By BRIDGET COOK
STUDENTS at Lyndhurst Secondary College polished up on their skills recently to help them enter the workforce.
About 20 year nine students took part in Beacon Foundation’s Polish program on Friday 29 November which aims to improve their practical skills and knowledge for employment including communication, networking, personal presentation, etiquette and teamwork.
Teacher Frances Fenech said a key component of the program was providing students with the opportunity to network with members of the local business community, past students and staff members over a networking lunch.
“The network lunch was designed to provide students with an opportunity to draw on the skills they have learnt throughout the day and actually put them into practice,” she said.
“Guests were seated with a small group of students who hosted them as their special guest.
“The students greeted their guests with a handshake, confident body language and dining etiquette.
“The lunch was an opportunity for the guests to learn about the students – their plans and aspirations, interests and passions and for the students to learn a little about their guests, own career experiences and any insights or advice that could be offered.”
Following lunch there was a goal setting session where students and guests were asked to write down up to three personal goals they will achieve in the next three months.
“The Beacon Foundation’s Polish program provides a valuable opportunity for students to develop connections with key members of the local community and hone their skills in a real world setting,” Ms Fenech said.
“Lyndhurst look forward to working more closely with business and community members to ensure that each and every one of our students leave the school gates to a positive pathway in further education, employment or training in years to come.
“It is only when whole communities work together that we can ensure the future is bright for our young people.”
