Yet another route for students

ALKIRA Secondary College students are being provided with extra learning opportunities, thanks to an alternate system of learning at the school.
This year has seen the beginning of what’s proving to be a popular program; preCAL – which gives pupils the chance at an alternative education through a Vocational Education Training (VET) course.
The program is made possible due to a partnership between the school and the Narre Community Learning Centre.
The VET course helps students gain access to a different route to education.
The preCAL program allows students to complete their certificate two in business management which opens extra avenues for them later down the track.
The 35-week course is currently being completed by 14 Year 10 students and one Year 11 student.
Various benefits and opportunities emerge from the course, such as industry and TAFE tours, talks from guest speakers and the chance for students to get both their ‘Safe at Work’ and ‘OH&S’ certificates.
Tyson Ofield from Year 10 said the course would help him in his future endeavours.
“It has provided me with a career path and future skills needed for construction,” the student said.
Shanice Williams said the different type of education had helped her to stay focused, and introduced her to areas of work she was previously not familiar with.
“It has given me motivation, confidence and introduced me to different work areas; including OH&S,” she said.
Shanice also commented on the doors it will open for her in the future.
“It will help me achieve my goals of becoming a hairdresser and owning a business,” she said.