Six new ambassadors to join the program in 2022
The expanded Educational Pathways Program will see 6 new ambassadors join the current cohort of NSW Training Awards Ambassadors to help promote vocational education and training.
13 December 2021
The Training Award Ambassadors are selected from finalists and winners of the NSW Training Awards. They join a team of nine ambassadors who have assisted in delivering the program across 24 schools in south-west Sydney and the North Coast regions since 2020.
Each of the 15 ambassadors hail from different parts of NSW and they share a common belief in the value of Vocational Education and Training (VET), sharing their stories to inspire other young people to achieve their goals.
From Term 1 2022, the Educational Pathways Program will expand to include 9 regions across NSW. These new ambassadors will play a vital role in the program; visiting schools, speaking with High School Students and parents to highlight the opportunities, pathways and benefits offered in VET through their own unique stories and achievements.
Chelsea McInnes, 2021 NSW School Based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year, attended Alstonville High School, one of the current pilot schools. As State winners of the 2021 NSW Training Awards, Ethan, (who is also joining the program), and Chelsea took part in this year's Professional Development week for the NSW Training Awards.
The Professional development week kicked off with a welcome from Geoff Lee, Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education and David Collins, A/Executive Director Skills and Higher Education.
The workshops covered a range of topics such as:
Wellness & mindfulness training
Media training
Deep dive into VET and Training Services NSW
Mock interview preparation for the Australian Training Awards
They also took part in a video and photoshoot that will be utilised to promote applications for the 2022 Training Awards.
The 6 ambassadors joining Educational Pathways Program are:
Qualification: Certificate II in Hospitality
Trained by: Public Schools NSW, Tamworth
Employed by: The Trident Fish & Grill
School: Alstonville High School
"My SBAT was the best career move. It's increased my confidence and wellbeing. If you're looking for a way to have it all – your HSC, extra qualifications and paid work, I highly recommend it! The benefits are endless. I also encourage employers to think about giving a school student a job. I believe we have a lot to learn from each other!"
Qualification: Certificate III in Live Production and Services
Trained by: Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta
Employed by: AMP
School: St Mark's Catholic College
"Every person is unique, so are the ways we learn. A standard HSC to university pathway isn't the best option for all. Without alternative pathways, young people may slip through the cracks and lose a sense of purpose. VET gives people like me the skills and qualifications to become valuable contributors to society."
Qualification: Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
Trained by: TAFE NSW
Employed by: Tetsuya's Restaurant
School: Blaxland High School
“I can’t believe an SBAT isn’t at the forefront of everyone’s mind when looking to the future. I’ve been so supported by my family, friends, employer and teachers. Now I’m on the way to achieving my dream of becoming a chef. I couldn't be happier.”
Qualification: Certificate III in Business Administration
Trained by: TAFE NSW
Employed by: Southern Youth and Family Services Ltd
“I started a new chapter in my life,” says Maddison. “I come from a low socioeconomic background. Daily, my family would fight over who gets to wear the best school uniform and shoes without holes. I knew this qualification would provide me with the skills I needed for success. This qualification has changed me for the better. Being able to successfully complete my certificate within my original training contract term is my greatest career achievement yet.”
Qualification: Certificate III in Business
Trained by: Training Australia Pty Ltd
“My biggest takeaway has been learning how to develop my interpersonal skills and build strong workplace relationships,” says Ricky. “I’ve been exposed to industry leaders absorbing their management practices and work ethic while my studies have been critical in equipping me with the skills to communicate with multiple stakeholders.”
Qualification: Certificate III in Electrotechnology - Electrician
Trained by: TAFE NSW
Employed by: HVTC Pty Ltd
Hosted by: BlueScope Steel Limited
“I attended an all-girls school,” says Tay. “There was a distinct lack of career pathways presented to women who showed interest in male-dominated careers. There’s a stigma around heavy industry that discourages talented women. I want to play a part in changing that.”
- News