Headstart

2020 wasn’t the easiest of years, for the obvious reason. Students, small business and large business all had periods of uncertainty and still do. All aspects of life as we knew it changed. Students in particular saw a significant change in their day to day life and to their credit they stepped up, learnt knew methods quickly and built skills that will help them in future study and employment.

Despite the pandemic, the Head Start Apprenticeships and Traineeships program, offered by the Department of Education, placed and continues to support 55 students across the Barwon region in an apprenticeship/traineeship.

So what is Head Start?

Head Start provides students a pathway to a career while gaining their high school qualification. Students spend more time doing relevant, paid, on the job training with a flexible approach to school studies. The program helps students to develop skills and experience that employer’s value.

How is Head Start different to other School Based Apprenticeships/Traineeships?

A dedicated Coordinator will work with the student until they complete their apprenticeship/traineeship, not just till the end of year 12.

What is a Head Start coordinator?

We build employer and industry connections to source and support the delivery of Head Start in the local area. Head Start Coordinators are integral to the success of the program providing a point of coordination for students and employers.

Head Start coordinators:

• match the right student with the right employer – we see this as critical to the success of the program
• mentor the student to ensure they are job ready
• support students and employers through to the completion of their apprenticeship or traineeship (not just until they finish school)
• develop tailored Head Start pathway agreements for each apprentice or trainee
• work with employers and Head Start schools to identify suitable opportunities
• provide a point of coordination for students, employers, schools and training providers
• ensure workplaces offer quality learning experiences for students.

The success of the program relies on strong, trusting relationships with students and employers in the local area.

Qualifications are available in a range of industries, so if you’re a student looking for a pathway into employment, a parent looking for a secure future for your child, or an employer looking for your next apprentice, contact the Careers & Pathways Team at your Victorian State Government School about the Head Start Program! Please click this link to view a Head Start program overview video -https://vimeo.com/369449825/0d...