Course aims to jump start an interest in cars

A HANDS-on mechanical course run out of local workshop is seeking to give young people a chance to explore working on cars as a potential career option.

The Y Ballarat’s Jump Start Automotive Program takes place each term and aims to support people between the ages of 14 and 24 who are not engaged by traditional educational models, or are unemployed.

“The key thing is engagement,” facilitator Louise Rippon said. “It’s somewhere to learn, but without the theory of an accredited course.

“Jump Start is all about welcoming young people in, getting them busy and engaged, all while trying out the automotive industry, and seeing how things work.

“They discover how tools work, how to change a tyre, pull an engine apart and put it back together, how to change oils, and get things back up and running, like an old lawnmower.

“It’s safe, hands-on learning through doing, and getting your hands dirty.”

The sessions are led by a qualified mechanic who is also an automotive teacher and assessor, and a youth worker is present to assist.

Ms Rippon said participants may see themselves pursuing a career in automotive, but that’s not essential to take part.

“It’s even beneficial for those who have, or are about to get their own car, so they can learn the basics of changing a tyre, or oil,” she said.

“For the older group of people taking part, this can be a helpful pathway if they’re looking to go into further study, pre-apprenticeships, or jobs.

“For the younger participants, it’s all about keeping them engaged and interested in the industry, and feedback we’ve received has said some participants’ school attendance has improved because Jump Start breaks up their week.”

Participants can be referred to the program by another person, and once on the list they attend two three-hour sessions per week.