How can your students get involved in National Skills Week? Just a few suggestions – check out the Schools Kit 2024 here or at the bottom of this page.
Here are just some initial ideas to get you thinking:
Spotlight on SBATs – School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBATs) are an opportunity to gain a VET qualification and undertake paid employment as part of the Higher School Certificate. Facilitate current and previous school-based apprentices and trainees to talk about the program and their experiences. It’s also an opportunity to invite the local SBAT representative to discuss how to get started.
Bring in the experts – Examples include:
- an Australian VETAmbassador
- a local apprentice who has completed their apprenticeship
- a representative from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) or Group Training Organisation (GTO)
- employers who represent different industries
- representatives from industry associations
- Work with the class to scaffold a series of questions to the guests and encourage them to ask their questions in front of peers.
- If the experts can’t be there face to face, look at how Skype or Video conferencing technologies can be used to bring industry experts to school!
Employers breakfast – Use National Skills Week as an opportunity to invite industry to the school to develop schools/industry partnerships. Target organisations that students are interested in finding out more about or where they might like to work in the future. An event such as an Employers Breakfast is also an opportunity for the VET Hospitality class to showcase their VET skills by providing catering.
Family career maps – Ask students to map a selection of family members’ career pathways to present to peers. Example Dad: Completed a glazier apprenticeship after 4 years, worked with Johnson’s building supplies as a glazier for 7 years, opened his own business as a handyman, and is now his own boss. Students may illustrate their presentation with photos, videos, artefacts from different industries.
Rotary / Community Organisations– Contact your local Rotary or community organisation, many of the members are small employers and local business people, . You will find local community clubs are always willing to help, provide some ideas and support. Don’t forget your local community newspaper, let them know what your students are doing, get some positive publicity for your school and your students.
For more information or if you want to brainstorm some ideas: Please contact Anne Cazar 0438 808 848 or email anne.cazar@skillsone.com.au.
