Posted on 06/11/15 in
Emily Picken is not your average year 11 high school student. Emily is undertaking a school-based apprenticeship as a female in a traditional trade.
Inspired by her family who are successful in their own careers, Emily made the brave decision to follow her passion and commence a Certificate III Joinery.
“My father and brother are both in the construction industry so I want to follow in their footsteps, and be hands on in the field,” Emily said.
The opportunity arose when Emily took the initiative to undertake a Construction Course through Bacchus Marsh College. Following this course, she was recommended to her current employer by Australian School-based Apprenticeships Placements (ASAP), and was placed at Sovereign Hill to begin her school-based apprenticeship as a joiner.
School-based apprenticeships can get you a head start on your chosen vocational qualification by beginning your training and earning a wage while you continue to work towards your secondary school certificate.
The apprenticeship is undertaken on a part time basis and combines paid employment, off the job vocational training with a Registered Training Organisation, and secondary school studies.
Emily has successfully managed all these components, although she acknowledges that juggling it all can be difficult at times.
“VCE, work and trade school can be quite challenging at times, but I have been able to successfully complete year eleven and will go on to finish year twelve,” she said.
Emily’s commitment to her chosen career pathway will ultimately see her achieve her goals of owning her own business.
“I want to finish my school-based apprenticeship and go on to a full time job, where I aim to complete my qualification and work my way up to getting an Advanced Diploma in Building and Construction (Management).”
An increasing number of women are choosing to work in traditional trades across the country, and are finding great success thanks to their determination, eye for detail and overall commitment to the job.
For more information about school-based career options and to discuss the opportunities available contact Apprenticeships Support Australia on 1300 363 831