Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE

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TEC student success

A Shepparton Technical Education Centre (TEC) student, Scott Gleeson from Numurkah, is the first TEC student to obtain an apprenticeship as a result of his involvement in the new GOTAFE program.

Scott, from Numurkah, was offered an automotive apprenticehsip with Cobram Motorcylces and Mowers.

Along with 76 other Secondary School students from across the Goulburn Valley, Scott is in the first intake of students in the Shepparton TEC studying trade qualifications at a Certificate II level, while still attending their home base secondary school.

Scott says he heard about the Shepparton TEC through a grandparent and liked the idea of hands-on training. "Being interested in Motor Cross I've always mucked around with motor bikes. Going to the TEC I learnt how engines work, how they are designed, put together and how they can be fixed and improved. So rather than just mucking around I have gained skills in engine repairs that will help me in getting a job in the auto industry," says Scott.

"If it wasn't for the TEC I would never have gained the knowledge and experience that has prepared me to take on an apprenticeship."

As part of studying with the TEC, students are required to undertake work placements so they have the opportunity to apply their learning in a real work context.

With assistance from Shepparton TEC Employment Pathways Officer, Narelle Lowe, Scott undertook work placement during his school holidays which resulted in gaining an apprenticeship with the host employer, Cobram Motorcycles and Mowers.

Ron Wilson, proprietor of Cobram Motorcycles and Mowers says "Scott was a great match for the business. He is actively involved in Motor Cross and his study and career aspirations were all clearly aligned. Scott was motivated to do work placement during his school holidays which proved to me he was serious about working in the industry."

Scott found Ron to be very supportive in taking on a TEC work placement student. "It was great to work for an employer who has a commitment to supporting young people who show interest in the industry."

Ron said "At the time I had no idea there could be an offer of an apprenticeship for Scott but I guess that's the beauty of work placement, it can create opportunities by allowing students to demonstrate both their attitude and their skills. I took Scott on because someone left the business, and he was able to demonstrate his maturity and it gave me a taste of his skills and abilities. That wouldn't have happened without the work placement. It's been a good outcome for us all."

Currently there are other students who are being considered for apprenticeships as a result of studying with the TEC. For more information visit www.tec.edu.au or call 1300 GOTAFE (468 233).