Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools Project

The Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools Project, managed by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), and funded by the Department of Employment Small Business and Training, educates and encourages young Queenslanders to become part of tomorrow’s agriculture workforce.

How the project works

The project aims to help young people make a successful transition from school into further education and/or employment in agriculture-related industries. AGISP encourages meaningful collaboration between (and is informed by) schools, Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers, universities, and industry to promote and provide agribusiness career opportunities for young Queenslanders.

In particular, AGISP does this by:

• developing curriculum resources to incorporate modern agricultural examples into business, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics subjects
• partnering with local industry to provide inspirational experience outside the classroom to promote careers in agribusiness
• increasing access to school-based apprenticeship or traineeship opportunities
• providing professional development and up-skilling opportunities for teachers
• helping schools to provide quality VET that equips school students with practical in-demand skills
• providing schools with opportunities to participate in pilot projects designed to ignite interest in working in agriculture.

Benefits for schools

Currently, 75 schools around the State are participating in AGISP, undertaking a range of projects that expose students to various aspects of the agricultural supply chain, including: cropping, husbandry, data analysis, research, scientific trials, logistics, marketing and business management.

School-based agriculture programs are supported by more than 200 industry partners and more than 30 DAF staff state-wide, including extension officers, scientists, project officers and biosecurity officers acting as mentors to teachers. Mentors also assist with sourcing advice for schools wanting to reinvigorate or establish new agriculture programs.

AGISP schools are supported with e-technologies to meet both student and teacher needs, no matter where they are located in Queensland. E-technologies offered include a variety of online classes, webinars and podcasts led by DAF staff, along with industry and education professionals.

In 2022, schools participating in AGISP have been invited to apply for Small Grant funding of up to $10,000 for projects that support teacher professional development, and agriculture studies and projects in schools.

More information

For more information on AGISP, including details on current activities and projects, opportunities for students and teachers or how your school or business can get involved, please contact the project coordinator.