Media Releases

Data released yesterday by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) revealed the overall apprentice and trainee commencements were down by 3.7 per cent compared to the same period last year. The overall decrease can be attributed to a decline in the number of commencements in trade occupations, down 10.8% to 27 900 for the March 2016 quarter when compared with the March 2015 quarter.

Jeremy Sinn is an enthusiastic and dedicated young man who has recently landed a full time job as a car detailer with Kingaroy based company, Bill Hull Car Centre. A former Maryborough State High School student, Jeremy was always keen to move into the workforce but wasn’t sure of what pathway to take to help him achieve his goal.

Getting your first job can do a lot for your confidence as 18 year Ethal Dodd knows. After leaving school two years ago the former Bundamba High School student spent hundreds of hours searching for a job without luck.

Employed by OSMAC Group Training, the fourth year apprentice has been recently selected to represent Queensland at the 2016 WorldSkills Australia National Competition in Melbourne from 6 – 8 October. WorldSkills is the largest trades and skills showcase in the country and this year nearly 500 young apprentices, trainees and students from all corners of Australia will compete in 50 categories for the coveted title of “National Champion”.

Twenty year old Jacob Llewellyn knows what it’s like to be out of job and what it can do for your self confidence. The former Lowood State High School student had been unemployed for two years before he had the opportunity to take part in an exciting new program BUSY At Work is delivering with Careers Australia.

It’s hard to imagine many 19 year olds being able to fit in seamlessly into a challenging new customer service role and always do it with a smile on their face. For former Noosa District State High School student, Caralee Foxwell that challenge comes easily. The enthusiastic and cheerful teenager is now three months into her Certificate III in Financial Services and very much enjoying her role as a full time Junior Customer Service Officer with the Noosaville branch of the Bank of Queensland (BOQ).

Labour force figures released yesterday show unemployment is down citing continued growth in part-time employment. Over the past six months there has been an increase of 82,600 people working part-time, compared with a 21,600 decrease in those working full-time.

St Columban’s College Caboolture Year 11 student Kallen Donovan won’t have to look too far if he needs assistance taking on his apprenticeship.