Employment and Training May2024

Passion combined with education

SEDA College uses sport and real life industry experience to engage students in their learning

SEDA College was established in 2007 to address gaps in traditional education, and in 2017 evolved into an Independent Senior Secondary School and the largest provider of the Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major, with over 800 students across Victoria.

At SEDA, students who share a passion for sports thrive in an applied, hands-on learning environment.

Partnering with Australia’s leading sport, recreation, community, and trade organisations, such as AFL Victoria, Basketball Victoria, Cricket Australia, Melbourne Victory and Melbourne Vixens, students gain real-world industry experiences.

The SEDA model places student interests at the forefront of their senior secondary education, integrating practical connections to industry.

Students at the school can gain a first-hand insight into what it is like to be a part of one of Australia’s leading organisations and sporting clubs. A priority is the development of key personal qualities and transferable skills, aligning with the needs of employers.

Their classrooms, strategically located in community settings, provide a dynamic environment for learning.

SEDA College’s individualised learning transforms students’ lives and provides unique opportunities to develop practical skills for a successful future.

Their distinctive ‘one teacher, one classroom’ model fosters a genuine mentoring approach, enabling teachers to walk alongside and support each

student’s individual journey through their secondary education.

In a typical week, students spend 2.5 days in the classroom, one day delivering sport clinics in the community, and one day gaining industry experience in a structured workplace.

Activities throughout the year, such as presentations on health promotion strategies, coaching sessions with elite partners, and engaging in sports like surfing and skiing, enhance the SEDA College experience.

Career advice is integral to their program, with all students completing their ‘MyPLAN’, a digital professional portfolio linking skills and industry experiences to educational and employment pathways.

Their teachers, supported by the professional pathways team, guide students through this process, ensuring a seamless transition into their desired future.

“Our mission is to ensure that every SEDA College graduate not only possesses a strong understanding of themselves, but also has the capacity to make a positive impact beyond the school gates,” SEDA College VIC principal Heath McMillin said.

“We are committed to providing each student with the best possible education, equipping them for further studies, the workforce and empowering them to contribute meaningfully to their community in the years ahead.”

For further information, visit seda.vic.edu.au

Kickstart your career with SEDA.

SEDA combines learning with hands-on industry experiences for their students.

JOIN OUR TEAM!

PRIMARY CARE CONNECT

PCC offer amazing incentives and perks including:

Attractive remuneration

Salary packaging

Personal use of our gym

Professional development and flexibility

Work/Life balance that actually exists!

Positions Available:

Adminstraination Assistant

Allied Health Trainee

Consumer Care Clinician

Family Safety Contact Worker

Finance Assistance

ICT Support Worker

Our friendly team is here to assist you in navigating through our various opportunities and guiding you towards a fulfilling career path. Feel free to give us a call on 03 5823 3200 and ask to speak with Teagan, Hope or Emily to start an exciting conversation about your future!

Supporting careers for 40 years

This year marks 40 years of business for Goulburn Murray Group

Training trading as The Apprenticeship Factory and Monarch Personnel.

We began in 1984 as a local a not-forprofit, community based organisation supporting people with employment and training opportunities.

This is a significant milestone for an organisation that provides a crucial link between young people wanting to obtain a trade qualification, and employers looking to hire an apprentice or trainee.

The Apprenticeship Factory has a dedicated team of staff who realise the importance of creating opportunities for our young people so that our region can continue to grow.

Over the last 40 years we have supported over 6500 start their careers in a trade and we look forward to working with businesses and young school leavers who are looking to work in the trades sector.

Over the last 40 years we have supported over 6500 start their careers in a trade and we look forward to working with businesses and young school leavers who are looking to work in the trades sector

- The Apprenticeship Factory

We work closely with local businesses and school leavers, supporting them to achieve a successful apprenticeship outcome.

If you are interested in what services The Apprenticeship Factory has to offer, phone 5822 4555 to discuss your business needs.

Natalie Simpson from The Apprenticeship Factory.

