The Casey Tech School will soon be more high-tech than ever, thanks to an Andrews Labor Government boost to support Victorian Tech Schools to buy new equipment and deliver more innovative STEM learning programs.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced that Casey Tech School will share in $4.18 million through the 2021-22 Tech School Equipment Renewal Fund, helping them invest in cutting-edge equipment to help secondary students build their skills in science, technology, engineering and maths – preparing them for the jobs of the future.

Casey Tech School will purchase new 3D printers to enable all students to create their own designs in full-colour with transparency, a full Pantone range and variable rigidity and flexibility in various programs. The microscope will enhance students’ ability to explore, visualise and photograph a variety of crystals. Students use manipulating techniques, technologies and processes to conceptualise, plan and design an artwork, which can then be used on clothing or homeware materials. The Furhat social robot will be used in the Health and Medical Technology industry focus area. This social robot, with vision and speech recognition, and head and facial gestures can be customised by students using two coding languages. Students use their experience with the Furhat robot to analyse and reflect on how people use social mechanisms to interact with each other.

The Labor Government invested $128 million to establish the state’s 10 Tech Schools, which give students the opportunity to work on real-world problems alongside industry and subject experts using the latest technology like virtual reality, robotics, 3D printers and other technologies.

The Government has continued to invest in these nation-leading education hubs to help students go from strength to strength and prepare for their future job market.

Equipment no longer required by Tech Schools is distributed to nearby secondary schools and TAFE providers to further support students’ education and advance their skills.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino

“We know our fastest-growing industries and occupations need advanced STEM skills – and our Tech Schools make sure Victorian students have access to the technology to build the skills they need in the jobs of the future.”

“We’re proud to be supporting our future workforce by investing in the high-tech equipment that makes STEM so engaging, challenging students to tackle real-life problems.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“I can’t wait to see Casey Tech School’s new equipment up and running – these investments will help to deliver world-class STEM education in Victorian schools and get students ready for the workforce of the future.”