Adult learners hit hard by ATWEA exit

ATWEA College has confirmed it will phase out all accredited training programs by 30 June, 2026, following a strategic review of its operations.

While Alesco Secondary College will continue to expand, including exploration of new campus opportunities, the closure of ATWEA’s training arm will affect students undertaking vocational qualifications across NSW.

The news shocked students such as Raymond Terrace resident Deanne Choyce.

Ms Choyce is studying a Certificate III in Individual Support, specialising in aged care and disability support.

She said students and staff were delivered the unexpected news of the closure in late May.

“As adults, we don’t have the same range of education pathways that younger students do,” Ms Choyce said.

“In regional areas there are already limited face-to-face training options, particularly for people looking to gain qualifications that lead directly to employment in sectors like aged care and disability support.”

The decision, approved by the ATWEA Board as part of the organisation’s 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, will allow greater investment in Alesco Secondary College and community learning programs.

In a statement, ATWEA said the move represented a return to its core mission of supporting young people through innovative secondary education while continuing to deliver accessible community learning through its Learn for Fun courses.

Chief Executive Officer Helga Smit said the decision followed consideration of the long-term sustainability of accredited training delivery and the changing vocational education environment.

Ms Choyce said students were concerned about being required to transfer to new training providers, potentially facing longer travel times, unfamiliar learning environments and disruptions to their studies.

The concerns come at a time when workforce shortages continue across the care sector, with training organisations playing a key role in preparing future workers.

ATWEA has assured students that classes will continue in the short term and that completed units of study will be recognised by receiving providers.

The organisation says it is working with quality training organisations to create clear pathways for students to complete their qualifications and minimise disruption.

Students, however, say the closure raises broader questions about the future availability of community-based vocational education in regional NSW and the barriers adult learners may face in accessing further training.

The concerns echo broader community fears that the loss of local training opportunities could have long-term impacts on workforce development and education access across the Hunter.