Technical College High School- Pickering

The Chester County Technical College High School Pickering Campus is a public high school in Phoenixville, PA specializing in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and available for students in grades 10 through 12. CTE programs prepare students for success in college, the workplace and life. Students and their families are always welcome to visit.

All CTE programs at the Pickering Campus are designated as High Priority Occupations (HPO) by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry and are aligned with the Pennsylvania State Academic Standards and national industry certifications.

CTE programs at the Pickering Campus lead seamlessly to postsecondary education through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) SOAR Programs of Study. The mission of SOAR is to prepare Students (who are) Occupationally and Academically Ready for college and careers in an increasingly diverse, high- performing workforce. Graduates of approved SOAR programs who meet challenging academic and technical criteria qualify for several FREE technical credits at over forty-two participating colleges across Pennsylvania. These include the Pennsylvania College of Technology, Delaware County Community College, Clarion University, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, and Harcum College. For more information about SOAR and the complete list of participating colleges and postsecondary program, please click here.

▶ Traditional high school career and technical programs

▶ Traditional college courses

▶ Dual-enrollment classes that blend high school and for-credit college courses

Each program is described below. Additional information and the online application may be found here.

TECHNICAL  COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL PICKERING CAMPUS                        

Grade(s): 10-12                 Credit(s): 3.0                      Weight: ST

Length: Year                         

Prerequisite: Parent permission and application approval by TCHS.

Traditional                             Periods/day: 4

Course numbers:  1911P

The Chester County Intermediate Unit operates career and technical educational programs for secondary students at the Technical College High School (TCHS) Pickering Campus.   The programs offered at TCHS provide marketable job skills that will allow students a strong foundation to enter the workforce or continue with higher education.  All programs provide students with an opportunity to earn college credit or advanced placement at selected post-secondary schools in their career field.  For more details about earning college credit for TCHS High School course work, please see our website and select Students/College Credit Opportunities or the individual Career & Technical Education program descriptions. Students may attend TCHS Pickering every year starting in grade 10.  

Allied Health

This highly successful senior-only program is a college preparatory option for academically talented high school seniors considering a career in the medical profession. The program includes 7.5 hours per cycle of classroom and clinical experience in a healthcare facility as well as AED and CPR certification. Students may also participate in Dual Enrollment for college credit. Due to the number of clinical locations available, the program has limited enrollment. TCHS Pickering participating hospitals include Paoli Hospital and Phoenixville Hospital although students may be accepted at other locations.

Animal Science

Animal Science prepares students to provide for the welfare of animals in the pet companion industry, veterinary science and biomedical fields. Graduates of the program are prepared for post- secondary education and entry-level employment. Upon graduation, interesting and rewarding career paths can be followed which combine a love for animals with an interest in the life sciences. Program concentrations include animal anatomy and physiology, animal cruelty issues, animal hygiene, genetics, husbandry, nutrition, preventative care and medicine, reproduction, and surgical assisting. Due to the emphasis on science and math, students considering this program should possess a strong academic foundation.

Automotive Collision Technology

Automotive Collision Technology is for students who have a keen interest in motor vehicles and an eye for color, shape and creativity. Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue professional credentialing, entry- level employment, and post-secondary education. Automotive Collision technology instruction is provided in the following areas: detailing and estimating, glass and hardware repair and replacement, metal finishing and body fillings, non-structural damage repair, outer body panel repair, painting and refinishing, welding and cutting. Program learning activities parallel the industry-recognized I-CAR curriculum.

Automotive Service Technology

The Automotive Service Technology program is certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and prepares students for post-secondary education and entry-level employment in the rapidly changing automotive service industry. Students are introduced to the ever-changing advancements that occur in the automotive industry such as hybrid vehicle design and maintenance. Instruction is provided in the following areas: automotive electrical and electronics systems, brake repair and installation, drive train and engine performance, heating and cooling systems, suspension and steering systems. The program also emphasizes customer relations and instructs students in the use of proper etiquette in a service economy.

Carpentry

The Carpentry program develops students’ skills for a career in the residential, commercial and home improvement construction industry. Students enrolled in the program learn safety practices, job estimating, and materials selection practices. They also learn the basics of rough carpentry, including the layout of walls, rafters, stairs and floors. Finish carpentry is also studied, including blueprint reading and drafting, cutting and joining construction materials, door, window and trim installation. Students have the opportunity to learn cabinet and furniture construction, including the use of laminates. A major focus is the construction of the joints required in fine cabinetry and furniture construction. Students study blueprint reading, construction methods and estimating, materials selection, and the safe use of hand and power tools. Students are responsible for the completion of hands- on carpentry and cabinetmaking projects from start to finish.

Commercial Art & Design Media

The Commercial & Graphic Arts program is based on industry standards that prepare students for admission to post-secondary art schools and entry-level employment in the graphic communications industry. Students learn the basics of design, color theory, page layout, lettering and the production skills needed for the printing industry. Advanced study focuses on the use of computer graphic design skills and introduces students to software such as; Adobe, Photoshop, InDesign, Flash and Acrobat Pro. Upon completion of the program, students have a portfolio of their work to present to prospective employers and college admissions officers. 

