Exploring the Automotive Industry – Local Opportunities for NASSSA Students

In the last week of Term 1, a class of NASSSA students studying the Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology hit the road to explore a variety of workplaces and gain valuable insight into career pathways and local employment opportunities.

The day began at Auto Plus SA in Munno Para, where students experienced the inner workings of a professional workshop and learned what employers value most in an apprentice. Discussions focused on how the industry is changing, the importance of attitude and work ethic, and what it’s like working in a small business environment.

Next, students visited Repco Auto Parts, where they explored the range of roles that support the mechanical trade—from parts interpreting to customer service and logistics. This stop highlighted alternative career paths and the many ways the broader industry supports workshop operations.

To wrap up the day, the group toured the City of Playford’s Mechanical Yard, where they were introduced to heavy-duty vehicle maintenance and the world of diesel mechanics. Staff shared their diverse career journeys and gave students a sense of how mechanical roles contribute to a larger team within council operations.

With two more industry tours scheduled for May, students are gaining a well-rounded understanding of the Automotive Industry and an opportunity to explore local employment opportunities.

These experiences, made possible by supportive local employers, also included the opportunity for students to sign up for work experience - an exciting step toward gaining hands-on skills.

We’re proud of our students for asking great questions, showing curiosity, and making the most of these valuable learning opportunities!

Uni Hub Playford Launch – Supporting Local Students into Higher Education

Representing the Northern Adelaide State Secondary Schools' Alliance (NASSSA), Director Michele Malonagos attended the official launch of Uni Hub Playford at the Playford Civic Centre Library in Elizabeth along with students from Northern Adelaide Senior College. The students were pleased to be part of the occasion and appreciated the opportunity to explore the new study hub and speak with representatives from Adelaide University, Flinders University, TAFE SA, City of Playford, Mayor, Glenn Docherty and Senator, Penny Wong.

“Uni Hub Playford is an exciting and much-needed initiative that will provide Northern Adelaide students with the resources, support and connections they need to succeed in higher education...” – Michele Malonagos, NASSSA Director

Uni Hub Playford is set to make a real difference for local students by removing common barriers to higher education - like long commutes and limited public transport - and offering a modern, welcoming environment with tailored academic and wellbeing support. The temporary location is now open, with a permanent site at TAFE SA Elizabeth to follow in August 2025.

NASSSA is proud to be part of this partnership and look forward to seeing the positive impact of Uni Hub Playford on students in our community.

Digital Technologies Professional Development Day at UniSA

UniSA recently hosted the first of four professional development days planned for 2025, bringing together NASSSA Digital Technologies and Career Development leaders for an inspiring day of learning and connection.

Participants explored various learning pathways into the IT industry, including full-time and part-time study options, and exciting opportunities in Software Engineering apprenticeships. A highlight was hearing directly from current apprentices, who shared their positive experiences and the key skill sets that have helped them succeed.

Industry experts provided valuable insights into the growing demand for skills in data, business analytics, and data science. They also discussed innovative approaches to teaching and assessment, emphasizing the importance of balancing technical content with essential soft skills.

A tour of UniSA’s Project LIVE facilities offered a look into the future of immersive technology, with hands-on experiences in AR and VR.

We’re excited for what’s to come in the next sessions!

NASSSA VET & Careers Awards 2024

The 2024 NASSSA VET & Careers Awards evening was an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of VET students across our 12 secondary schools. Families, trainers and community members attended the auspicious occasion, encouraging students to continue to strive for excellence and reach their goals. An Acknowledgement of Country began the evening, presented by Kaurna Plains School students. 

The prestigious NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year Award has been won by three students this year. Each of these impressive students was first nominated for a Class Achievement and Commitment Award and subsequently won the Industry award associated with their course.

Paralowie R-12 School student, Rhylee Lyon-Glenie, is recognised and acknowledged as a mature and caring young man who will be a true asset to any future employer. Rhylee successfully completed Certificate ll in Electrotechnology (Career Start) in 2024, which was hosted at Paralowie R-12 School and delivered by PEER Education Employment & Training Ltd. The Electrotechnology Industry Award is sponsored by PEER and the NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year Award is sponsored by LAI Group.  

