Careers' forum shows the way

More than 40 per cent of apprentices and trainees drop out of their chosen training before completion but a group of South West training and education organisations are aiming to change that statistic.

Business, education and training organisations from across the region have joined forces to host an information forum on everything young people need to know before committing to an apprenticeship or traineeship.

One of the forum’s organisers, Jan Pedersen, said the group hoped to provide clear and concise information to Upper School students and their parents to help in making career choices.

‘‘In one location they can find out everything about how apprentice and trainee systems work,’’ she said.

‘‘They can hear from people who are already working as apprentices and employees.’’

She said it was important for students to think about career choices from Year 10 onwards to ensure they picked the right Upper School subjects.

However, she said it was also important to know where those choices would place them at the end of high school.

Last year’s Master Builder’s Association apprentice of the year, Sam Long, and 2011 resource industry trainee of the year Rachael Fry will be on hand to provide a young person’s view on vocational training.

A business trainee at Worsley Alumina, Ms Fry said her training was helping to open doors in the resources industry.

‘‘My advice to young people looking to get into the resources industry is to give it a go,’’ she said.

Presentations from training providers and business leaders will also explain what kind of opportunities are available in the region and what is expected of apprentices and trainees.

The forum will be held this Thursday, May 17 at ECU Bunbury from 5pm.

For more information, contact Ms Pedersen on 0428 910 427.