The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training has signed up Bundaberg State High School for a new program to train students for jobs in the in-demand community services industry.
Minister for Training and Skills Development, Shannon Fentiman said the school was the first to take part in the new Community Services project, part of the Gateway to Industry Schools Program.
“This program lays the foundations for our young Queenslanders to gain valuable skills and knowledge before they walk out of the classroom,” Ms Fentiman said.
“Our overall investment of $2.7 million in this fantastic program links school kids with industry and gives them a taste of what a future in this sector would be like while gaining valuable skills.”
She said the Bundaberg students were the first to enrol, with more students expected to take part in the next group.
“This will mean that local students will have a fantastic head start in securing a job in aged care, disability services, education support and childcare — jobs that we know are in demand,” Ms Fentiman said.
“Our plan is to invest in the futures of young Queenslanders and make sure we have the skilled workforce for more jobs in more industries.”
The school’s Head of Vocational Education and Training, Jo McGrath said there were 57 students across Year 11 and 12 taking part in the project. They were undertaking Certificate II in Active Volunteering, Community Services or Health Support Services as part of the project.
“For many students, this leads to further studies at a Certificate III and higher qualifications, enabling them to continue their involvement in the community services sector,” Ms McGrath said.
“Plans are under way to connect students and teachers with more industry employers next year to enable the students to undertake 20 days of work experience in aged care nursing homes, disability services, education support and child care as part of the program.”