Lily Jarrett, a Craigmore High School student, has successfully completed the first year of Certificate ll in Automotive Servicing Technology in 2024, hosted by Playford International College. She is recognised and acknowledged for demonstrated diligence, dedication to her studies and excellent teamwork skills. The Automotive Industry Award is sponsored by Motor Trade Association and the NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year Award, sponsored by LAI Group.

Salisbury High School student, Godswill Umeh, is the third winner of the NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year Award. This award, along with the Construction Industry Award, is sponsored by Master Builders Association of Australia. Godswill successfully completed a Certificate ll in Construction Pathways and has shown a keen interest in the Construction Industry as a highly engaged learner, exhibiting strong leadership skills.

Congratulations to these brilliant young people!

Acknowledgement of Successful Projects

Two projects this year, Year 9 Health Precinct Tours (nominated as a finalist for the Public Education Excellence in Collaborative Partnerships Award) and Year 12 Integrated Learning – Nursing and Midwifery (winner of the SA Health Premier's Award for Healthcare for Future Generations), have showcased the significant value of collaboration between NASSSA and the Northern Adelaide Health and Wellbeing Partnership.

Louise McGuire (Acting Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery), Susan Dyer, (Acting Director of Nursing Midwifery – Professional Practice) and Sarah Hill (Acting Nursing Director) as part of and on behalf the mentoring team, were presented with certificates of appreciation for their outstanding contribution to the project, providing authentic learning opportunities for students and a rich experience for mentors.

Other major award winners include NASSSA School-based Apprentice of the Year, William Brown, who is working as an apprentice Engineer at Ahrns Handling Equipment Pty Ltd. This award was generously sponsored by Mas National. 

Other major award winners include: 

Kayla Johnson, the NASSSA Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander VET Learner of the Year, completed their Certificate II in Salon Assistant this year. She has consistently shown commitment to her school and course studies and developed great skills, paving the way for a promising future.

The NASSSA VET Success Through Adversity Acknowledgement was presented to Amelia Ford, Daniel Hudson, Mohammad Nazari, Mary Slater, Mike Slade and Charlee Howell-Simpson (absent were Summer Brown, Bella Cleary and Mexhid Paloja). Students who received this acknowledgement were successful in their VET learning, despite encountering difficult circumstances outside of school life. NASSSA Director, Penny Chancellor commented, ‘These students possess exceptional character, are inspiring and tenacious. They will be our future changemakers. They’ve shown such strength of character and commitment …’

Industry Award winners were: 

Lily Jarrett completing Certificate ll in Automotive Servicing Technology 

Ethan Cluse completing Certificate ll in Construction Pathways

Xander Jefferson-Ellard completing Certificate ll in Construction Pathways 

Godswill Umeh completing Certificate ll in Construction Pathways 

Thomas Cooper completing Stackable Advanced Carpentry Safety Skills

Nathan Petrie completing Certificate ll in Plumbing

Nikki Thompson completing Certificate ll in Salon Assistant

Angel-Rose Masters-Cartledge completing Certificate ll in Food Processing (Bakery focus)

Rhylee Lyon-Glenie completing Certificate ll in Electrotechnology (Career Start)

Madison Schrader completing Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care 

Kayne Marshall completing Certificate ll in Engineering

Kenice Vine completing Certificate lll in Information Technology

Angel McCormick completing Certificate lll in Health Services Assistance

Annie Kaur completing Certificate lll in Health Services Assistance

Congratulations, to all Award recipients! 

