The South Australian government has announced plans to update the school curriculum to include more about built environments, as well as planning, design and construction industries.
The state government, in partnership with the SA Department for Education, has outlined the need to adapt the current curriculum to better assist preschool to high school students in learning about career pathways that are critical to addressing the South Australian housing crisis.
The Department for Education will consult with state government built environment professionals to build on relevant curricula through subjects such as geography, history, design and technology, along with exploring ways for students to obtain first-hand industry experience. The modified education system aims to equip students with the necessary skills to become planners, surveyors, architects, property valuers, conveyancers and designers.
The key focuses of the initiative are to develop student understanding of built environment career opportunities and tertiary education requirements, increase access to high-quality built environment-based teaching and learning activities and resources, establish work experience, professional engagement and trainee programs and improve learning environments in schools and preschools by collaborating on well-designed, inclusive education infrastructure.
South Australian government architect Kirsteen Mackay said the new partnership will inspire students to explore careers in the built environment, shaping the next generation of architects and designers.
“Learning more about the places, structures and systems that determine the shape of our built environment will help build students’ understanding of, and investment in, a sustainable and resilient built environment,” Mackay said.
An industry body group has been established to bring together key stakeholders in building study pathways, to undertake government-led research and to facilitate school workshops in an effort to guide implementation.
Minister for Housing and Urban Development Nick Champion said the demand for skills and knowledge in built environment industries is rapidly increasing amidst the national housing crisis.
“This will lay the foundations for young South Australians to take up these professions to shape future communities and support sustainable growth,” Champion said. “We want graduates to work here.”
