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FNQ Vocational Academy
FNQ Vocational Academy is an innovative, award-winning initiative between TAFE Queensland Cairns campus and Trinity Bay State High School. The program allows students to study for their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), as well as two Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications while at high school.
Get a head start on your career
FNQ Vocational Academy is designed to give you the skills you need to get a head start in the workforce. You'll get to develop real world skills by completing work placements and/or securing an apprenticeship or traineeship as part of your high school studies.
Study areas
The program is available in Cairns and offers the following study areas:
- Aviation ground operations and remote piloting
- Resources, infrastructure and construction
- Electrical and construction or plumbing
- Construction and plumbing
- Engineering and maritime
- Engineering (metal fabrication) and automotive vocational preparation
- Engineering (diesel fitting) and automotive vocational preparation
Our FNQ Vocational Academy partner
Download the course guide
Learn more about the subject information, available qualifications, QCE credits, workwear/uniform requirements and more with the FNQ Vocational Academy course guide.
Entry requirements and application process
In order to apply for the FNQ Vocational Academy program you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- have successfully completed Year 10 or equivalent,
- be at least 15 years of age, and
- demonstrate a minimum standard in literacy and numeracy.
It will also be considered an advantage if you've already completed some work experience in your chosen study area.
To apply you'll need to complete an expression of interest form and attend an interview.
Students and parents/guardians will be required to sign and adhere to the FNQ Vocational Academy Responsible Behaviour Plan and to the rules governing student behaviour.
Timetables and duration
Orientation and placement
The first day of study will be considered orientation and work experience placement will commence in week 3, one day per week.
First semester
During Semester 1 students attend FNQ Vocational Academy at TAFE Queensland four days per week with one day allocated as work experience placement.
Semesters two to four
During the remaining three semesters students attend FNQ Vocational Academy at TAFE Queensland three days per week with two days allocated as work experience placement.
School subjects vs placement
School subjects are timetabled around work experience placement to avoid conflicting with class time. This ensures a smooth transition from school to work.
Shoreline
Shoreline provides eligible FNQ Vocational Academy students who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander with an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of their Elders and look after Country. Students who are passionate about the ocean and a career in ecotourism are encouraged to apply.
All applicants will be required to attend an interview with teachers from the course area. Courses will only proceed if there are sufficient participants.
Aviation Australia Program
Aviation is a fun and exciting career path, offering a great lifestyle with opportunities to travel.
The school pathway program is the perfect introduction for anyone with a passion for aviation and customer service. After you finish the course, you will be job ready.
All applicants will be required to attend an interview with teachers from the course area. Courses will only proceed if there are sufficient participants.
Information for employers
As an employer, you can benefit from FNQ Vocational Academy students undertaking work experience at your business at no cost to you. This will help you determine if the FNQ Vocational Academy student is suitable for a future apprenticeship or traineeship in your business.
Support services
TAFE Queensland offers a wide range of student support services that FNQ Vocational Academy students are able to access. In addition to this, Trinity Bay State High School also provides FNQ Vocational Academy students with access to a guidance officer, school nurse, youth worker and school-based police officer.
Contact us
For enquiries, please contact FNQ Vocational Academy:
Phone: 07 4042 2590 or