Cosmetology

The Cosmetology program prepares students for state licensing in the field of cosmetology. Students can qualify to become a licensed cosmetologist or to obtain a specialized license in other areas, such as: nail technician, esthetician or natural hair braider. Program theory and hands-on skill instruction is provided in the following areas: facials, hairstyling, cutting, coloring, permanent waving and relaxing, straightening, infection control, principals and practice, manicures and pedicures, and professional awareness.

Criminal Justice & Police Sciences

The Criminal Justice and Police Sciences program prepares students for both post-secondary education and entry-level employment in the protective services field. Students in the program are graded based on mastery of traditional classroom theory and performance of hands-on skills, including: performing police and security tactics, investigating crime scenes, and investigation report writing. Students receive instruction in the following areas: basic fire science, crime scene investigation, criminal investigation, criminal law, civil law, and court procedures, electronic security systems, forensic science, investigative photography, police and security tactics, and self-defense.

Culinary Arts

The Culinary Arts program teaches students the necessary skills to be successful in the creative and rewarding food service industry. Graduates of the program may choose to continue their education with advanced standing in college and other post-secondary programs, or they may seek employment in entry-level culinary positions. The instructional program includes classroom theory and hands-on skill development in the following areas: baking, catering, customer service, food preparation, food service management, short order and high-volume cooking. Graduates of the program are certified under of an American Culinary Federation approved program.

Digital Media & Sound Communications

Digital Media & Sound Communications teaches the art and science of media production in the genres of video, audio, web, design, TV production, animation, photography and more. Students will develop skills in; communication technology and safety procedures, design layouts, ethical and societal issues in communication technology, photography and cinematography, web collaboration and web design applications. Upon completion of the Digital Media & Sound Communications program, students may earn an Adobe Certified Associate Certificate as well as an Apple Certified Pro – Final Cut Pro Certification.  

Early Childhood Care & Education

The Early Childhood Care and Education program aligns its curriculum with the Pennsylvania Department of Education Bureau of Career & Technical Education Child Development Associate (CDA)-Ready curriculum. All components of our Early Childhood Care and Education program prepare students to earn the CDA national certification. To become CDA ready, students complete 120 hours of formal training through multiple modalities, such as: active accredited trainings, project-based learning, research and field observations, and web-based distance education. Students gain experience as they rotate through various in-house preschool programs. Students create portfolios and professional development records that document their training and 480 hours of experience working with children in a preschool environment. Agreements with various colleges can provide students with between six and 15 undergraduate credits in early childhood education after completing the program.

Engine Technology

The Engine Technology program prepares students with the skills to troubleshoot and repair residential, commercial, and recreational outdoor power equipment and small engine. The program is aligned with the industry-recognized Equipment Engine Training Council (EETC) certification program, and includes engine repair and rebuilding, performance upgrades and the repair of various systems. The systems covered in the program include fuel, electronic, lubrication, cooling and braking systems. Maintenance procedures are a key component of the program as they relate to welding, fabrication and machining. The use of computer technology in a customer service- and teamwork-based learning environment, is a major focus of the program. Career advancement in this field is largely dependent upon post-secondary education and successful work experience.

Health Career Pathways

Students explore the many exciting career pathways available in the health and medical occupations fields. They study vital signs, adult and pediatric patient assessment, ambulatory devices, and direct patient care. Direct clinical observation experience in a health care setting may be arranged to prepare students for a variety of careers in the health care industry. The Health Occupations program combines instruction in anatomy and physiology, growth and development, health careers, medical abbreviations, medical ethics, medical terminology, and nutrition. An emphasis is placed on communication and leadership skills, computer literacy and medical math. Many graduates of this program choose to continue their education to pursue careers in nursing, sports medicine, physical therapy and radiology.

Precision CNC Machining

Precision CNC Machining prepares students to shape the future of manufacturing and technology with cutting-edge, computer-controlled machining equipment. Precision CNC Machining primarily focuses on blue print reading, bench work, CNC programming, drill presses, grinding machines, part inspection and safety. Students involved in CNC Machining will demonstrate job readiness through National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certificates.

Electrical Occupations

Students who are passionate about electronics and want their education to include hands-on building, installing and repairing of electrical systems will thrive in the Electrical Occupations program. Students will be provided with an understanding of safety, the handling of power tools, how to navigate a jobsite and an in-depth understanding of electricity. This program will allow students to navigate the National Electrical Code (NEC) and be well-positioned to pursue careers in the electrical trades.

Teacher Leadership Academy

The Teacher Leadership Academy is a program for high school seniors interested in pursuing a career in the field of education. In addition to earning 2 high school credits, students have the opportunity to enroll in a dual enrollment program to earn college credit. The course consists of 7.5 hours/cycle divided between classroom instruction and internships with certified, tenured teachers at all grade levels, resulting in approximately 180 hours of instruction and 90 hours of internship experience. Student internships consist of Elementary, Secondary Education and Special Education placements