Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland)—Since 2006, the Maitland based Hunter Trade College has worked with over 2,200 students from across the Hunter, Upper Hunter, and Central Coast regions delivering HSC vocational education and training programs. In recognition of their dedication to expanding the concepts of education, the Hunter Trade College has recently been named a finalist in the Australian Training Awards – a prestigious national celebration of Australia's best training providers, vocational students, apprentices, trainees, and employers. I congratulate the Hunter Trade College upon their nomination as one of three national finalists in the School Pathways to VET Award category. Their programs offer up to 175 students per year trade-focused Higher School Certificate programs, providing students with the opportunity to obtain a nationally recognised qualification and extensive work experience placements as they also complete their HSC studies. These programs provide a way for young people to transition from school into employment with real work experience in their chosen trades to help kick start their careers. The Hunter Trade College are focused on the importance of vocational education and training in our local economic recovery following the pandemic. I congratulate the Hunter Trade College upon their recognition at the national level.