Special thanks to our generous Award sponsors: 

GOLD 

SYC Ltd

LAI Group

Australian Child Care Career Options 

TAFE SA

City of Playford

Master Builders Association of SA

SILVER 

Adelaide Training & Employment Centre 

Calvary Central Districts Hospital

Adelaide Institute of Business & Technology

PEER Education Employment & Training Ltd

Northern Adelaide Health & Wellbeing Partnership

BRONZE 

Aimpoint RPL Pty Ltd

Baking Association of Australia

Connect 'n' Grow

Motor Trades Association 

Winner of the Premier’s Award – Health Care for Future Generations 2024

The 2024 SACE Stage 2 Integrated Learning Nursing & Midwifery Pilot, which NASSSA developed in collaboration with Northern Adelaide Health & Wellbeing Partnership, Parafield Gardens High School, UniSA, and University of Adelaide, has been recognised as winner of the Premier’s Award – Healthcare for Future Generations.

The course was developed as many students showed interest in working in Health care, especially in Nursing and Midwifery. Through simulation activities, students applied classroom theory to practical scenarios, while mentoring sessions fostered connections with Northern Adelaide Health Network, supporting the development of a sustainable, local healthcare workforce.

The successful program is being scaled up across three NASSSA schools in 2025 as Integrated Learning - Health Care Pathways.

Congratulations to all involved!

NASSSA is excited to be a finalist in the Public Education Awards 2024!

The Northern Adelaide State Secondary Schools’ Alliance (NASSSA) exemplifies collaborative leadership, enhancing student learning and pathways in Northern Adelaide public secondary schools. By pooling resources, sharing best practices, and grounding initiatives in research and evidence, NASSSA enhances student engagement and success.

The alliance emphasises equity, wellbeing, and learner agency, promoting student engagement and aspiration through collaborative efforts. Their Curriculum and Special Area Teams develop effective learning strategies, supported by community partnerships like the Northern Adelaide Health and Wellbeing Precinct, leading to impactful initiatives such as the Year 9 Precinct Tour and Year 12 Integrated Learning Health Care subject.

NASSSA’s collaborative approach has inspired engagement with stakeholders, creating innovative opportunities and informing practices across multiple sites, benefiting students and the broader community.

Year 9 Health and Wellbeing Precinct Tour

The Northern Adelaide Health & Wellbeing Partnership (NAHWP) together with the Northern Adelaide State Secondary Schools Alliance (NASSSA) offered a Career Immersion experience for Year 9 Gawler & District College, Craigmore High School and Mark Oliphant College students at the Playford Health and Wellbeing Precinct.

Students toured facilities and enjoyed the interactive activities, visiting a number of areas including Medical Records, Medicine, Patient Services, Nursing Simulation Lab, Radiation Therapy, Physiotherapy, Residential Aged Care, Occupational Therapy, Paramedics/ambulance, Midwifery, Speech Pathology, Aboriginal Health, Kitchen, Pharmacy and Podiatry. They experienced a unique opportunity in hearing from specialist medical professionals, nurses, administration and numerous other staff working within the Precinct, who generously shared aspects of their roles as well as their interesting career journeys.

Many students were surprised by the diversity of roles at the precinct, the interaction and connection between departments and professionals, and the flexible working arrangements. Having learned about the potential of employment in health care and community services, students may also consider working part time within the Precinct, whilst undertaking further study - particularly where there is an industry connection to their area of study.

The experience will enhance the students’ career readiness and knowledge of career pathways.

Year 9 students from other NASSSA schools will have the opportunity to visit the Health Precinct in the coming terms.

Digital Technologies Professional Development

NASSSA Digital Technology teachers and Career Leaders undertook professional development at UniSA, Mawson Lakes Campus, which included a tour of IT facilities and overview of UniSA IT programs. The day provided an ideal opportunity to connect secondary school IT teaching and VET with tertiary studies and employment.

Current UniSA students shared their transition experiences from secondary school to university and spoke about what drew them to undertake an IT degree and the various occupations they were now interested in pursuing.

A panel of Industry representatives from BAE Systems, SA Health, DXC and UniSA explained the type of skills being sought by employers, with non-technical skills such as good communication, problem-solving and teamwork being most desirable. A diverse range career opportunities is available in the IT industry and a wide range of work environments is also offered.

