Fifteen students from Chatswood and surrounding suburbs have taken part in a statewide virtual work placement focused on artificial intelligence, gaining practical experience with support from major technology mentors.
Building Digital Skills Across NSW
Held from 27 to 31 October 2025, the initiative formed part of the 2025 Vocational Education and Training (VET) Virtual Work Placement Program. More than 500 students from 134 schools across New South Wales participated in the program, which aimed to strengthen the digital capabilities of young learners and prepare them for future workforce demands.
The program was developed in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), CommBank, IBM ANZ and Accenture. Together, these organisations collaborated with the NSW Department of Education to deliver a curriculum that focuses on emerging technologies and their real-world applications.
Chatswood Students Gain Experience
Students from local schools, including St Pius X College, Killarney Heights High School and Northern Beaches Secondary College, joined the sessions to complete their required 35 hours of industry placement for the Certificate II in Information and Digital Technology. The experience offered local students exposure to professional environments while enabling them to learn remotely through virtual platforms.
Exploring Artificial Intelligence
Throughout the week, participants accessed online workshops and seminars from learning hubs in Sydney, Wagga Wagga, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour. The program covered artificial intelligence applications in cybersecurity, responsible use, problem-solving and digital storytelling. Industry mentors guided the sessions to help students understand how AI is influencing industries and everyday technology.
Addressing the Future Workforce Gap
The program responds to the projected shortfall of 85,000 digital workers expected by 2030. It builds on five years of collaboration between the education sector and AWS, with more than 1,500 students having completed the initiative since its inception.
Preparing Chatswood Learners for a Digital Future
Through their participation, Chatswood students gained insights into career pathways in technology and developed greater confidence in their digital skills. The virtual placement continues to serve as an important opportunity for students to explore technology-driven industries while meeting their course requirements.
Published 30-Oct-2025