Charged with the task of raising SBAT participation in pilot schools, the EPPP SBAT Mentors will be key to strengthening the ability of schools to implement targeted guidance for students and build industry/employer partnerships to broker SBAT employment.

The mentors are currently undertaking a rigorous orientation program which provides foundational information about the SBAT program, student mentoring, HSC requirements, partnership and promotional strategies, and apprenticeship and traineeship policy and implementation. They also met on 10 June with the Hon. Dr Geoff Lee, Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education to present a short introduction of what they each bring to the new role.

While it’s been a whirlwind first two weeks for the mentors, it’s been a fantastic opportunity to discuss strategies to engage schools, businesses and communities in school based apprenticeships and traineeships.

Meet the EPPP SBAT Mentors

Toni Bellos – Ballina

Most recently Employment Services Manager with TAFE NSW on the Smart, Skilled & Hired Youth Employment Program, Toni has extensive experience in employment and recruitment roles including a management position with a Group Training Organisation.

Toni is extremely passionate about creating employment opportunities for young people and believes understanding a young person's interests and career goals, as well as listening to employer needs, is key to successful outcomes.

Stephen Montgomery – Grafton

Steve was recently Pathways Officer for RDA Mid North Coast and Industry Liaison for the STEM Industry School Partnerships (SISP) Program, facilitating partnerships with industry, tertiary and local government.

Steve has multiple years’ experience in regional development, careers, work placement, student transition and industry partnerships.

Suzanne Taylor – South-western Sydney

Suzanne brings 10 years’ experience in the NSW SBAT program. Most recently she was employed as a SBAT Officer in the Ultimo School Services Directorate, providing support for 54 South-west Sydney government schools.

Suzanne is a passionate advocate for positive employment outcomes for young people.

Fiona McKinnon – South-western Sydney

Fiona was most recently an Employment and Career Partner with a Group Training Organisation providing comprehensive pastoral care and support for Apprentices and Trainees. Fiona has a proven ability to broker job opportunities in south-west Sydney.

Fiona was previously a Community Engagement Officer at Sarah Redfern High School where she combined her passion for education and community to develop partnerships between school, local business and wider community to provide opportunities for students.