The role of Banyule Nillumbik Workplace Learning is to increase workplace learning opportunities for local students, including School Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships (SBATs), Structured Workplace Learning and Work Experience. The Workplace Learning Team is often asked ‘What are the advantages of undertaking a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship’? Perhaps this is best illustrated through one of the many success stories.
Jedda Charles—School Based Traineeship Children’s Services 2006
Since completing Senior VCAL and a Children’s Services SBAT in 2006, Jedda Charles has continued to experience success in the Industry. As a School Based Trainee, Jedda worked one day per week at Eltham Early Learning Centre, gaining on the job experience in a range of childcare environments including baby and kinder rooms. Off the job training was undertaken at Kangan Institute during term breaks. Based on her SBAT and VCAL performance, Jedda was awarded the Montmorency Secondary College VCAL/VET Student of the Year in 2006.
After leaving school, Jedda successfully applied for a position with the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA). Her role at VACCA involved running supported playgroups for local Aboriginal families. During this time, Jedda also began a Diploma in Children’s Services.
In 2009 Jedda joined Bubup Wilam Early Learning as an Early Years Educator. Jedda is proud of the centre’s vision to provide a thriving Aboriginal, family-based early childhood centre that creates strong foundations of life-long learning, health and well-being. As an Early Years Educator and Koori Mentor Jedda develops activities and programs for children that focus on connections with their Aboriginal identity and culture. Jedda continues to model life-long learning and, having successfully applied for a scholarship, is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at the Institute of Koori Education Deakin University. Most recently Jedda has been nominated for the Ricky Marks Award 2012 which acknowledges outstanding achievements of Victorian Indigenous Young People who have demonstrated leadership and initiative.
Jedda always knew she wanted to work with children and undertaking a SBAT allowed her to confirm this was the right career for her. She believes her Year 12 program enabled her to experience success as it suited her learning style and, as an independent student, being paid for her SBAT work was a bonus. Jedda says she is “proof that undertaking a SBAT and making the most of it, provides lots of opportunities”.
For more information contact:
Nancye Harrison, BNWL Program Manager
nancye@bnllen.org.au or (03) 9431 8000