NASSSA visits BAE Systems Shipyard

The NASSSA Career Development Team enjoyed a tour of BAE Systems shipyard at Osborne, hearing about employment opportunities they can promote with students.

Of particular interest were the values and employability/transferable skills (capabilities) that BAE seek in their potential employees.

BAE Systems currently employ over 5500 people in Australia, with 48% of those in SA. The current shipbuilding project will provide many opportunities for employment here in SA over the next few decades.

Congratulations, Jamie!

Having celebrated the achievements of Jamie Matthews as NASSSA 2023 VET Student of the Year, we congratulate Jamie on her continued success in being presented the 2024 PEER VET in School, Student of the Year - Electrical award.

Jamie completed a NASSSA Certificate ll in Electrotechnology course with PEER Education Employment & Training Ltd in 2023 and began an apprenticeship with PEER Group Training in 2024.

NASSSA VET Awards 2023

The 2023 NASSSA VET Awards evening was an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of VET students across our 12 secondary schools. Families, trainers and community members attended the auspicious occasion, encouraging students to continue to strive for excellence and reach their goals. A Welcome to Country began the evening, presented by Salisbury High School student, Shayla Holloway.

Congratulations to Northern Adelaide Senior School student, Jaime, who was recognised and acknowledged as being a positive role model and someone who has taken great steps on her career pathway journey. Jaime successfully completed Certificate ll in Electrotechnology in 2023, which was hosted at Northern Adelaide Senior College and delivered by PEER Education Employment & Training Ltd. Firstly, she was nominated for a class achievement and commitment award and subsequently won the Industry Award, sponsored by PEER. Jaime was then selected as the winner of the prestigious NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year, which was sponsored by LAI Group.

Jaime has shown great leadership and communication skills, showing resilience and support for others. Having completed a work placement with LAI Industries, Jaime has been offered an opportunity for apprenticeship in 2024 with PEER group training.

Similarly, Kate Harley, won the NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year (Stage 1) sponsored by Adelaide Institute of Business & Technology, after firstly being nominated for a class achievement and commitment award for Certificate ll in Kitchen Operations, hosted at Gawler & District College B12 and delivered by Complete Hospitality Training Services; then progressing to win the Industry Award, sponsored by Baking Association of Australia.

Kate has shown herself to be a leader in the kitchen environment, is positive, committed and ready for a future in the hospitality industry.

Inspirational guest speaker, Sterling Hansen, who was the 2022 NASSSA Apprentice of the Year, shared his VET journey from school toward fulfilling his career goals. Since completing his SACE and leaving school, he has continued this apprenticeship with PEER group training at JC Energy.

Sterling attributed his accomplishments in the first instance, to having the opportunity to undertake the NASSSA VET course, Certificate ll in Electrotechnology (Career Start) in 2021. He also emphasised his determination, strong work ethic and persistence as key to his progress and success. Sterling urged students to be focussed and aim high to achieve their goals.

Other major award winners include NASSSA School-based Apprentice of the Year, Parbat Subba, who is working as an apprentice carpenter at Comace with TAFE training. This award was generously sponsored by Mas National.

Other major award winners include:

NASSSA Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander VET Learner of the Year, Shayla Holloway, who has completed Certificate ll in Retail Cosmetics this year.

The NASSSA VET Success Through Adversity Acknowledgement was presented to Abbey Savage, David Craig, Ella Clark, Kostia Eckermann, Brandon Minchin and Katelyn Wittmann (absent were Merliz Augustus, Foaud Mokdassi and Shayla Ferguson). Students who received this acknowledgement were successful in their VET learning, despite encountering difficult circumstances outside of school life. NASSSA Director, Penny Chancellor commented, ‘These students possess exceptional character, are inspiring, and tenacious and will be our future changemakers. They’ve shown such strength of character and commitment.’

Industry Award winners were:

Congratulations, to all award recipients!

