Students at The Heights Technical College will be looking to the skies through an aero skills specialisation.

Aero skills is the first of the specialisations and a key qualification to enable students to work in the defence sector. The specialised skills and knowledge will allow graduates to maintain aircraft to keep planes flying safely.

An important component of the defence industry in South Australia, the aero skills sector has limited institutional vocational pathways to entry level roles within the state – an issue that will be addressed through the technical college.

An entry level pathway will be offered including the Certificate II in Aeroskills, leading to apprenticeships post-school that will help build South Australia’s aero skills sector, which will support defence and civil aviation businesses.

Set to open in 2026, the technical college in Adelaide’s north east, will support students in years 10 to 12 to complete their SACE while undertaking vocational education and training in state-of-the-art specialist facilities, designed with industry.

Following analysis of in-demand skills and engagement with stakeholders, four key industry specialisations have been identified for students attending The Heights Technical College. As well as aero skills, it will also offer:

• Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering
• Building and Construction
• Early Childhood and Education

The Heights Technical College is one of five being built in South Australia, with one of those – at Findon – already open.

The $208.8 million government commitment is focused on providing students will the skills needed to work in areas of key industry demand in South Australia, including the defence sector.

The colleges are being specifically designed and built to be fit-for-purpose reflecting the modern workplace environment and equipped with the tools, equipment and training aids.