A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed by representatives from Chevalier College and TAFE Illawarra on February 27 with the aim of developing training for employment opportunities in the Highlands.

Chevalier College principal Chris McDermott said other high schools in the area would be invited to work together with Chevalier College and TAFE Illawarra to find ways to improve vocational education and training for young people in the Highlands region.

"Our focus is on providing education in regional areas for regional students for regional jobs," he said.

Mr McDermott had high hopes for the partnership between TAFE Illawarra and Chevalier College.

"Great things can come out of things when people are brave enough to go outside of the box or outside of the rules."

Mr McDermott said the college would seek the best outcomes for its use of the trade centre facilities, including engaging with the community and other schools.

"There is a growing need for education providers to offer pathways that maximise a student's employment prospects, as well as supporting their academic development."

TAFE Illawarra relieving institute director Lucy Arundell said this venture would lead to discussions that would see additional vocational education for students not just at Chevalier College but for all of the Southern Highlands.

"By working in partnership with Chevalier College and other schools in sharing resources such as training facilities, training expertise and marketing strengths we aim to ensure that VET courses are more commercially available in the region," she said.

The MOU signing took place at Chevalier College and included a tour of the buildings that form the first two stages of the college's newly built Highlands Trade Skills Training Hub. These two stages comprise two purpose-built education buildings, one for construction courses and the other for primary industries courses.

They were built with the assistance of a $1.5 million Federal Government grant and are valued at $2.2 million. Wollondilly MP Jai Rowell was present at the ceremony as a speaker and as a witness to the signing of the MOU. He said this partnership would be an important opportunity for young people in the Highlands.

"This will help to keep regional jobs in regional communities and boost our economy."