CatholicCare is working with the team at WEA Hunter to provide a five week education program to young people who are part of CatholicCare’s Supported Independent Living program (SIL).
The education program will provide young people aged between 16 to 18 years with a range of skills that enable them to gain employment and move toward independent living. Students enrolled in the course complete three modules aimed at enhancing their reading, writing and oral communication skills in preparation to enter the workforce. The course covers simple strategies for work-related learning, including planning for future courses, resume and cover letter writing and workplace communication skills such as job interviews, dealing with customers, and answering the phone.
CatholicCare’s Young Adult Services Manager, Mr Ian Eggins, said the course assisted young people more suited to alternative tuition styles.
“The course supports students who are really keen to learn but find the structure and demands of regular schooling overwhelming. We chose WEA Hunter because of its track record in providing education through its highly successful Alesco Senior Colleges where tailored tuition and support assists students to reach their potential,” Ian said.
Student, Mr Blade Penman, said that learning interview strategies would help bring him closer to achieving his career goal.
“I can see that aspects of this course will help me in my future career. I want to be an Infantry Officer in the Australian Army so learning about resumes and interviews will help me give a good first impression,” Blade said.
WEA Hunter CEO, Ms Rowan Cox, said that WEA Hunter was pleased to join forces with CatholicCare to provide education and support for young people contemplating their future.
“The program is designed to provide simple strategies for work-related learning. Our experienced trainers have developed a learning focus on career planning by helping students identify their current strengths and skills and then matching these with potential job and career and education pathways,” Rowan said.
SIL assists young people, under the parental responsibility of the Minister to transition from Out of Home Care to independent living. Support includes helping young people to find suitable accommodation, manage a budget, learn cooking, cleaning and general house maintenance skills and supports their education and employment.
WEA Hunter (Workers Educational Association Hunter) is the fifth largest provider of community based adult learning in NSW. It is also one of the sector's most diverse education providers offering government contract training, vocational education training and youth education. Best known for its lifestyle programs, WEA Hunter is also a registered RTO delivering specialist skills and VET courses as well as the Alesco education model for young people aspiring to complete high school studies.
