Many students learn better by doing. Partnering with schools is a fun way that students and business can work and learn together. It could be fixing a car or researching a business challenge....

Through the Partnership Broker Program businesses are encouraged to give young people hands-on learning experiences in specific industry sectors.

The Schools Industry Partnership based at Penrith links businesses, students and the broader community through activities that ultimately benefit all those involved, in the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury and Penrith regions.

Students are given the opportunity to gain real experience, learn about career opportunities open to them and find out about the kinds of skills employers are looking for. On the other hand, local businesses gain experience in working with today’s young people and have a hand in shaping their future workforce.

The programme also focuses on meeting future skills needs by encouraging young people to learn in new and emerging industry sectors and those that have current or predicted skills shortages. It also helps to develop positive attitudes about local businesses and aims to dispel negative and outdated perceptions.

A typical project is set with a particular industry sector and runs to a project plan. It gives participating students hands-on learning under the guidance of an industry mentor and produces a defined finished product. When the project is completed, an awards evening or community-based event is often held to celebrate the project and the cooperation of all involved.

Local businesses can assist with the provision of materials, mentors and promotion of the project. Teachers and parents are also encouraged to be closely involved in the project so that all stakeholders benefit from an increased understanding of the career opportunities open to young people within these industry sectors.

Projects can be based in business or industry, in the community or in schools. They include activities such as:

• building a product
• planning an event
• tours, site visits and excursions
• speakers and demonstrations
• student research and enterprise projects
• mentoring by industry specialists and local businesses
• projects with industry specific hands-on learning
• competitions and games.

If you would like to have a chat about the potential benefits of your business becoming involved in Partnering with schools please contact :

Caroline Wilson   0405 584 220   caroline@schoolsindustry.com.au or

Cheryl Kitto    0448 852 769      cheryl@schoolsindustry.com.au      or

click on the Contact Us link on the left of the screen.