Passport 2 Employment program launches in Geraldton

Published on Monday, 19 August 2019 at 5:07:26 PM

Select Year 10, 11 and 12 students from local schools will see their career prospects soar as they participate in the Passport 2 Employment program.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn was thrilled to see the new program take off.

“Finding a job can be a daunting experience for anyone, especially if you’re a school leaver entering the work force for the first time,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to see organisations come together to help equip these kids with the tools they need to land their dream job.”

The Passport 2 Employment program involves students from Holland Street School, Nagle Catholic College, Geraldton Senior High School and Geraldton Grammar School who have been identified as benefitting from extra education and support as they prepare to graduate from high school.

The seven week program - which is already underway - involves campus tours and workplace visits, as well as sessions on resume writing and job applications, interview preparation, presentation skills and health and fitness.

National Disability Coordination Officer Telka Elliott praised Geraldton for embracing the concept with open arms and bringing the program to life.

“The Passport 2 Employment program is a perfect example of how collaborative work within a region can improve young people’s lives,” she said.

“It is fantastic to see education, industry and community providers working together to increase opportunities for Geraldton young people.”

The Geraldton Pathways to Employment committee consists of representatives from the National Disability Coordination Officer (NDCO) Program, Central Regional TAFE, City of Greater Geraldton, Midwest Regional Education Office, APM, Forrest Personnel and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

The program was originally founded in 2013 when the Glenelg and Southern Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network brought together key stakeholders with the objective of improving pathways for young people with supported needs.

Passport 2 Employment is a pilot program that will conclude in September with the view of making it an annual occurrence.

Mayor Shane Van Styn with P2E Participant James Cassin
Photo caption: Mayor Shane Van Styn with Passport 2 Employment participant James Cassin

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