Why Education Partnerships like ‘P-TECH’ Work !

Partners need to share the same goal and commitment to solving a shared problem. With that, they also need to make sure that their vision for accomplishing the goal is the same. Partners need to really listen to one another, and determine what each brings to the table. What unique resources can they each contribute to further that shared vision and how, specifically, will they do so?

One remarkable, rapidly expanding model of an innovative education-industry partnership is Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH). The first P-TECH school, launched in Brooklyn in 2011, is a partnership between the New York City Department of Education, The City University of New York, and IBM. It’s a six-year public school that graduates students with a high school diploma, as well as an associate in applied science degree. By integrating high school and college-level coursework with hands-on workplace experience and professional mentors, P-TECH prepares graduates to transition directly into high-demand IT and STEM jobs. Like traditional public high schools, P-TECH schools are free to attend; the only admissions requirement is a willingness to work hard. Since 2011, 40 P-TECH schools have opened nationwide, and the number is projected to reach 100 by 2016.

One important aspect of the P-TECH model is that it puts successful students first in line for jobs with corporate partners, in this case IBM. This incentive helps keep students engaged in their education and on-the-job training opportunities. At the same time, companies know they are investing in the skilled talent they need to grow.

The promise of the model lies in the common vision shared by participating educators, policy makers, and businesses. All have a vested interest in preparing today’s young people for the rewarding, skilled jobs of tomorrow. At the same time, each sector is clear about their specific role.

The Australian Federal Government will pilot two schools in 2016. Skilling Australia has assisted the Australian Government in the conversations with partners and key stakeholders in preparation for the launch of the P-TECH pathways schools in Australia in 2016.

To learn more about P-Tech visit the Skilling Australia Website here