School embraces Cisco training

By PAUL BRISLEN

Students are leaving Avondale College armed not only with the usual qualifications but also with two-years' experience in Cisco networking devices.

The students are part of a programme that teaches them the basics of networking using industry-leading technology from Cisco Systems.

Not only do the students have a head start on their university studies should they wish to go on to higher education, but they're also most of the way towards Cisco Certified Network Associates grading, something Avondale deputy principal Phil Hill believes will lead to higher-paying jobs in the workforce.

"Last year eight lads took part and six of them have passed and the other two are still in the system working on those exams."

Cisco certification is seen by the industry as the first step towards network administration.

The teacher in charge of the project, Ewan Thompson, said it was recognised around the world.

"The Cisco certification is used for network management and that kind of thing. Anyone with this certificate will know how the internet works, how to connect computers together, that sort of thing."

Rather than being a purely theory-based programme, the students have plenty of hands-on experience. Two of them are now working part-time at the school in tech-support roles.

The students have earned credits towards their NCEA school certificates, something the school believes will help fend off criticism that it is teaching a trade rather than educating the students.

"It's not teaching a trade as such, but more basic computer science," Thompson said.

He has also had to "upskill" to keep up with the students. He has been certified as a CCNA instructor - one of only a handful in NZ.

Mr Hill said Thompson had put in a lot of his own time and effort into the project. "It's an exciting development for the school and for the students involved.

"They're from a wide range of backgrounds and they've got a shot at a well-paid job once they leave."

Last year's class of eight has been increased to more than 20 and Hill said other schools were setting up similar programmes.