Callum Miller is studying Certificate III Carpentry through The Apprenticeship Factory.

CAREER PATHWAYS FOR ANY STAGE IN YOUR LIFE

Goulburn Valley Health is a regional health service and the largest employer in the region.

The health service works with purpose and pride, and is committed to respecting and embracing diversity, inclusion and accessibility for its people and community.

The talented team across GV Health consists of more than 3,000 people from all walks of life, working at five main sites across the Goulburn Valley region.

There are many opportunities for entry level or experienced professionals across a range of disciplines:

•Aged Care

•Allied Health

•Community Programs

•Corporate & Support Services

•Medical

•Mental Health

•Nursing & Midwifery

Dr Kadison Michel thrives as a Critical Care Unit Registrar in the bustling medical hub of GV Health

Dr Michel completed the Doctor of Medicine program at The University of Melbourne and then completed his clinical years at The University of Melbourne Rural Clinical School in Shepparton.

Growing up in Shepparton, Dr Michel said it was important for him to return to the Goulburn Valley and work at GV Health.

A passionate advocate for hands-on critical care, he says GV Health is the ideal environment for

continuous learning and skill development.

“I enjoy the hands-on experience I get at GV Health.

“I have great support from all the departments that I have worked in, and I have received fantastic education and procedural skills throughout the last two years,” he said.

Dr. Michel said he thrives on the dynamic challenges that come with each day, seizing

opportunities for growth and education.

Dr Michel appreciates GV Health’s commitment to professional development, which has allowed him to evolve his skills in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

“If you’re someone that wants to gain independent procedural skills and wants to continuously evolve their skills and gain education, GV Health is the place for you,” he said.

O’Connors offers students a headstart

Growing up in the small town of Edenhope, Georgia

Baxter, a second-year service technician apprentice accepted into the RedStart program, knows the important role that farmers and farm support services play in Australia’s economy.

RedStart is a dedicated program for apprentices and trainees to start a longterm and secure career at O’Connors.

We deliver on-the-job support and mentoring from experienced and qualified supervisors, as well as specialised Case IH training in state-of-the-art workshops and training facilities across the O’Connors Dealership Network.

RedStart apprentices also complete group training at TAFENSW in Wagga Wagga.

The facility has a dedicated Case IH training centre where apprentices are given skills and technical knowledge in a hands-on environment.

“The opportunity to complete training with other RedStart apprentices and getting the opportunity to work on the latest product range from Case IH was a big draw card,” Georgia said.

“We integrate real-world customer servicing and simulated training.

“It gives us the ability to create complex issues as a simulation and solve them in a controlled environment, so when the time comes for real, we are ready for the challenge.”

Wayne Sibrey, head teacher of automotive, is responsible for delivering the program to RedStart apprentices.

“No other training organisation or facility offers this type of dedicated ag mechanical training,” Wayne said.

“We have a partnership with Case IH who supply the latest machinery and components for the program, ensuring our students are given access to the most up-to-date and advanced equipment.”

“The RedStart program application process is easy, and there is a dedicated RedStart co -ordinator who is a great support,” he said.

“We also undertake group training as a year level which is a great networking opportunity. You get to know all the other apprentices and create good professional relationships,” Georgia said.

“Day-to-day I assist senior service technicians in repairing and servicing all types of machinery.

“Learning from the senior technicians is really rewarding, and it’s amazing how much they know and as mentors, they are a great source of information and confidence when working on high-performance machinery.”

For further information, email redstart@jjoconnor.com.au, phone 0448 598 000 or visit www. oconnorscareers.com.au/redstart

Service technician apprentice Georgia Baxter is part of O’Connors’ RedStart program.

Choose RedStart for a long-term career with O’Connors.

Pursue dreams at GOTAFE

The journey to reaching your career goals can be challenging and overwhelming at times, but with GOTAFE by your side, YOU’VE GOT THIS.

GOTAFE provides people with the opportunity to realise their potential and follow their passions.

