The Geelong Tertiary Futures Program (GTFP)
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GTFP is an exciting initiative that engages Year 9 students in education by providing an in-depth preview of a broad range of tertiary studies. The program is delivered by The Gordon TAFE in partnership with Geelong secondary schools.
The flagship program is now widely recognised as an example of good VET pathways delivery and engagement and the Career Previews remain highly successful, with high engagement and positive feedback from both students and teachers.
Aims of the program
- To better equip Year 9 students to identify education and employment opportunities as they map their future pathways
- To improve students’ understanding that continuing education is essential for their future economic and employment aspirations and general wellbeing
- To help students build awareness of the career options available to them and what employers want
- To increase levels of educational attainment and school retention
- To promote a culture of lifelong learning.
Program highlights
The program combines theoretical and practical learning to equip students with an understanding of vocational education and build essential skills for the world of work. Students will undertake two non-accredited online WorkSkills units in Work, Health and Safety and Communications.
As part of the Communications unit, students will craft their resumes preparing them for real-world job applications. This theory component challenges students with assessment tasks that enhance their organisational skills and attention to detail, preparing them for the demands of tertiary education.
For the practical learning component, students participate in a half-day induction at The Gordon followed by five Career Previews spread over three days. Students select from 23 options available at either the City or East Campus of The Gordon.
Student survey results show that:
- 96% have a significantly improved knowledge of potential pathway opportunities
- 2% feel more engaged with future study and/or work opportunities
- 80% feel better prepared to plan for a future career
- 81% feel more motivated to continue their education.
Program format in 2025
- Approximately 1800 students from 13 secondary schools in the Geelong region will participate in the program in 2025.
- Students undertake a blended online and face-to-face learning model
- In their home school students will complete two non-accredited units in Work Health and Safety and Communication to build their employability skills.
- Students select five Career Previews from approximately 23 different vocational options. The options are very broad in scope and include Graphic Design, Horticulture, Early Childhood Care and Carpentry to name a few.
The schools participating in 2025 include:
Bellarine Secondary College, Belmont High School, Geelong High School, Grovedale College, Newcomb Secondary College, Surf Coast Secondary College, Northern Bay College, Western Heights College, Bannockburn, Matthew Flinders Girls School, North Geelong, Lara Secondary College.