Students in years 11 and 12 will have a chance to learn a trade and help build new homes in Point Cook following the launch of the Simonds Building and Trade Program.
The program, a joint initiative of education provider SEDA, the Builders Academy and building company Simonds, will allow students to complete year 12 and a pre-apprenticeship.
Students will work on houses being built by Simonds in Point Cook, learning carpentry, bricklaying, wall and floor tiling and plastering. They’ll spend one day a week on work placement and another day working in the community completing hands-on projects directly linked to their learning.
SEDA director Chris Reidy said the program would help students develop knowledge and practical skills across various trades.
“Students will have the opportunity to gain first-hand industry experience while learning from industry experts,” he said.
Launching the program last Tuesday, AFL legend Kevin Sheedy, a licensed plumber, said the program would help students who wanted hands-on learning, allowing them to choose their preferred trade and employment pathways. The program also has the support of the federal government.
Assistant Education Minister Sussan Ley said students who took part in the program would learn key ‘employability’ skills such as organisation, teamwork and initiative.
She said the program aimed to create “five-star apprentices for five-star employees”.
“Vocational education and training in schools must be responsive to industry needs to ensure students have the skills they need for real jobs in the real economy,” she said.
More details of the program are available at www.sedagroup.com.au.
