The old 'tech block' at the Catholic Agricultural College Bindoon is being transformed into a leading Trade Training Centre and upgraded Science and Learning Centre for Bindoon students. The refurbished building will house the Computing, Engineering, Agricultural Science, Metal Work and Woodwork rooms, and provide for course work in Automotive and Equine studies.

The Trade Training Centre is the first of its kind in Australia, with selected trade courses developed as part of a Joint Venture with CY O'Connor TAFE. A pre-apprenticeship program will be run at the centre, which can provide a 3-month credit towards a full apprenticeship.

Principal Damian Wallis said "The new technical and trade centre will be a great improvement in facilities for the college, and will provide Bindoon with a state of the art facility which will enable students to be trained on the latest equipment. Our partnership with C Y O'Connor TAFE ensures high quality trainers will be available to support learning in the local area".

The facility is set to open in stages, with the Metal Work and Engineering rooms due to open in February 2010, and the remaining rooms completed by July 2010.