“The experience of working on a project, within an industry setting, is a vital component in the Passions & Pathways program. It was great to see students excited about going to school. The projects have the potential to empower a student to want to take their place in the world, to be an active participant in life.”

-Sally Thompson, Bendigo Pottery

“I undertook Structured Workplace Learning at Hazeldenes Chicken Farm as a diesel mechanic. Jobs I undertook included general servicing, watching and assisting the mechanics with brakes, airbags, parts replacements and lots more. The blokes I worked with were terrific and I appreciated the patience they showed while I was there. I am exceptionally grateful for these people giving me this opportunity.”

-Student, Castlemaine Secondary College

“Our Structured Workplace Learning student was very eager to learn new skills and a pleasure to have with us. He was always willing to listen and learn. We wish him all the best for the future.”

-Office Manager, Bunnings Epsom

"The student was often in my office disengaged and in trouble from problems that had occurred in class. We met with him and his mother and discussed the possibility of a Structured Workplace Learning arrangement with the Goldfields LLEN. Over the two-term placement, he consistently looked forward to his Thursdays at Bunnings, and his engagement and behaviour at school improved dramatically."

-Teacher, Bendigo South East College

“The YIA program is a great opportunity for young employees to really make an impact in our community, just by sharing their story. As an employer of YIAs over a number of years, I’ve found it not only makes a difference to the student, but to the employee as well. They learn a great deal from the training and gain maturity by stepping up to become a leader. I would recommend it to young people and their employers in any sector.”

-Employer of a Young Industry Ambassador, Bendigo