A PROGRAM that helps Whitsundays teenagers transition into work or training is gaining momentum.
The Get Set for Work program provides disadvantaged young Queenslanders, aged 15 to 19, with nationally recognised training, to enable them to successfully transition to employment and/or further education and training.
Recently, seven young people graduated from the course, which is facilitated by PCYC Whitsunday.
The program funded a range of certifications for participants on this intake, including Construction White Cards, barista certifications and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA).
Participants successfully completed a foundational skills related Certificate II and the program also funded four Learner licences, so they can get to interviews and a job.
Industry visits included Bunnings, Tassal Prawn Farm, Wilmar Sugar Australia, Big W, TAFE and McDonalds.
Work experience was once again a component for this intake and host organisations included Porters Mitre 10, Red Emperor Constructions, Cruise Whitsundays, Whitsunday Regional Council, Airlie Beach Welding & Fabrication, Whitsundays Master Butchers, Friendly Grocer (Jubilee Pocket) and Sidewalk Café (Airlie Beach).
Youth Club Program Manager Sergeant Billy Li said participants went on to find work in the local retail, hospitality and embroidery industries.
“Congratulations and great work to all of our graduates, it’s an incredible feeling watching these young people develop and mature over such a short period of time,” he said.
“I would like to acknowledge all our stakeholders and program sponsors for their support and making a massive difference to the young people in our community.
“I’m excited to announce that funding for the program has recently been renewed from the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, for the year 2024-2025, which will greatly benefit the young people in our community.”
Program Co-ordinator Scott Lynch said it was always fantastic to see a fresh batch of participants graduate the program, with many of them starting new jobs or entering further study and training.
“After 10 weeks of intensive training, they’re ready to go,” he said.
“I believe it’s also a proud moment for the mums and dads too, as they often tell us at the event how much change they’ve seen in their teenager over the 10 weeks they’ve been attending.
“When participants first start the program, they’re often behaving like school kids, which is to be expected.
“When they finish, their maturity has significantly grown, they’ve dropped the school kid persona, and I can see that they’re well on their way to becoming responsible young men and women. It’s a pleasure to see.”
The Get Set for Work program is part of the ‘Skilling Queenslanders for Work’ initiative and assists disadvantaged Queenslanders to gain skills, qualifications and experience to enter and stay in the workforce.
The next intake starts on July 8, will run for approximately 10 weeks, and the PCYC is still taking applications.
Email Sergeant Billy Li at billy.li@pcyc.org.au.
