Mount Gambier High School Year 9 students have taken part in a Career Exploration Day at the school. A number of industry representatives were invited to facilitate Q&A panels, presentations and workshops to showcase the many career pathways available in the Limestone Coast.
The Career Exploration Day was designed by Mount Gambier High School Vocational Pathways Coordinator Eluisa Crispino to help students discover, develop and drive their career planning. Regional Development Board’s Lance Pedlow started the day with a presentation about jobs in the area and career pathways currently trending.
Students then sectioned off into smaller groups to participate in industry specific practical workshops and information sessions held by industry professionals such as Senior Constable Jade Hill talking about careers in the police force, Madeleine Brookes provided insight to jobs in the tourism and events sectors, Luke Norman showcased what plumbing jobs were in the pipeline) and Sergio Crispino sparked interest in electrical employment, while Scott Cram discussed primary industries, Ashlee Kalantarian showcased creative design and Don Pratt served up hospitality insight.
A number of students also travelled off-site during the day to experience workshops at Carlin and Gazzard, TAFE SA Automotive and The Bay Pizzeria. Ms Crispino said employability and enterprise skills were highlighted by all presenters with a common understanding that communication, literacy and numeracy were essential in any career pathway.
“Mount Gambier High School is appreciative of the time that each of the industry representatives spent contributing to the day,” she said. “It was a unique opportunity for our students to learn more about their strengths and abilities while exploring potential career options – giving them the confidence to start taking control of their future.
“As we look forward to 2022 students will have options of selecting Flexible Industry Pathways which will offer more industry tours, immersions and explorations as part their continuing education.” Student Zariah Neimz took part in a workshop at The Bay Pizzeria.
“My experience participating in The Bay Pizzeria workshop with Jason Jackson helped me consider the skills and planning that goes into creating a successful hospitality business,” she said. “I learnt that it does not matter how long it takes for you to figure out what you would like to do, as long as you love it.”
Her enthusiasm was shared by fellow student Trent Malin. “It was great to hear from the industry professionals that you can take your interests and passions and turn them into a small business or career pathway,” he said.
