Schools
RIJI provides participating schools in the Banyule and Nillumbik regions with a curriculum-based schedule that can be delivered in class over eight weeks to support students to prepare for the practise interview day and help them with career development skills along the way.
Volunteers
Local industry and community volunteers provide their time as interviewers for the program. Most of the Volunteers commit a full day of support to the students in a practise interview scenario including verbal and written feedback. Students receive this feedback to reflect and learn from their interview experience.
Students
Students gain firsthand experience in the process of applying for jobs. Prior to the interviews, students undergo comprehensive preparation involving job searching, crafting resumes/cover letters, and developing interview skills through class-based activities. This culminates in a practice interview with a local volunteer.
Program Success
In 2023, a total of 7 schools participated: Montmorency SC, Charles La Trobe SC and Concord School, Bundoora SC, Our Lady of Mercy College, Greensborough College and Plenty River College
Total number of volunteers who participated in 2023 - 73.
Total Number of Students who Participated – 348.
2024 RIJI Program
This year, BNLLEN will be hosting RIJI in partnership with Banyule City Council and Nillumbik Shire Council. 11 schools and approximately 1200 students will be pariticpating in the program.
Get Involved
Seeking Industry and Community Volunteers
We are seeking volunteers to offer their time (either a full/half day at one or both events) and to interview students in a practise interview. Volunteers will be provided with the resume and job description for each student as well as some questions to help navigate the interview.
Case Study
Case Study: Preparing Students for the Future - Jane's Experience with RIJI at Greensborough College
The Real Industry Job Interviews (RIJI) program has made a significant impact on schools by providing students with crucial job readiness skills. Jane, a dedicated careers teacher at Greensborough College, strongly endorsed the program for its practical benefits.
"The real industry job interviews really prepare young people for going to work," Jane said. "Being able to do the resume and cover letter and apply for a job that is relevant to them and go for the interview and getting some feedback is really valuable for their lifelong learning."
At Greensborough College, RIJI preparation was integrated into the Year 9 Connect program, held weekly. Jane and her team strategically planned the curriculum. "In Term Two, we focused on resumes and cover letters, and in Term Three, we prepared for the job interviews," Jane explained. "Spacing it out like that was really good for our students as well."
On interview day, students faced a mix of nerves and excitement. Jane observed, "You really don't get an opportunity for students or for young people to go for an interview and get the feedback that they will get from today. They'll be able to take that for the future, even if they do have a part-time job. It will give them other good tips for the future."
The feedback from interviewers provided invaluable insights, boosting students' confidence and readiness for future job opportunities. Jane highly recommended the RIJI program to other schools, noting its positive impact on her students' career preparedness. "I definitely recommend the real industry job interviews to other schools because you really don't get an opportunity like this," she said. "I highly recommend it."
Jane - Careers Teacher
In 2023, the Banyule Nillumbik Local Learning and Employment Network (BNLLEN) once again brought the Real Industry Job Interviews (RIJI) program to life, aiming to equip Year 9 students with essential job readiness skills. This year’s program, marked by enthusiastic participation and invaluable experiences, solidified RIJI's reputation as a transformative educational initiative.
Setting the Stage
The RIJI program kicked off with a burst of activity as schools across the Banyule and Nillumbik regions signed up their students. Ten schools initially enrolled, but due to various challenges, seven schools eventually participated. Despite these setbacks, the program maintained its momentum, engaging 348 students who eagerly stepped out of their comfort zones to face real-life job interviews.
The First Event: Nillumbik Schools
The first RIJI event took place on October 12th at the Eltham Reception and Community Centre. The venue buzzed with the nervous excitement of students from Charles La Trobe College, Montmorency Secondary College, and Concord School. Originally, 122 students had expressed interest, and although 109 registered, 85 made it to the interviews. Here, they faced 24 volunteer interviewers, each bringing a wealth of professional experience to the table.
For many students, this was their first encounter with a formal interview setting. The challenge was daunting, but the experience proved invaluable. As one student put it, “Participating in the RIJI program gave me an insight into what applying to a real job would be like. I was able to experience applying for a job myself, which helped me build my confidence to apply for a real job.”
The Second Event: Banyule Schools
On October 19th, the Bellfield Community Hub welcomed students from Greensborough College, Bundoora Secondary College, Our Lady of Mercy College, and Plenty Valley River College. Despite an expected turnout of 398, 325 students registered, and 263 attended. These students were greeted by 49 volunteer interviewers, ready to provide a realistic and supportive interview experience.
The jobs students applied for ranged from Apprentice Hairdresser to Childcare Assistant, each position selected to match their age and experience. The preparation and mock interviews were not just practice but a profound learning journey. “I think that the interview itself was the most useful part,” a student shared, “although it wouldn't have been possible without the in-class work. Nothing could compare to the face-to-face experience.”
Volunteer Involvement and Insights
Volunteers play a crucial role in the RIJI program, and 2023 saw the return of many from previous years, alongside new participants. A total of 73 volunteers, including local business representatives and community members, dedicated their time to mentoring the students. Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive. “Seeing the students come out of their shells and settle into their interviews to showcase their strengths and talents was absolutely the highlight!” one volunteer enthused.
Overcoming Challenges
The journey was not without its challenges. Schools withdrew at the last minute due to scheduling conflicts, leaving gaps that needed swift resolution. Transport logistics also posed significant hurdles, with some schools struggling to book buses on time. BNLLEN staff worked tirelessly to adjust schedules, reschedule interviews, and ensure the events proceeded smoothly.
Reflecting on Success
Despite the obstacles, the RIJI program in 2023 was a resounding success. Feedback from students highlighted increased confidence and a better understanding of the job application process. According to surveys, 91% of students found the program valuable, and 94% reported a boost in their confidence to seek employment. Volunteers also expressed high levels of satisfaction, with 100% willing to participate again.
The RIJI program continues to be a vital bridge between education and employment for young people in the Banyule and Nillumbik regions. Through hands-on experiences and constructive feedback, students gain the confidence and skills needed to navigate the job market successfully. The 2023 program underscored the importance of practical learning and community support in shaping the future workforce.
Sponsors
Sponsors
BNLLEN acknowledges and thanks the Banyule City Council and Nillumbik Shire Council for their continued support of RIJI, particularly supporting their staff to participate as volunteer interviewers.
