29/11/03
An innovative new TAFEWA program is helping boost the future employment opportunities for Year Nine and Ten students in the north metropolitan region.
Speaking at the 'Stepping Up' Showcase Celebration this morning, Education and Training Minister Alan Carpenter said the program was aimed at retaining students in some form of education and training.
"West Coast College of TAFE's Stepping Up program provides Year Nine and Ten students with study choices that are attractive and relevant to their particular needs and interests," Mr Carpenter said.
"This helps to motivate the students to continue their education through involvement in expanded education and training opportunities."
Mr Carpenter said the program made a great contribution to the State Government's commitment to maximising the education and training opportunities for young people.
"The days when young people could leave school at fifteen and hope to find sustainable employment are gone," he said.
"We currently have too many young people not engaged in any form of education or training, which will significantly limit their future employability prospects.
"This is why we need innovative programs such as Stepping Up to inspire even the most reluctant learners to seize the lifelong opportunities that only education and training can bring.
"Stepping Up is about making learning an engaging option for students.
"The program builds confidence and self esteem while at the same time providing practical skills development.
"The learning outcomes for Stepping Up are integrated into the school curriculum and also provide pathways to TAFEWA courses, making the program meaningful to students."
Mr Carpenter said students combined traditional schooling with attendance at West Coast College of TAFE one day a week in a range of industry areas, including sport and recreation, hospitality, information technology, and beauty therapy.
"You have only to speak with the students who have participated in the program to see how successful it has been," the Minister said.
"They are motivated, rediscovering their passion for learning and committed to getting into further vocational education and training."
Stepping Up is the result of a collaborative approach between West Coast College of TAFE, the West Coast Education District Services Centre and local schools.
"I congratulate all involved in developing this initiative, and I wish the students the very best for their future careers," the Minister said.
Minister's office: 9213 6800
