Our VET students have been working hard this term, both in their internal and external courses. Internally, students have been engaging in hands-on learning experiences within our school facilities, gaining practical skills in the areas of performing arts, engineering and much more. Externally, many students have taken advantage of courses of their choice allowing them to gain real-world experience and insights into their chosen fields.

I look forward to a jam-packed Term Two, with many students going out on work placement.

A question I get asked a lot is References vs Referees:

What’s the difference?

Referee

A referee is a person an employer can contact to talk about you. They confirm your skills, work ethic, and reliability. They don’t prepare anything in advance; they just need to be ready to respond if contacted.

Reference

A reference is a written document, usually a letter, describing your work and character. It’s prepared ahead of time and can be reused for multiple applications.

Who should be a referee?

Choose someone who knows your work and can speak positively about it, such as a manager, supervisor, teacher, coach, or mentor. Avoid friends or family due to bias. If you have no work experience, teachers or volunteer supervisors are fine.

Before listing a referee

Always ask permission first
Tell them what role you’re applying for
Make sure their contact details are up to date

VET Spotlight

Year 12 student Sarah Hagan is currently studying a Diploma of Sport at Diamond High Performance. As part of her assessment, Sarah, along with a small group of students, is organising a Pickleball Tournament this Sunday, 29 March.

The event will be held at Hale College, with members of the Hale Old Boys Association coming together to participate in the tournament. All funds raised will be donated to Kai-Fella.

Claire Eardley founded Kai-Fella, a Western Australian charity, after losing her son in 2016. The organization works to prevent youth suicide by delivering mental health workshops and encouraging open, honest conversations among young people.

Well done to Sarah for leading this valuable initiative.

Rosa Nicholls

Head of VET and Transition

Out of School Achievements