Encouraging business to host secondary school students

STRUCTURED Workplace Learning provides secondary students with the opportunity to integrate on-the-job work experience with their VET studies.

Ballarat businesses, interested in learning of the mutual benefits of engaging SWL students, can hear more about the program at a Working with Young People workshop next week.

Visit Ballarat and Highlands Local Learning and Employment Network are jointly hosting the workshop on Monday, 25 February to showcase the importance of having secondary students involved in local business.

The workshop delivered by Lyndel Nash, Highlands LLEN’s structured workplace learning coordinator, will discuss the benefits of having a SWL student on the team, how easy it is to become a host employer and tips for working effectively with young people.

Information on School Based Apprenticeships, which enable secondary students to combine part-time employment, school and training will also be on the agenda.

A current host employer will share first-hand their experiences and successes achieved while taking part in the SWL program.

Students studying Vocational Education and Training, VET, as part of their Year 10, 11 and 12 studies qualify for SWL placement with employers.

“Students can engage in SWL in blocks of time or one day a week for up to 20 weeks at a cost of $5 per day to the business and all SWL students are fully insured,” said Ms Nash.

The workshop will be held on Monday, February 25 at the Ballarat Golf Club, 1800 Sturt Street between 2pm and 3pm.

Afternoon tea and networking opportunities are included.

Tickets are free for Visit Ballarat members and $15 for non-members and bookings can be made through Eventbrite.