Education Minister Anne Tolley has announced that Northland College will be the base for one of five new trades academies set to open in 2011.

"Every student should have an education system which works for them and which meets their needs, and Tai Tokerau Trades Training Academy will help deliver this," said Mrs Tolley.

"Trades academies are part of the Government's Youth Guarantee programme. They'll provide more career choices for 16 and 17 year olds, and give them greater opportunities to develop their knowledge, skills and talents through trades and technology programmes."

Tai Tokerau Trades Training Academy will initially focus on the automotive, construction, agriculture and horticulture, creative design, film-making and hospitality industries.

Northland College proposes to partner with 17 other schools, a tertiary institution, a training centre and industry partners to offer courses for the whole of the Northland region. It will give students a head-start in an industry-related career, earning both NCEA credits and a tertiary qualification.

There were 113 expressions of interest from providers across New Zealand. The four other trades academies to open in 2011 will be based at:

• Waikato Institute of Technology and Cambridge High School
  
• Wellington Institute of Technology
  
• Taratahi Agricultural Centre
  
• Catlins Area School

Six additional proposals put to the Ministry by education providers will also be developed with a view to establishing trades academies.

"This government is committed to bringing out the best in our young people. We want to see more students gain qualifications which will set them on a strong career path and help them achieve in their chosen field."