers on staff to cater for a total of 34 students in the first year of operation

“We are approved by the NSW Board of Studies to offer Year 10 in our first year. Our aim then is to apply for approval to deliver Years 11 and 12 from 2016, providing a complete alternative senior school for the Bathurst district,” he said.

Mr Randazzo said the college would be different to other schools, thanks to its approach with the Alesco model.

“Smaller class sizes, individual learning plans and partnerships with a range ofcommunity support organisations will work with the school to provide a holistic school experience,” he said

And unlike other schools there will be no detention or uniforms, instead offering young adults a different school environment.

Mr Randazzo described it like a “space between school and TAFE”.

Like other high schools, the college will cover Stage Five of the NSW Curriculum, covering the core subjects like maths, science, English and geography. 

Outside these core subjects the school has developed partnerships with TAFE so students can study a massive range of subjects. Enrolment applications are now being taken. Call Skillset on 6330 1400.