Vocational training has never been more important in the Snowy Monaro region, Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said.

Mr Whan is encouraging secondary school students to 'strongly' consider vocational careers and take advantage of TAFE NSW fee-free courses.

The Member for Monaro said industries such as construction, hospitality, childcare and tourism all require more staff to the meet current and future demands.

As schools across the state celebrate NSW Public Education Week, Mr Whan praised the efforts of Monaro High School students who recently completed a school-based apprenticeship and traineeship (SBAT).

The students are benefiting from a locally driven initiative between the school, Snowy Hydro, Future Generation Joint Venture and TAFE NSW.

Eight year 12 students received their Certificate II in Supply Chain Operations at a graduation ceremony held inside the Snowy 2.0 segments factory at Polo Flat. To complete their SBAT, students studied one day of the week at TAFE Cooma, spent a day’s work at the segments factory and three days at school.

"It was really exciting to see the hard work of the students and the school pay off," Mr Whan said.

"This project between Monaro High, Snowy Hydro, Future Generation Joint Venture and TAFE NSW helps show the benefits of vocational training.

"We hear some negativity around Snowy 2.0 but this partnership shows what the project can do to help locals."

Mr Whan said he hopes more local businesses work with the region's high schools to establish SBATs.

"I want to encourage parents to look at vocational training and careers for their children. University isn't a pathway for everyone," Mr Whan said.

"The fee-free TAFE NSW courses are a great way to obtain life skills and pursue a career, all without the HECS debt."

2025 has been a busy time for the region's public education providers. In Jindabyne, a new $160 million education precinct was opened. The site is home to the Jindabyne Public School, Jindabyne High School and the TAFE NSW Jindabyne Connected Learning Centre.

"The Connected Learning Centre has created many opportunities for Jindabyne High School and Snowy Mountains Grammar School students to link up with vocational training," Mr Whan said.

"I've heard very good feedback about the centre, well done to all involved.

"Cooma TAFE (runs the centre and the Cooma TAFE NSW campus) is doing a good job, they're active in the community."