The college was established in 1993 to provide education and entry-level vocational training for students of all ages in a mature learning environment. The college is located on the coast at Port Kembla and attracts students from the Illawarra and neighbouring regions as well as further afield.
Curriculum: The college offers an extensive range of subjects presented in a flexible manner to accommodate full-time and part-time students. Students are able to select a traditional HSC program and/or vocational program that will provide a foundation for further education, training or employment.
An extensive range of NSW Board-developed courses is available. In addition, the college offers the most extensive range of vocational courses in the Illawarra district including Hospitality, Retail, Business Services (Office), Construction, Metals and Information Technology. The vocational courses offer work placement, links with other educational providers, accreditation at local TAFE and part-time traineeships.
Welfare and personal development: Student support is offered in a mature way, with all staff members of the college providing welfare support for the students. Staff members are supported by a welfare team consisting of a counsellor, careers adviser, support teacher (learning difficulties) and student advisers. The college also has a strong student support network with timetabled support sessions and individual case management.
Special features: A Year 10 certificate program has been highly successful in helping re-entry and mature-age students upgrade their skills and prepare for further education, training or work. The college has won numerous awards at district, state and national level, including the Minister’s Award for school achievement and the Director-General’s Award for integrating education and training. The college operates from Monday to Thursday (four-day week).