Careers News

Sydenham Careers

Another round of year 10 students were out and about on Work Placement during the last week of Term 3 & 4.  Feedback from employers has been great; students have made valuable contributions to their work places.  Students also had a taste of the world of work, and a snapshot of life in their aspiring profession.

I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage year 9’s to start thinking about ideas for possible work placement in 2020, as it’s your turn next year. It is an invaluable opportunity, and students learn and develop many skills through the experience.  Please see Jenny Zahra – Careers Advisor for further assistance.

Ms Jenny Zarah

Pathways Co-ordinator Sydenahm

Headstart

This year government schools across Brimbank and Melton have been participating in the state-wide introduction of Head Start to students in Years 10 and 11. The program supports senior secondary students to enter into a part-time apprenticeship or traineeship whilst completing their VCAL certificate. A Head Start mentor, such as Maria Cox who is based at the school, supports the student, parent, employer and school to work together; ensuring successful completion of the apprenticeship in 3-4 years’ time.

Earlier this year our first Head Start apprenticeship, Jordan Fraser, signed up with his workplace learning employer: Westside Cabinets. Jordan demonstrated exceptional skill and a mature attitude in the workplace and was given the opportunity to work two days a week. Jordan is still required to meet the demands of Intermediate VCAL and completing theory and practical learning at Victoria Polytechnic. This is why the HeadStart program is a select entry program. Students must have school endorsement and a strong career interest to enter into HeadStart. They are also required to have the skills to meet the literacy and numeracy requirements of a Certificate III vocational study.

By the time this newsletter comes out a second Head Start student will have started work as a trainee Childcare worker in Melton. Her work and study will be combined and allow her to work additional days in 2020.

For more information about HeadStart contact cox.maria.a@edumail.vic.gov.au

Ms Maria Cox

Headstart Mentor