For Alanna Birch, the support of her trainers combined with GOTAFE’s flexibility has allowed her to pursue her passion of childcare.

Alanna completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) before choosing to enrol in a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50121).

“I am so glad I chose to study with GOTAFE to complete my course, they have been so supportive — even during the tough times,” she said.

“Childcare is a great industry to be part of and there are many job opportunities available.

“I am deeply passionate about working in childcare to assist in making a positive impact on the growth and development of all children.

“It is important to provide children with a sense of security and belonging in a warm, welcoming, encouraging and stimulating environment for the learning

and development to have the best impact on the lives of our future generation.”

Alanna is currently working as a room leader at Small Friends Childcare and Education in Kialla.

GOTAFE delivers early childcare courses across its entire footprint, with Seymour and Wallan campuses featuring stateof-the-art simulation labs that reflect the early childhood care service environment.

Community and family groups make use of the spaces, allowing students to gain real-world experience.

Both the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50121) are available under the Free TAFE scheme.

Whether you are just starting out in your career, aiming for a career change, upskilling or seeking professional growth – YOU’VE GOT THIS!

Applications for semester two are now open.

For more information, or to browse GOTAFE’s course offerings, visit www.gotafe.vic.edu.au

We have helped over 6800 apprentices become qualified and gain a career

Alanna Birch is making her dream of working in childcare come true by studying at GOTAFE.

Goulburn Valley Water is aiming to inspire locals to consider a career in the water industry by offering students an insight into the various engineering roles that are available in the field at this year’s Careers Day Out on May 8 and 9.

GVW’s engineers play an integral role in delivering and maintaining high quality drinking water and wastewater services to the region, along with project development and asset management.

They have a variety of roles in the business — responsible for optimising use of assets, planning and delivering projects to enhance capability and designing infrastructure for sustainable delivery of services into the future.

Among those is Jacinta O’Connor, a project development engineer whose story may inspire the next generation of engineers.

She is a former Shepparton student with a double degree in Civil Engineering and Science who was a leading figure in the development of GVW’s Intelligent Metering Project. She completed an internship in the United Kingdom before eventually being offered a graduate opportunity with GVW through

her university.

“I jumped at the opportunity as I love water and had spent the previous two summers working casually with GVW,” Jacinta said.

“I not only got to learn on the job, but I was supported in obtaining training to get to the role I am in today.”

Jacinta was invited to present at OzWater in Sydney last year (considered Australia’s premier water event), about the lead role she played in the installation of 11,500 digital meters for GVW customers.

At the Careers Day Out students will be able to hear from her, and other engineers, about pursuing a future in the field.

Students considering a career in the water industry are encouraged to come and talk to the engineers at the GVW Careers Day Out stand located at the event about the range of opportunities available.

Jacinta O’Connor jumped at the chance to work at Goulburn Valley Water.

Matilda finds spark in electrical trade

When Matilda Kelly started the school year in 2023, she wasn’t sure what her future career looked like. She knew further study in a school-like setting wasn’t for her, so she turned her mind to a trade pathway.

“I knew I didn’t want to go to university, but I still wanted to look into something that was well paying and would bring me job security,” Matilda said.

With this in mind, Matilda undertook Year 10 work experience last year at two local businesses, Watters and Bonnett’s Electrical.

Fast forward to 2024 and Matilda is now a few months in to a School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SBAT) with Bonnett’s. This program is offered through Head Start to support students to complete an apprenticeship or traineeship alongside their senior secondary education.

“It’s a great opportunity if you’re wanting to take a trade pathway because essentially, you have your first year under your belt once you complete school,” Matilda said.

Currently the Year 11 student attends her apprenticeship one day a week and already has received some great hands-on learning opportunities and experience. Matilda encouraged anyone looking into a trade to reach out to the GSSC Careers Team to discuss their options.

“I didn’t even know what an SBAT was until I reached out to the careers team for some advice. They supported me with this pathway and all of the coordination,” Matilda said.

“I think the other thing you can’t underestimate is work experience – it can really help you make your decision if you’re unsure because sometimes you don’t really know until you give it a go.”

