Students demonstrating trade training in the workplace

Students from secondary colleges throughout South Gippsland and Bass Coast are demonstrating their Vocational Education Training (VET) in structured work placements with local businesses. The Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) program is funded by the Department of Education (DET) and delivered by South Gippsland Bass Coast Local Learning & Employment Network (SGBCLLEN). The SWL program enables students undertaking VET access to appropriate SWL placements as part of their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and Victorian Certificate of Applied learning (VCAL).

The SWL program facilitates engagement between schools and employers, and supports schools to source local SWL placements for difficult to place students whilst identifying local needs and industry priorities for appropriate SWL placements.

An online state wide SWL placement portal has been in operation since 2016 and has streamlined the placement process. Businesses can access the portal to create SWL placement opportunities, students can access placements from the portal and schools then have a reduced amount of administration. Karena Kerr SWL program Coordinator said “the portal offers significant benefits to students as they will also have the ability to access SWL placements outside the region. Schools also have assistance with difficult to find placements and benefit from a more time efficient system”.

Students Reece Stark, Peter Gillian and Toby Clifton are currently undertaking Certificate II Automotive one day per week as part of their VET. These boys also participate in placements with local automotive businesses where they put their learning to practical use in a workshop environment.

Students participating in VET complete accredited training that can assist with future employment and further training opportunities. Reece, Peter and Toby all aspire to be mechanics, so this pathway is a fantastic way to develop their skills and get on the job training whilst they are at school. Toby Clifton said “The new Trade Skills Centre has amazing equipment and the latest technology for us to work with and l think the knowledge and skills l learn here will set me up for my career as a mechanic”.

If you are a student, parent, from business or the community and require further information regarding SWL, the SGTSA or VET please contact Karena Kerr SGBCLLEN 5662 5500

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