Celebrating Achievement: Year 9 Students Complete the GTFP Program

This week marked an inspiring milestone for Newcomb Secondary College’s Year 9 students as they attended an awards ceremony after having proudly completed the Geelong Tertiary Futures Program (GTFP) as part of Newcomb Secondary College's GROW curriculum this year. A collaboration between Newcomb Secondary College, the Gordon TAFE, and the Skilling the Bay Initiative, the GTFP offers students a valuable opportunity to engage in hands-on vocational learning across diverse fields, such as building construction, hospitality, community service, and childcare.

The program’s innovative approach allows students to step into the world of tertiary education, completing TAFE-based Units of Competency that contribute to their academic transcripts. Beyond academic credentials, students gain practical skills, insight into potential career paths, and a taste of what life is like as a tertiary student.

A Celebration of Excellence

At a special awards ceremony, every student received a Certificate of Completion, acknowledging their dedication and success. Additionally, 10 top-achieving students were celebrated for their exceptional performance across the program’s diverse fields of study. Among them, Mia Pfarrer and Lillie Della Monica received special commendations for their outstanding contributions and achievements, inspiring their peers and highlighting the potential of vocational learning.

Newcomb Secondary College continues to shine as a leader in student achievement, ranking highest in completion rates among 11 local high schools. This commendable result reflects the school’s strong investment in student pathways and the hope, motivation, and aptitude demonstrated by its students.

Building Pathways to the Future

The GTFP program is a fantastic demonstration of how collaboration and community support can inspire potential. It lays the foundation for what’s next. For some students, the program provides the confidence and skills to accelerate into a VETdSS (Vocational Education and Training delivered to Secondary Students) subject in Year 10. Others will use the experience to shape their senior schooling pathway selections, with many considering entry into TAFE in Years 11-12 to further pursue their career ambitions.

Newcomb Secondary College extends its gratitude to the Gordon TAFE, Skilling the Bay Initiative, and all staff who contributed to this program’s success. Congratulations to all Year 9 students—your achievements inspire us all, and we look forward to seeing the incredible paths you will forge!