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ADELAIDE HILLS VOCATIONAL COLLEGE

Shaping futures since 2003

Adelaide Hills Vocational College is part of the Mount Barker High school and was established in 2003 to provide an alternative and supportive pathway for young people in the Adelaide Hills region to complete their senior secondary education (SACE). The college was formed in response to a growing need to re-engage students who had disengaged from mainstream schooling, offering them a more flexible and vocationally focused learning environment.

From its beginning, the college has played an important role in supporting students from across the Adelaide Hills district. Initially, it catered for approximately 40 young people who had returned to education after time away from school. These students came from a range of government schools within the region, highlighting the collaborative effort to provide inclusive education opportunities and second chances for learning.

In its early years, Adelaide Hills Vocational College operated out of TAFE classrooms located in conjunction with the Mount Barker District Library. This shared facility allowed students to access both vocational training resources and community facilities, creating a practical and accessible learning environment. The partnership with TAFE also reinforced the college’s strong focus on vocational education and pathways beyond school.

As the program grew and demand increased, a significant development occurred in 20??, when a dedicated building was purchased and installed near the TAFE site. This marked an important milestone in the college’s history, providing a permanent and purpose-built space to better support student learning and wellbeing.

Following this expansion, enrolments increased to approximately 75 students (current figure: 75//), reflecting the ongoing demand for alternative education pathways in the region. The growth of the college demonstrates its success in re-engaging young people and supporting them to complete their SACE in an environment suited to their individual needs.

Today, Adelaide Hills Vocational College continues to uphold its founding vision: offering flexible, inclusive, and vocationally relevant education for students who benefit from a different approach to learning. Its establishment in 2003 remains a significant step in broadening educational opportunities within the Adelaide Hills community.

Karen’S WELCOME

ADELAIDE HILLS VOCATIONAL COLLEGE

For enquiring minds

Make an enquiry

Want to know more about the Adelaide Hills Vocational College, and what you can expect? Make an enquiry today.

Enrolment information

Adelaide Hills Vocational College welcomes enrolment enquiries at any time throughout the year.

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Adelaide Hills Vocational College

Our vision

At the Adelaide Hills Vocational College, our vision is to nurture a safe, inclusive, and empowering learning community where every young person feels valued, respected, and capable of success.

We support students to reconnect with education, build confidence, and create meaningful pathways for their future through flexible, personalised, and authentic learning experiences.

Grounded in strong relationships, trauma‑informed and restorative practices, and deep connections with our community, we foster wellbeing, belonging, independence, and resilience. We are committed to offering innovative, real‑world learning opportunities that inspire students to recognise their strengths, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential in education, employment, and life.

Is the Adelaide Hills Vocational College right for you?

Choosing where to complete your senior schooling is an important decision. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about Adelaide Hills Vocational College and discover whether our flexible, supportive, and student-focused approach is the right fit for you and your future goals.