After a 50+ year history as neighbours and collaborators, La Trobe University and Parade College have signed an agreement to further encourage positive student experience and success.
Announced on Wednesday, the partnership was celebrated at an event hosted by Parade College, with La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar; Parade College Principal Andrew Kuppe; staff from both institutions, and Parade College students and alumni in attendance.
Professor Dewar thanked Parade College for their commitment to maintaining a strong relationship with the University, that will ensure local students have every opportunity to access higher education in Melbourne's north.
"More Parade students choose to continue their studies at La Trobe than any other University," Professor Dewar said.
"Whether it be Business and Commerce, Health, IT and Engineering, or Arts, Social Sciences and Communications, everything we do commits to ensuring that students have a positive and rewarding experience at La Trobe.
"We are proud of our strong history of allowing people from all walks of life to fully realise the life-changing benefits of a La Trobe University education, and look forward to working with Parade to ensure this value continues to be realised."
The agreement signed by La Trobe and Parade College will see the two organisations work together on the following initiatives:
- Strengthening student pathways through La Trobe-offered ASPIRE and Elite Athlete programs, Vocational Training and Education certificates, scholarships and internships
- Focusing on the Parade College student experience for year 9, 10 and VCE students through the La Trobe Outreach School Partnership Program. In addition to this, La Trobe and Parade will work together to develop a sport-focussed program connecting students from the Parade College Sport Academy with the University's world-class Sports Park
- Encouraging a positive La Trobe student experience and increasing employability opportunities through a number of initiatives, including placement opportunities, traineeships and internships
- Increasing opportunities for research excellence in areas of innovation at Parade College, encouraging potential graduate, post-graduate and PhD research prospects
"La Trobe University and Parade College are key education players in the north," Mr Kuppe said.
"Our two organisations both hold strong values in the areas of inclusiveness, diversity, equity, pursuing excellence and championing our local communities.
"These are just some of the reasons why La Trobe is the University of choice for Parade students, and why we welcome today's formalisation of our partnership."
