Cobram Secondary College has been listed as one of the top state schools for those seeking an apprenticeship.
The data, released by the Victorian government, has delighted CSC principal Kimberley Tempest.
“I was thrilled to see that CSC was listed as one of the top schools for students seeking an apprenticeship,” Ms Tempest said.
“Our careers team here at school are dedicated to working with our community (and) opening opportunities for our students.
“(Collaborating) with our community is vital in the success of school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.”
Currently CSC students are doing apprenticeships in childcare, automotive, engineering, hospitality, cabinet making, age care, construction, windows glass and glazing, horticulture, fabrication and dance.
Ms Tempest said that providing students the chance to do an apprenticeship was vital to ensure they were job ready upon leaving college.
“Apprenticeships give students an alternative pathway to reach their career goal, progress and upskill without having to return to a formal tertiary education institution,” she said.
“They can earn while they learn and make a key difference in their community.”
According to Ms Tempest, CSC initiated the apprenticeship programs upon hearing feedback from the community.
“Talking to the community and our families, there was a void that needed to be addressed,” she said.
“To keep our community growing, it is vital that they have trained personnel filling their vacancies, this secures the future of local businesses.”
CSC student Annie Oliver is one of the students currently engaged in an apprenticeship at the Punt Rd Kindergarten in Cobram.
She said that the best part of her apprenticeship is helping the kids develop.
“I enjoy being part of a team that is shaping young children’s minds. Helping them learn and grow in confidence and seeing the progress of each individual child,” Annie said.
The year 11 student believes apprenticeships allows students like her to gain vital experience.
“Doing a school based apprenticeship gives you a chance to be studying and working in your chosen workplace and that benefits each student to be able to gain full time employment in the future,” she said.
Annie is hoping to continue her apprenticeship and use it as a stepping stone for a career in a kindergarten.