School News

iTrack program to run at WPSC again this year

This information is taken from the Smith  Family who run this program. More details can be obtained by going to the  following website:

https://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/programs/mentoring/itrack

iTrack provides students with someone to talk to outside of their networks, who can give them advice and encourage them with their post-school plans.

iTrack is an online mentoring program for high school students in Years 9 to 11. Students are matched with a supportive adult (other than a teacher or parent) who volunteers as a mentor and provides the student with general encouragement, advice and guidance about workplace, study and career opportunities. Students and mentors communicate over an 18 week period.

What do students get out of it ?

Here is one students thoughts about completing  the program last year:

When I first heard about iTrack, I had no idea or any direction for my plans for after school. After learning more about the program, I signed up to take part. I was paired with a buddy, Katelyn, who was really easy to get along with and had very similar interests as me. Katelyn had completed VCE in year 12, and was also in her third year of university. I was fortunate that she has completed subjects quite similar to me, and therefore had a great understanding of what I was studying. Throughout our weekly chats, I learnt heaps of information about study methods, coping with stress, and Year 12 in general! Before attending iTrack, I knew very little about the process of applying for university and the adaption from high school to uni. I myself, am wanting to go to university in the coming years, and having Katelyn as a recourse really helped me to gain confidence and understanding for the future years! My buddy was also quite aware of the different universities and what courses they offered, which helped me to consider a wide range of options. After talking to her about my interests, and doing some extra research, I was able to find a course in which I am looking forward to pursuing. I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to gain knowledge about the senior years of school, post school, or just learning about different jobs. There’s nothing to lose in taking part in the program and for me, it was a great and clarifying opportunity.

Claire Macgill