The Baimbridge Globe

Pathways

Head Start Program

Since 2019, the Head Start program has seen school-based apprentices and trainees thrive, enabling students to develop the skills and experience that employers value. From much favourved traditional trades to increased interest in agriculture and green energy, Head Start lets students start learning skills for an apprenticeship or traineeship early – providing them with the real life knowledge that employers need, while continuing to complete their senior schooling. 

With schools reporting strong retention rates and genuine employment outcomes for students post placement, Head Start has now been expanded to include all government Secondary Schools across Victoria. In our area, Head Start Barwon South West has expanded from 16 schools to supporting students across 40 schools in the Geelong and South West region. 

The Head Start Coordinator at Baimbridge is Guy Sevior.

 

So what does it take to be in the Head Start program? 

  • You must be over 15 and enrolled in year 10, 11, 12
  • Ideally have completed work experience or structured workplace learning or willing to work to find opportunities
  • Committed to studying and willing to learn
  • Has good school attendance & is punctual & reliable
     

What do students have to do to be referred?

Career planning: Your school counsellor will work with you to find the right career pathway.

Plan your pathway: Your Head Start coordinator will develop your pathway plan to get you into your chosen career.

Find an employer: Your Head Start coordinator will work with you to find an employer who is committed to mentoring young people in your chosen industry.

Do a trial: You’ll complete work experience or structured workplace learning to make sure it’s the right fit for you.

Get started: Your Head Start coordinator will work with school staff to create a flexible timetable to help you combine school, work and training successfully. They’ll be on hand to give you one-on-one support throughout your Head Start program.

In 2023, the Head Start team have had an amazing year. Our coordinators have had the pleasure of exploring career pathways and opportunities with students, supporting them to balance school, work, training, friends and family.

 

At Baimbridge College, 2 students have taken up an apprenticeship or traineeship in the Head Start Program. Congratulations to the following students who commenced the Head Start program in 2023:

Bella Trembath & Aiden Robinson