Phase One of RDA Hunter’s ME Program, which builds smarter schools, is now complete.

The Program funded through the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) has seen 7,500 students participate. Since 2010 there’s been 25 Hunter high schools that have engaged with 32 Hunter based companies.

These smart schools together with local industry are building a skilled and tailored workforce for the future.

The ME Program has increased maths and science based subject selection in its partner schools; created iSTEM – a Board of Studies approved course implemented across NSW; and developed the Living Toolkit – a set of problem based learning resources for teachers.

It has also improved its industry partners’ access to a pool of ready, skilled staff. Industry partner, Ampcontrol, reported a 70% increase in the uptake of apprentices from 2012 to 2013.

“The results of the first phase of the ME Program have shown it to be a hugely successful model,” said RDA Hunter CEO Todd Williams

“With the majority of Hunter high schools linked with the region’s key industry, outcomes have surpassed all expectations. We are very proud of the Program’s status as Australia’s most innovative workforce development program.”

Phase Two of the Program starts in 2015.