Sienna Shields is encouraging other youngsters to embrace School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) to further their careers.
Her praise comes as a report revealed students at 25 schools across the Hunter were benefiting from the NSW Government initiative designed to improve education and career outcomes for young people.
As part of the Educational Pathways Program (EPP), one facility – Callaghan College – Jesmond Senior Campus – has enrolled 102 pupils in SBATs, the most of any secondary institutes in NSW.
And, since joining the EPP in Term 1, 2022, it’s witnessed remarkable success in empowering its students.
The collaborative approach, facilitated by the program staff, led to further opportunities, including Ms Shields.
She undertook a Certificate III in Hairdressing as a school-based apprentice, working at WoW Hair in Wickham.
She’s now been in her apprenticeship for six months and was part of a team, which achieved first place in the Collaboration – Avant Garde Editorial competition at Hair Festival 2023.
“I love the creative freedom in hairdressing and how no two clients are the same,” Ms Shields said.
“The SBAT pathway allowed me to work on my passion as well as continuing school.
“I would highly-recommend SBATs to those who are considering one, especially if they want to try out a career path but are hesitant to leave school.”
By participating in the EPP, Callaghan College not only benefits its pupils but also strengthens partnerships with local employers and industry.
The initiative is designed to improve student outcomes by:
- Increasing their access to and participation in career learning and vocational education opportunities, including School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships
- Strengthening careers advice
- Expanding opportunities to engage with post-school VET programs
- Creating opportunities to meet local employers and learn about career pathways
- Offering nationally recognised VET courses
- Building job-ready skills
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Tim Crakanthorp admitted the record number of SBATs at Callaghan was a wonderful milestone.
“It really demonstrates what you can achieve when students’ passions are matched with dedicated teachers and the right support,” the Newcastle MP said.
“The NSW Government’s EEP is empowering pupils to turn their interests into careers, while fostering valuable links between schools and local industry.
“School-based apprenticeships are opening doors for young people, building their skills to enter the workforce and matching them with the skills needs of our state.”
Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery agreed.
“SBATs are vital to ensure that all of our kids have a chance to learn a trade and build a career if university isn’t the best option for them,” she said.
“The future is pointing towards the growth of a number of sectors in which trades are needed including care, mass building of housing and construction, health care and education.
“To have more than 100 enrolled students at Jesmond is such a wonderful indication of the success of these programs.
“So, I thank the Minister for his vital support for these initiatives.”
Callaghan College – Jesmond Senior Campus principal James Ostermann said the EPP aligned perfectly with its vision.
“We believe in providing our students with every opportunity to succeed,” he explained.
“The additional resources and support have proven invaluable in helping them explore their career options and develop essential skills for the future.”
For more information on the Educational Pathways Program, visit education.nsw.gov.au.
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