Special thanks to our generous Award sponsors:

GOLD

BAE Systems Maritime Australia

MEGT

SILVER

Adelaide Institute of Business & Technology

LAI Group

Mas National

Master Builders Association of SA

PEER Education Employment & Training Ltd

Statewide Group Training

SYC Ltd

Northern Adelaide Health & Wellbeing Partnership

BRONZE

Adelaide Training & Employment Centre

Animals on Course

Australian Child Care Career Options

Baking Association of Australia

Connect 'n' Grow

Motor Trades Association

TAFE SA

Playford Health and Wellbeing Precinct Year 9 Career Workshops

The Northern Adelaide Health & Wellbeing Partnership (NAHWP) together with the Northern Adelaide State Secondary Schools Alliance (NASSSA) offered a Career Immersion experience for Year 9 Parafield Gardens High School students at the Playford Health and Wellbeing Precinct.

Students toured facilities and enjoyed the interactive activities, visiting a number of areas including records and administration, aged care, hospital wards, Occupational Therapy, ambulance, laundry, equipment supply, Aboriginal Health, kitchen, pharmacy and even the morgue. They experienced a unique opportunity in hearing from specialist medical professionals, nurses, administration and numerous other staff working within the Precinct, who generously shared aspects of their roles as well as their interesting career journeys.

Many students were surprised by the diversity of roles at the precinct, the interaction and connection between departments and professionals, and the flexible working arrangements. Having learned about the potential of employment in health care and community services, students may also consider working part time within the Precinct, whilst undertaking further study - particularly where there is an industry connection to their area of study.

The experience will enhance the students’ career readiness and knowledge of career pathways.

Just some of the tour sessions

Farewell, Anne!

The NASSSA Principals and Deputy Principals gave a fond farewell to Northern Adelaide Senior College Principal, Anne Sim, at the recent Principals’ and Deputies’ Forum ahead of her retirement at the end of this year.

The NASSSA Principals and Deputy Principals gave a fond farewell to Northern Adelaide Senior College Principal, Anne Sim, at the recent Principals’ and Deputies’ Forum ahead of her retirement at the end of this year.

NASSSA wishes Anne well in what will no doubt be an enjoyable and busy retirement ahead.

Flinders University Roadshow

Recently, a Flinders University Roadshow was hosted by Northern Sound System, offering year 11 and 12 NASSSA students an opportunity to participate in a range of informative workshops. Students were able to engage with academics and explore study areas, which will assist in making informed decisions about selecting university courses.

Focus areas were: Allied & Public Health, Engineering/Computing, Sport, Creative Arts/Industries, Psychology, Criminology, Law, Business/Accounting and Social Work.

STEM Forum

A STEM Forum, organised by the City of Salisbury, was presented to girls from nine NASSSA schools on Tuesday, 28 March, 2023. Speakers were Dr Sylvie Perreau, Chief of Sensors and Effectors Division, Defence Science Technology Group and Dr Lisa Bailey, senior Exhibition Manager, Museum of Discovery (MOD) UniSA.

The highly accomplished women spoke of being open to pursuing the many career opportunities in STEM and the need for diversity in this industry. Both encouraged the students to have confidence in their abilities and ideas; to work hard, face challenges and pursue their goals.

Student groups then visited organisations; BAE Systems, Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), Codan Limited, Topcon Positioning Systems and Saab Australia, learning about the broad career opportunities and pathways in STEM industries.

Emily, BAE Systems, spoke to students about their possible concerns at not being the best at some STEM subjects in school, and to consider studying subjects such as Art, to develop creative and problem solving skills, which can support future work in the STEM industry.

Penny Chancellor, Director, NASSSA commented: 'It was fantastic to see such a large group of young women come together to hear about, and explore, the myriad of opportunities that exist within the science and stem industries. In particular, it was challenging and insightful to hear that as Artificial Intelligence evolves (as the algorithms that sit behind it are written), we need women (and diversity) to participate in the process so that the messages we receive in community are balanced. There are powerful and exciting future opportunities available for our students, if they think outside of the box and are prepared to take up the challenge and look for problems in the world around them, that they might be able to help solve.'

