Around 2,500 Australian students are set to benefit from the federal government’s new National Career Development Strategy: Making Career Connections initiative.
This strategy was launched by minister for school education and youth Peter Garrett in May, with more than $6.1 million allocated to help students find a career through supported pathways.
Almost $1 million will be used to expand the Beacon Foundation’s Real Futures Generation program. This is centred on young people who want to begin their career with a traineeship, apprenticeship or entry level job, but struggle with the transition from school to work.
This program will provide supported pathways for up to 200 jobs, extending learning beyond the classroom, and giving some much-needed apprentice support for students interested in the relevant trades.
Energy Skills Queensland reports that there was also a $5.2 million funding injection for the Australian Maths and Science Partnership Program (AMSPP), designed for students pursuing a career in engineering, science, technology and maths.
Minister for higher education and skills Sharon Bird opened the second round of the AMSPP in May, making more than $16 million available for competitive grants.
“These grants will help develop new and innovative ways of teaching and learning maths and science,” Ms Bird said.
“By improving students’ experience in the classroom we also improve their career opportunities in the future. The benefits of these programs will reach students across Australia.”