Book HERE

Greater opportunities at GSSC

At GSSC, there have never been more opportunities for our young people. Through up to 60 core and elective subject offerings from Year 9, our students have endless career pathways to explore in both VCE and Applied Learning.

With qualified Careers Practitioners located in each of our neighbourhoods, our students have access to support year-round, which includes mentoring around job ready skills, links to industry, business and tertiary institutions and a unique program partnering with families and students through one-on-one course counselling.

Find out for yourself the opportunities that await at Greater Shepparton Secondary College by attending one of our 2025 enrolment tours.

• Year 6 students and their families are invited to join us for a talk and tour of GSSC on Tuesday, 7 May. Tours will be hosted by our student leaders from 5.30pm with an information session taking place from 6.00pm.

Families can also come and see for themselves, the wonderful teaching and learning that takes place at GSSC by booking a tour on one of the following dates:

• Monday 6 May and Thursday 9 May from 9.30am to 10.15am

• Tuesday 7 May and Wednesday 8 May from 2.15pm to 3.00pm.

Decade of dedication

Catherine Argaet has been a friendly and familiar face within the Goulburn Valley Health team for 10 years.

A dedicated registered nurse, Catherine has devoted the past decade to providing compassionate care and service to patients in the Goulburn Valley.

“I love my job as a registered nurse,” Catherine said.

“I am a local, and I find benefits in supporting local community members throughout my role.”

Starting as a graduate nurse at GV Health 10 years ago, Catherine has now advanced into a more senior role.

“I graduated from La Trobe University in Shepparton and chose to do my graduate year at GV Health,” she said.

“I worked everywhere.

“I did a nine-month placement in the medical ward and then worked in the surgical ward and now have now progressed into the roles I am in today.”

GV Health interim talent acquisition manager Maddi Baker emphasised GV Health’s commitment to supporting staff with professional growth, career

advancement and educational opportunities.

“Our health service offers a diverse range of positions available, from entrylevel to advanced practice positions,” Maddi said.

With the hospital’s support, Catherine has now transitioned into the role of after-hours hospital supervisor and nursing resource officer.

“I love both roles, and they are different but go hand-in-hand,” Catherine said.

“During hospital hours and after hours, I help with the patient flow of the ward, and then in my role as the resource officer, I assist with staffing the wards.”

Having started both roles 12 months ago, Catherine said she had loved every minute.

“It was a significant change from what I was doing previously,” she said.

“I was an associate nurse unit manager on the surgical ward and was looking for a change, and the after-hours staff members put my name forward, and the rest is history.”

Catherine credits the lifelong friendships and memories she has made as the reason she has stayed at GV Health for the past decade.

WATER ENGINEERS. FRESH IDEAS

An engineering or technical career at Goulburn Valley Water opens up a world of opportunity that offers diverse work options in an industry that delivers critical services for our customers and communities.

Find new and imaginative ways to build infrastructure Have a meaningful impact on local communities and future generations Contribute to liveability, urban resilience and climate adaptation Tackle complex and emerging problems Feed your curiosity and passion for learning

“Everyone at GV Health is so friendly; no matter what area you are in, you feel supported by each staff member you work with,” Catherine said.

There’s endless opportunities in the water industry - get ready to dive in and see where it takes you! Find out more about careers at GVW and current opportunities.

Careers in water

GV Health registered nurse Catherine Argaet has transitioned to more senior roles at the hospital.

Connecting with community

The game has changed and now more than ever before, current and future VCE graduates are in the position to seriously consider the question; “what do I want from my career – and my employer?”

As a community health organisation, Primary Care Connect envisions a community where everyone is connected, supported and empowered to lead safe, healthy and happy lives.

And that starts with our diverse team of over 120 staff dedicated to our community’s health and wellbeing.

“The health, wellbeing and growth of our staff is of paramount importance to us,” PCC people and quality executive manager Andrea Caia said.

