An innovative learning partnership is set to give secondary school students across East Gippsland and Wellington Shires new insights into local industry, jobs and career opportunities, igniting aspirations and helping to prepare tomorrow’s workforce.
Originating in 2013, Broadening Horizons was created to address the unique challenges faced by students in Gippsland compared to their peers in metro Melbourne, including lower school completion rates and higher youth unemployment.
More than 10 years on, the program has been reimagined through consultation with industry, education and community leaders.
Building on its success in offering real-life work-based learning opportunities for Gippsland’s youth, the program has been adapted to include formal work experience opportunities for year nine and 10 students.
“Broadening Horizons engages students in career conversations early, providing students in years seven through to 10 with exposure to career options and industries in Gippsland,” Broadening Horizons coordinator at Gippsland East LLEN, Kim Kleinitz said.
“The program has been proven to increase student engagement in their learning, through bridging the gap between the classroom and the workplace.
“During the program delivery, students learn about 21st century skills and the design thinking framework, then apply their learning to solve a real-world challenge presented by their industry partner.”
The benefits flow both ways, with local industry having a great platform to engage with young people on a range of important issues, attracting young people to their industry and providing mentoring opportunities for their own staff.
A program launch will be held on Tuesday, October 29 in Bairnsdale, where interested schools, industry and community members can learn more about Broadening Horizons, and how to become involved.
Further information and contact details are available on the Gippsland East LLEN website.
