Year 11 Students Shine in WPL Work Experience !

Year 11 students recently traded their school uniforms for work attire as they embarked on this semester’s two-week work experience adventure. From childcare to conservation, our students explored a variety of job roles, with some being offered employment opportunities.

Diverse Roles, Diverse Skills

Our students dived into roles across multiple industries, gaining hands-on experience and discovering new passions. In childcare, they learned the art of patience and the magic of storytelling, keeping little ones entertained and engaged.  Over in retail, students mastered the fine balance of customer service and stock management, proving that a smile really does go a long way.

Mechanics and More

For those with a knack for fixing things, the mechanics placements were a dream come true, with Heavy Diesel apprenticeships the focus. Meanwhile, future educators got a taste of the classroom, discovering that teaching is as much about learning as it is about instructing.

Electrifying Experiences

In the world of electrical work, students learned the ins and outs of wiring and safety protocols. One budding electrician remarked, “I now understand why my parents always told me not to stick forks in the toaster!” The theatre arts placements were equally thrilling, with students helping behind the scenes and even getting a chance to shine on stage.

Hairdressing and Conservation

Our future stylists in hairdressing discovered the joy of transforming looks and boosting confidence. In conservation, our student worked tirelessly to protect our natural environment, proving that even small efforts can make a big difference. The chance to attend many field trips and record data on rare flora species amongst our beautiful bushland.

A Round of Applause

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the businesses and organizations that welcomed our students with open arms. Your mentorship and support have been invaluable. Many students have experienced a significant boost in confidence and have further developed their work skill abilities, such as communication skills. It’s been wonderful to see them thrive in real-world environments.

We are proud to share a few photos of our students in action, showcasing their hard work and dedication. Well done, Year 11s! 

Workplace Learning (WPL) program - success story

WPL offers a range of benefits for both students and employers and can empower students to make informed decisions about their future career pathway options.

Here is one story about a young man who has an interest for heavy diesel mechanics and embarked on a transformative journey through our program this year.

Leon decided to pursue this interest further through the Workplace Learning Program which provided Leon with the unique opportunity to not only explore the industry but build professional relationships with mentors and supervisors, which is valuable for future job opportunities.

Over the course of several months, Leon attended multiple work experiences at different mining machinery companies. Each placement offered a new perspective and set of challenges. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, Leon learned about the maintenance and repair of heavy diesel machinery, safety protocols, and the importance of teamwork in such a demanding environment.

At the completion of this work experience with a wealth of practical experience and a clear career goal in mind, Leon decided to apply for an apprenticeship in Heavy Diesel Mechanics with EPIROC. The application process was rigorous, requiring a detailed resume, references from workplace mentors, and a series of interviews and medical exams. Leon’s dedication and enthusiasm shone through, impressing the selection panel.

The hard work paid off when Leon received the news of being accepted into the apprenticeship program. Leon’s journey from a curious student to a successful apprentice is a testament to the value of hands-on learning and the support of educational programs that connect students with real-world opportunities.

Maxine Merchant – VET Coordinator

Rebecca Fairbrother – WPL Officer