Skillset

What?!? 400+ students, 30+ businesses, unis, and training providers for the inaugural Orana Youth Forum, crazy!

Great to meet so many youth keen to kick-start their career journey with an apprenticeship or traineeship, or to find out what support there is as they transition from school to whatever life has.

How things change! Originally part of the Town Square, then from 1860-1889 part of the All Saints Church of England Denominational School, a bank from the 1950s, and from 2025, Skillset's new Bathurst offices!

Congratulations to Scott Camery Welding for being named Skillset’s Host of the Month for October!

Scott Camery Welding was nominated for this award due to the outstanding support, patience, and trade knowledge provided to the current and previous apprentices in your workshop. The apprentices have spoken highly of the supportive environment fostered by Danny, Rick, and the other tradesmen, which has significantly helped them understand the trade and grow their skills.

Thank you, Jodie, Danny and the team for your continued partnership and contribution to life-changing opportunities!

Happy International Teacher's Day!

Shout out to the amazing teachers at Skillset Senior College in Bathurst and Dubbo! You work wonders every day, guiding students with patience, humour, and a lot of heart.

Your one-on-one support, built on friendship and guidance, helps each student overcome their challenges and reach their full potential. You’re a constant source of encouragement and make a world of difference in their lives.

Work experience goes beyond just trying out different careers - it's a critical opportunity for students to uncover their passions and develop essential skills. Studies show that hands-on learning significantly improves young people's ability to make informed career choices, boosts confidence, and strengthens work readiness.

In regional NSW, only 40% of students get the chance to participate in meaningful work experience, making it even more crucial to provide these opportunities. Connecting with local businesses can bridge this gap, supporting students with the skills they need to succeed.

Here are some stories from our Career Connections Work Experience Program, funded by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal as part of the Strengthening Rural Communities initiative:

Akira from Bathurst High spent a week at Clancy Motors, where her curiosity and hands-on approach impressed Ray, the Service Manager. She even got to work on motors!

Ben from Kelso High completed a bricklaying work experience with Waters Bricklaying. Ben worked hard worked hard and gained valuable insights about the trade.

Lily had a fantastic week assisting with dog grooms at Bohdi Beach Pet Grooming. The welcoming, supportive environment made her experience fun and educational.

This program is designed to help Year 10 students overcome barriers and connect with local businesses for meaningful work experiences. We’re proud to be part of this life-changing initiative and incredibly grateful to our wonderful hosts and community for making it possible!

Life-Changing Moment: From Apprentice to Host

Chris, the owner of Chris McLean Painting in Orange, began his career as a Skillset apprentice, completing his trade in 2021. Now, he’s giving back by hosting his own 1st-year apprentice.

Reflecting on his experience, Chris shared, “It’s great to see the support from both sides. As an apprentice, I knew I could rely on my consultant, and now as a host, Jacqui checks in regularly. Skillset looks after both of us.”

Chris’s journey shows how Skillset supports people throughout every stage, from learning a trade to helping the next generation get started.

Thank you to our hosts for trusting us to support their business and help develop the next generation of skilled professionals. Together, we’re creating opportunities and contributing to the future of regional NSW.

Dig into your future! Join us for our upcoming Information Night to learn about exciting School-Based Apprenticeship opportunities with Skillset and Ulan Coal, Glencore!

To learn more and to register your attendance please head to https://skillset.com.au/glencore

Don’t miss this chance to explore how you can start a rewarding school-based apprenticeship with Skillset and Ulan Coal, Glencore, in Mudgee.

We attended the 2024 Apprentice Employment Network NSW & ACT Group Training Awards last Friday night, which recognises outstanding achievements in apprenticeship and traineeship programs.

Congratulations to Imogen Lowe, who was a finalist for School-Based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year! She is doing great work in her traineeship in Early Childhood Education and Care at Towri MACS Centre.

We also congratulate Johnsons Towing and Mechanical, a finalist for Small Host of the Year. Their commitment to mentoring apprentices is commendable.

Congratulations to all the winners announced during the evening!

Jump-start Your Career with a School-Based Apprenticeship in the Mines!

Skillset, in partnership with Glencore Ulan Coal, is now accepting applications for Mechanical Engineering and Electrotechnology School-Based Apprenticeships, starting in Ulan, NSW, in January 2025. This is an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience, earn while you learn, and be mentored by industry experts—all while completing your HSC!

What You’ll Be Doing:
180 days of paid, on-the-job training at Ulan Coal over two years.
Two days of training each week (1 day at Ulan Coal and 1 day at TAFE) during the school term.
Additional training at Ulan Coal during the school holidays.

Applications close on 3rd November 2024.

Visit www.skillset.com.au/glencore to learn more and apply for these exciting opportunities with Skillset and Glencore!

This Week for Safety Month we are focused on proactively managing workplace risks

Let’s stay ahead of hazards by focusing on:

Identify Hazards
• Talk to workers
• Observe conditions
• Encourage reporting

Assess Risks
• Evaluate severity and likelihood.
• Consider combined risks.

Control the Risks
• Eliminate or minimise hazards
• Involve workers in solutions.

4. Monitor & Review
• Ensure controls are effective
• Adjust to new risks.

Together, we can create a safer workplace this Safety Month!

Zoe Stuart, a 1st-year Auto Electrical apprentice, is mastering her skills at TAFE, where she’s testing power on a 12v 50amp relay to wire up a light bar. Thanks to the supportive environment at Yancoal Moolarben Coal, Zoe is learning from experienced tradesmen who take the time to teach.

For Zoe, TAFE is not just about building a career but also gaining the confidence to work on her own car.