Principal Andrew Want is driving change at The Industry School in North Ipswich with energy, vision and a clear focus on preparing students for life after school. His passion for vocational learning, lived experience, and straight-talking approach align perfectly with the school’s mission: giving young people real-world skills that stick.
For Mr Want, vocational education isn’t just an option, it’s the key to future success. He says the world ahead will demand resilience, adaptability and practical know-how. That’s why The Industry School’s approach is all about “futureproofing” students, setting them up with strengths they can carry anywhere.
The school caters for Years 10 to 12 and runs on a bold 10-week cycle: five weeks of hands-on industry experience, followed by five weeks of classroom learning. Year 10s follow the Australian Curriculum in English, Maths, Science, SOSE, History and HPE, while seniors focus on three core subjects – English, Maths and Vocational Education and Training (VET).
Mr Want’s Ipswich roots run deep. A Bremer High graduate, he headed straight to university after Year 12, only to realise the timing wasn’t right. “I wasn’t quite ready for the independence,” he says.
Instead, he worked while studying, gaining first-hand experience in manufacturing, transport, and even fixing school computers, skills that continue to shape his leadership today.
His career path led him to Deputy Principal at Ipswich High, where he helped grow successful programs like the Trade Training Centre and Rugby League Excellence. Along the way, he saw the power of linking young people with local opportunities, especially in trades like construction, automotive, engineering, manufacturing and rural industries.
That insight fuelled the launch of The Industry School’s specialist academies in Automotive, Construction, Energy and Equine. The goal is simple: connect great young people with industry so they graduate with a QCE – and often a school-based traineeship or apprenticeship already under their belt.
The school itself feels more like a workplace than a classroom. Students learn teamwork, professionalism and job readiness, supported by staff with industry backgrounds and personal coaches who guide them through both work and life.
Four dedicated Industry Consultants keep students connected to a network of thousands of employers, while alumni often return to mentor the next generation.
The impact of this model is reflected in its alumni.
“Past students often come in and mentor the younger students,” Mr Want says, underscoring the lasting connections and community spirit that define The Industry School.
