School-based apprentices get a career advantage thanks to South32
South32 TEMCO has generously supported students from Port Dalrymple School currently participating in a school-based apprenticeship program. The students are employed by KEEN Partners in engineering trade apprenticeships and placed with a number of George Town and Bell Bay-based engineering businesses.
South32 has provided financial support to help offset TasTAFE fees that are part of the program. South32’s support has also provided tool kits for each of the students, removing an additional financial burden. The offset of TasTAFE fees reduces part of the employment costs, making it easier for local employers to give apprentices an opportunity to get into the workplace.
CEO of KEEN Partners, Ray Mostogl said: “This sponsorship from South32 has helped position these school-based apprenticeship offerings amongst the best value opportunities in the industry”.
Anna-May Fauconnier, TEMCO Vice President Operations said: “South32 TEMCO is really pleased to be able to support Port Dalrymple School students to learn new skills and gain employment. I wish all of the students that have participated in this fantastic collaborative initiative the best of luck as they move forward into their careers.”
Port Dalrymple School, Principal Jeanna Bolton thank South32 and KEEN Partners for their continued support of students in the senior secondary sector and connecting students with their future career pathways.
School Based Apprenticeships enable students to not only study Years 11 and 12 but gain their TCE and an apprenticeship qualification at the same time. Many of the Port Dalrymple School senior secondary students hope to gain employment in their local community so this is a wonderful initiative for our students.
Ray adds, “School-based apprenticeships are a great way for secondary school students to continue on with their Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) goals while gaining credits towards a Certificate III Trade qualification.”
A school-based apprentice will complete their Certificate III earlier and therefore may, in some circumstances, be able to earn a trade pay rate up to one year earlier than someone who starts an apprenticeship after leaving Grade 12.