About the Work Inspirations Program
Work Inspirations is a structured, hands-on program where Year 10 students spend a week working with local employers to learn practical skills, understand workplace expectations, and explore real industry pathways.
The program offers an alternative model of work experience that helps students build confidence, deepen career awareness, and understand how their own interests and skills can connect to future opportunities.
Insight into local and emerging industries
Building work-ready skills, such as communication, problem solving & teamwork
Career Immersion through hands-on experiences
About The Program
In 2025, BNLLEN delivered its first Work Inspirations pilot in partnership with Kebet Packaging and The Cardboard Mill. Both are Heidelberg West businesses specialising in sustainable manufacturing and creative design.
After initial promotion across 19 schools in the Banyule and Nillumbik region, 25 year 10 students participated in the program. They learned digital modelling, hands-on construction, workplace safety and sustainability practices.
The pilot program provided an industry taster experience for students with the following interests:
- Design and creative industries
- Manufacturing and trades
- Sustainability and clean energy
The students designed and built products including furniture, masks, hats, helmets, and props to explore cardboard’s recyclability, eco-friendly adhesives, and carbon-neutral operations.
Students learned 3D modelling and digital design and an introduction to laser cutting, analogue cutting, and print technologies.
Future Programs
The 2025 Work Inspirations pilot demonstrated the value of giving students structured, hands-on experience with local industry. The partnership model provided an alternative to traditional work experience and helped students understand emerging career pathways in sustainable design, manufacturing and the circular economy.
Building on this success, BNLLEN will refine and expand the program in 2026. Future delivery will include clearer links to school curriculum, pre-program guidance for teachers, and more opportunities for students to engage with employers before and during the program. Selecting students with a genuine interest in relevant pathways and extending hands-on activity time will further strengthen learning outcomes.
BNLLEN aims to broaden Work Inspirations across additional industries and school communities, ensuring more young people can access meaningful workplace learning that supports confident, informed career decision-making.
If your school or organisation would like to participate in Work Inspirations, get in touch with us at bnllen@bnllen.org.au.