Building futures: ‘Project Ready’ equips students for success

By Kady Hadjab

Mar 18, 2024

Volunteering in action: Year 10 students Caleb Avard-Tozer, Zachary Birang, Katelyn Lynd, Matthew Donoghue, Oakley Pendlebury, Gemma Wall, Angel Argaet and William Charlton. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Project Ready, developed by the Central Ranges Local Learning and Employment Network, is designed to prepare students in Years 10 to 12 for future employment or further education. This program integrates the VET Certificate II in Active Volunteering.

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Students engage in diverse activities such as career planning, industry engagement, communication skills training and workplace safety education. Additionally, Project Ready emphasises community involvement and volunteering opportunities.

Delivered by qualified trainers and teachers, the program aligns with specific units of competency and leads to certification through Access Skills Training. Since its inception in 2017, Project Ready has aimed to re-engage students in their education while equipping them for the changing demands of the workforce.

Led by a facilitator, this initiative is a partnership between schools and Victoria’s Local Learning and Employment Networks, ensuring a tailored and impactful educational journey for students.

Hands-on approach: Gemma Wall joins fellow VET students in the Clean Up Australia Day initiative at Shepparton Lake. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Project Ready stands out from other programs by addressing the needs of students who may be disengaged or on the edge of disengagement. It does this through a unique, hands-on approach that not only equips students with practical skills but also fosters personal development, self-awareness and career readiness. The program’s holistic nature is further enhanced by community projects, which instil a sense of responsibility and connection to the world beyond the classroom.

Central to the success of Project Ready is its comprehensive curriculum. The program consists of a full day of activities once a week during school terms. Balancing theoretical learning with practical application, students not only participate in planned activities but also complete homework assignments to deepen their understanding. Over the course of 12 months, students are exposed to a diverse range of volunteering opportunities, spanning age care, youth services, environmental initiatives and disability support.

One of the standout features of Project Ready is its emphasis on volunteerism. Every Wednesday, students from participating schools, such as Greater Shepparton Secondary College, actively engage in various volunteering activities. From cleaning up local environments to assisting in aged care facilities, these experiences not only benefit the community but also give a sense of purpose and duty to the students.

Project Ready provides students with industry connections and practical experiences, opening doors to future employment opportunities. This unique aspect of the program empowers students to make informed decisions about their career paths, equipping them with the tools and the necessary confidence to explore diverse options.

Lending a hand: GSSC student Angel Argaet cleaning up at Victoria Park Lake in Shepparton. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

GSSC has been involved with the project for the past four years. With a facilitator and three to four teachers involved yearly, students have been thriving in this nurturing environment.

“This initiative really helps the kids develop skills that will serve them well in the future,” teacher Sara Cartwright-Alberese said.

On March 6, 14 GSSC students embarked on a mission to clean Shepparton’s lake. Supported by GSSC community engagement officer Kayla Doncon and teachers Pauline Wilkinson and Sara Cartwright-Alberse, students contributed to the improvement of their community while working as a team, showcasing the real-world impact of the program.

Project Ready is not just a VET program; it’s a learning journey that empowers students to chart their own paths to success. By nurturing skills, fostering community engagement and providing invaluable experiences, Project Ready equips students with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.