NASSSA VET Awards 2022

The 2022 NASSSA VET Awards evening was an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of VET students across our 12 secondary schools. Families, trainers and community members attended the auspicious occasion, encouraging students to continue to strive for excellence and reach their goals. A Welcome to Country began the evening, with a performance by Kaurna Plains School students.

Congratulations to Gawler and District College B-12 student, Georgia, who was recognised and acknowledged as being a positive role model and someone who has taken great steps on her career pathway journey. Georgia successfully completed Certificate ll in Kitchen Operations in 2022, which was hosted at Gawler and District College B-12 and delivered by Complete Hospitality Training Skills. Firstly, she was nominated for a class award and subsequently won the Industry Award, sponsored by Complete Hospitality Skills. Georgia was then selected as the winner of the prestigious NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year, which was sponsored by Statewide Group Training.

Georgia has shown enthusiasm with great leadership and communication skills. She has risen to challenges along the way with real grit and a determination to succeed.

Similarly, Laticia Cox, won the NASSSA Vocational Education and Training Student of the Year (Stage 1) after firstly being nominated for a class award for Certificate ll in Community Services, hosted at Mark Oliphant College B-12 and delivered by Connect ‘n’ Grow; then progressing to win the Industry Award, sponsored by Connect ‘n’ Grow.

Laticia is a passionate advocate for a range of causes and her genuine care and support of others will no doubt contribute to being an outstanding youth or community services worker in future.

Inspirational guest speaker, Shoana Imaru, who was the 2019 NASSSA VET Student of the Year as well as the 2019 Australian Vocational Student of the Year, shared her life experience of being born in a refugee camp in Tanzania before migrating to Australia at age 11 with her family. In Australia, she learned English by watching children’s TV shows, later improving her English by engaging in opportunities such as joining the Paralowie R12 School debating team.

Having a strong desire to help others, Shoana completing Certificate lll in Health Services Assistance and has achieved her aspirations with empathy and support for others along the way. Shoana has since been a tremendous ambassador for Vocational Training and Education.

Other major award winners include NASSSA School-based Apprentice of the Year, Sterling Hansen, who is working as an apprentice electrician with PEER training. This award was generously sponsored by Liebhurr-Australia Ltd.

Elijah Day won the NASSSA Trainee of the Year award, which was sponsored by LAI Group. Elijah has completed a Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care and his traineeship is with MADEC.

The NASSSA VET Success Through Adversity award was new in 2022. Students, Imari Hathaway, Ashtyn Kolin and Tamzyn Stone who received this award were successful in their VET learning, despite encountering difficult circumstances outside of school life. NASSSA Director, Penny Chancellor commented, ‘It is one thing to be determined and achieve success, but another to fight hard for that success, in the face of adversity. This award acknowledges the extra level of commitment and encourages them on their journey’.

Industry Award winners were:

Tianna Dohse completing Certificate ll in Automotive Servicing Technology

Laticia Cox completing Certificate ll in Community Services

Stacey Ritzau completing Certificate ll in Animal Care Industries

Ali Sultani completing Certificate ll in Construction Pathways

James Wells completing Certificate ll in Construction Pathways

Chloe Mickel completing Stackable Advanced Carpentry Safety

Cody Sergi completing Certificate ll in Electrotechnology

William Brown completing Certificate ll in Engineering

Georgia Samsonenko completing Certificate ll in Kitchen Operations

Amari Hathaway completing Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care

Mia Marrone completing Certificate ll in Health Services Assistant (Stage 1)

Sophie Hoad completing Certificate lll in Health Services Assistant (Stage 2)

Jack Cooper completing Certificate lll in Business

Congratulations, to all award recipients!

Special thanks to our generous Award sponsors:

GOLD

Lai Group

Mas National

SYC Ltd

SILVER

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Education Centre

Connect 'n' Grow

Liebherr-Australia Pty Ltd

Statewide Training Group

BRONZE

Adelaide Training & Employment Centre

Animals on Course

Australian Child Care Career Options

Complete Hospitality Training Skills

Master Builders Association

Motor Trades Association

PEER Education Employment & Training Ltd

Salford College & Training Centre