Helping Sunshine Coast youth get the right training and then get a job is so important.
There are big changes in vocational education and training (VET) which aim to do just this with the $615 million 2014/14 funding training in priority areas – where the jobs are. For information visit: http://www.training.qld.gov.au/resources/information/pdf/vet-investment-plan.pdf
Under our new contestable approach to VET, both public and private providers are eligible to offer government subsidised training. This means that young people have more options to select the training provider that best suits their needs.
Here are a some useful websites to help young people explore what training options are available:
1. Young people can find out about courses and funding options via the Skills Gateway at www.skillsgateway.training.qld.gov.au.
2. Year 12 students can apply for fee-free training in priority areas within a year of leaving a school at http://www.training.qld.gov.au/training-organisations/funded-programs/certificate3/index.html.
3. School students can undertake a school based apprenticeship and VET in schools (VETiS).
For more information visit: http://education.qld.gov.au/students/placement/vet/.
4. The Gateway Schools program provides industry relevant training in the six priority areas of agribusiness; building and construction; manufacturing and engineering; food wine and tourism; aerospace; and minerals and energy.
Maroochydore High School is just one of the 100 state schools which offer this program. Each year approximately 30 students graduate from Maroochydore High with a Certificate III in Tourism (Wine Tourism) which provides local hospitality and tourism enterprises with skilled work-ready employees.
To find out more about Gateway Schools, visit: http://www.gatewayschools.qld.gov.au/.
5. The Community Learning Program provides support for disadvantaged learners to participate in and complete VET qualifications up to and including a Certificate III. These courses are delivered in less formal, community based settings to ensure training is specifically tailored to the individual learners’ circumstances and abilities, work ambitions and local activities.
For more information on the Community Learning Program, visit: http://www.training.qld.gov.au/information/investing-in-skills/community-learning/index.html
