Future-Focused Education at Ayr High

(L - R) – Shae Laidlow, Kirryn Laidlow, Kaydee Miller, Brayden Becke. Photo supplied

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Opening doors to university, trades and employment, Ayr State High School is helping Burdekin students build bright futures.

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The senior years represent an exciting chapter in a young person's education. Whether a student dreams of attending university, pursuing a trade, entering the workforce, or exploring an entirely different pathway, the right opportunities can make all the difference. At Ayr State High School, students can explore their interests, develop new skills and prepare for life beyond school through a diverse range of academic, vocational and employment pathways.

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As a leader in STEM education, Ayr High provides outstanding facilities, specialist subjects and co-curricular opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom. Ayr High students are regularly selected for prestigious programs including SPARQ-ed’s Senior Research Immersion Program, the National Youth Science Forum, and STEM Girl Power Camp. These opportunities are complemented by Ayr High’s exceptional science facilities.

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Ayr High’s modern, state-of-the-art science laboratories transform curiosity into understanding, turning lessons into discoveries. In bridging the gap between theory and practice, these facilities enriching learning and ignite curiosity by providing an inspiring environment for practical investigations, collaboration and hands-on learning,

The diverse range of academic learning opportunities on offer at Ayr High are enriched through partnerships with JCU and the Brisbane School of Distance Education. In addition to their suite of subjects and vocational courses, Ayr High also offers additional subjects through distance education. In 2027, senior students will also be able to get a headstart on their tertiary studies by undertaking first year university subjects via JCU Now.

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The academic success of Ayr High’s students is reflected in their ATAR outcomes and first round QTAC offers. Our students’ academic achievements are already opening doors, with four Year 12 students recently receiving early university offers for 2027. Congratulations to these students on their outstanding achievement!

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Ayr High is also future focused in its education to employment pathways. As a Gateway to Industry School, we offer a diverse range of learning pathways and experiences for students pursuing careers in the health sector. Ayr High is the only school in the Burdekin to offer a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance as part of its RTO arrangements. This qualification enables guaranteed entry into several JCU undergraduate courses as well as direct employment in the health sector. Currently, Ayr High has several Certificate III students undertaking traineeships with Queensland Health, combining study with valuable workplace experience.

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As the Burdekin’s largest secondary school, Ayr High also responds to the needs of our local workforce through school-based apprenticeships, TAFE in Schools and traineeships. In another first for the region, we have created a pathway for students who wish to be teacher aides, with one of our students securing a traineeship whilst still at school.

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At Ayr High, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to find their own path to success. By providing a range of senior school learning opportunities and pathways, Ayr High is preparing young people for the future.

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A bright future for our students means a stronger future for the Burdekin—and that is something worth celebrating.