Shed builds on basics to fast-track construction careers

14/3/07
The construction of a basic, 400sqm shed, conveniently located in the middle of one of Perth's rapidly developing suburbs, is providing up to 100 additional students with the opportunity to fast-track their building and construction careers.
Opening the 'Shed at Brighton' in Butler today, Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan said the development of the innovative facility was a Western Australian first.
"This shed will provide about 90 students with the opportunity to learn basic skills in bricklaying, plastering, floor and wall tiling each year," Mr McGowan said.
The Minister said the State Government had partnered with local industry to develop the shed, which was the result of a very basic concept designed to meet the needs of industry and address the State's skills shortage.
"The rapid growth of the northern suburbs has led to increased demand for local training facilities," he said.
"It was suggested that industry could be greatly assisted if some land were provided, a shed was constructed and training courses were developed to fast-track local students into the building and construction sectors.
"The land and shed were supplied by Brighton Estate Joint Venture, which includes the Satterley Property Group, the Alcock-Brown-Neaves Group, Home Building Society and the State Government, and training is provided by West Coast and Swan TAFEs.
"What has resulted is a fantastic facility delivered in partnership with industry, Government and the local community.
"The decision to get behind this project was driven by the State Government's ongoing commitment to invest in the future of the State's economy."
Mr McGowan said the initiative was a great example of the State Government's school leaving age legislation in action.
"There are currently 24 Year 11 students from Clarkson Community High School benefiting from the program, all of whom are hoping to get apprenticeships in the building industry once they finish school," he said.
"Each student spends two days at school, two days in the shed and one day in workplace learning.
"This is one of many successful programs around the State contributing to 16-year-olds staying on in school and training.
"In fact, the latest figures show 97 per cent of WA 16-year-olds are in school, in training, an apprenticeship or traineeship, or employed.
"The shed is a great example of the State Government's commitment to boosting Western Australians' skills to take advantage of the State's unprecedented economic boom."
The initiative is supported by the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund (BCITF), Alcock Brown-Neaves Training Group (ABN), City of Wanneroo and the Brighton Estate Residents Association.
Minister's office 9222 9111