“Over the past couple of years we have dedicated a number of projects to staff health and wellbeing; enhancing our community garden space for staff use, encouraging our team to use our in-house gym free of charge, providing free fruits for the entire team and introducing a holistic health and wellbeing app, (Sonder) for all staff and their families to access for free, on top of the Employee Assistance Program that is also available.

“We understand in the current job market and with skills shortages being felt across the community health sector; that to attract the best people, we need to provide the best possible workplace that focuses holistically on our staff including health, wellbeing, flexibility, an attractive salary, professional development and career progression.”

“PCC embodies a commitment to everyone within our community, providing employees the chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives every single day.

“At the heart of this commitment lies a team of dedicated professionals, each playing a vital role in shaping the social and health outcomes of individuals and communities alike.

“I go home every day feeling rewarded, like I’ve really contributed to making our community a better place, and I do not see clients,” PCC media and communications coordinator Shara Scott said.

“Even in a business support role, I feel good about my contribution and the role I play.

“I really encourage students to consider a career with PCC whether it’s in a client facing role, or in a business support role such as finance, IT, or administration where you are

so needed, so valued, and where you make a real difference.

“We are committed to investing in people, and to see them grow within our organisation.

“Our trainees often start with us in an administrative capacity, and then find their niche whether it be as an AOD or family violence support worker, gambler’s help, health

promotion, or further study to join our nursing and allied teams,” chief executive officer Trish Quibell said. Embarking on a career path with PCC is more than a ‘job’ — it’s about embracing the opportunity to genuinely transform lives, while checking all the boxes for what you may want and need from your next employer.

To seize the opportunity to be part of something greater, and to find out more information about the wide range of careers available at PCC, don’t hesitate to contact Teagan, Emily or Hope from our people and resilience team on (03) 5823 3200.

To see our current vacancies head to: Current vacancies at primarycareconnect.com.au

Primary Care Connect trainee Alchol Padual is employed in the consumer care

Building partnerships and futures

The saying goes at Greater Shepparton Secondary College that we are GREATER together and that certainly rings true when thinking about careers and pathways.

At GSSC, there have never been more opportunities for our young people.

Through up to 60 core and elective subject offerings from Year 9, our students have endless career pathways to explore in both VCE and Applied Learning.

With qualified careers practitioners located in each of our neighbourhoods, our students have access to support year-round, which includes mentoring around job ready skills, links to industry, business and tertiary institutions and a unique program partnering with families and students through one-onone course counselling.

But beyond the classroom, our students are benefiting from a range of community programs and initiatives.

These partnerships help set our students up for success and ensure our young people are better prepared for further study, or the workforce, when they finish secondary school.

What’s on offer?

Careers Club (hosted weekly):

The Careers Club provides assistance preparing resumes, support with job applications, cover letters and Tax File Numbers.

Students can also meet and speak with employers, industry groups and tertiary providers, including GOTAFE and La Trobe University.

Geared 4 Careers: Geared4Careers are based in the college full-time and compliment the careers team by offering an allocated group of students’ practical assistance to become job-ready or to transition to further vocational or tertiary education.

The initiative is thanks to ongoing funding provided by Worktrainers and is the only program of its type in Shepparton.

Ganbina: Ganbina staff are located in the college full-time and provide culturally-specific support, engagement programs and mentoring to ensure the best outcomes for First Nations students.

School Based Traineeships & Apprenticeships: SBATs are available to our students through Headstart and are established through the connections with industry and business.

Pictured is Year 10 student Vera Asante who attended the inaugural ‘Women in Trades’ event last year. The two-day event was for female and non-binary Year 9 students and organised by GMLLEN.

My

vision

for our

region is building a state-of-the-art Goulburn Valley Clinical Health School.

Located in Shepparton, the training centre would complement existing local education providers and allow more people to study nursing and a diverse range of allied health courses. The hub would train individuals closer to home, ll vital gaps in our healthcare system, and have locals working in the community they love.

I’m continuing to advocate for this project and help build the future health in Nicholls.