In a recent interview, we spoke with Jade Cranton, Centre Manager at Camp Rumbug Foster, about her experience hosting work experience and group placements. Having successfully hosted placements in 2024, Jade shares insights into providing valuable hands-on learning opportunities. She’s also excited to welcome another group of students for 2025, continuing her commitment to supporting the next generation of professionals.
Can you tell us a little bit about Camp Rumbug and what it offers to students during work placements? “The hope is that the program gives students an insight into working life. We go through the interview process and provide feedback, complete inductions that includes not only site specific information but also detailed safeguarding and health a safety information. Students are then embraced by the team and are paired up with colleagues depending on the department they are placed in.”
What do you believe are the key benefits for both the students and Camp Rumbug when it comes to hosting student placements? “It gives students a taste into different industries, builds confidence as they are working with people of all ages and from all over the world while being supported to challenge themselves and their thinking. PGL Camp Rumbug colleagues enjoy sharing their passion for the camp and industry with students and revived a great deal of satisfaction at the end of the program after seeing the growth.”
You’ve just started another work experience program this year. What are your goals for this new group of students? “By extending the program from a term to the semester we are hoping students gain a deeper understanding of our industry and learn more about themselves throughout the process. Sometimes knowing what you don’t want to do when you grow up is just as important, if not more so than knowing what you want to do. By exposing students different people from all walks of life across all of our departments we hope they leave Rumbug with more than they came with.”
What do you find most rewarding about being involved in work experience programs for secondary school students? “Supporting local youth and giving them opportunities is something that we are fortunate to be able to offer, hearing that due to the program students are more confident to go for their first jobs, apply for apprenticeships or have a deeper understanding of what the next steps are for them, is a privilege to be a part of.”
What would you say to other employers who might be considering hosting work placements for students? “These students are potentially your next employee, colleague or even boss. We only grow from opportunities and I believe being a part of the program, while sometimes challenging can only be a positive thing. The support from the school and LLEN is amazing and nothing is ever too hard. You’ve got nothing to lose and these students have everything to gain, so why wouldn’t you be a part of it?”
If you’re an employer looking to put on a placement Jade is happy to be contacted for any questions you may have.
jade.cranton@plgadventurecamps.com.au
