From Storage Rooms to Trade Hubs in Just Three Years

In just three years, an ambitious idea has transformed into two thriving Trade Hubs - marking a significant step forward in vocational education in South Australia.

Stevens Group was proud to attend the recent Trade Hubs Showcase at Golden Grove High School, where Trade Hub 2 at ONE+ (Opportunities in the North East) was officially opened. The event highlighted the remarkable growth and impact of the initiative, which is rapidly becoming a leading model for hands-on, career-focused learning.

The numbers tell a compelling story. Since its inception, student participation in Vocational Education and Training (VET) has nearly doubled, growing from 75 to 139 students. Course offerings have also expanded significantly, increasing from four to eight specialised programs. This rapid development is positioning ONE+ as something akin to a technical college – without formally carrying the title.

ONE+ is a collaborative partnership between Golden Grove High School, Gleeson College, and Pedare Christian College. Together, these schools are creating meaningful pathways for more than 3,700 students, connecting them with real-world trade opportunities from as early as Year 7. By integrating practical, industry-aligned learning into the school experience, students gain valuable exposure to potential career paths well before they leave school.

A key strength of the program is giving students real exposure to trade careers. As Megan Harris, General Manager at PEER, noted during the event, “You can’t be what you can’t see.” ONE+ addresses this directly by giving students hands-on experience, practical skills, and clear insight into future career opportunities within the trades.

Stevens Group is proud to support initiatives like ONE+ through school-based apprenticeships, apprenticeships, and work experience opportunities. These programs play a vital role in building a skilled and confident future workforce, while also strengthening connections between education and industry.

As the Trade Hub continues to grow, so too does its impact – helping shape the next generation of skilled professionals and ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and experience needed to succeed.

We look forward to continuing our support and welcome opportunities to partner in developing the workforce of tomorrow.