The Tasmanian Government is delivering more vocational learning opportunities to Year 9 and 10 students, with the Youth Career Facilitator program expanding to the south as part of the Youth Jobs Strategy.
Following a competitive tender process, Hobart based not for profit, Home Base (formerly known as Colony 47), has been selected to work with Southern schools, students and employers to build career pathways in high demand industries.
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said the Youth Career Facilitator program is delivering on the Government's commitment to strengthen industry connections for students, giving them practical and on-the-job experience.
"By strengthening partnerships between schools, industry and community organisations, we're building a skills pipeline that supports young people today while meeting Tasmania's workforce needs into the future," Minister Palmer said.
"The Youth Career Facilitator program has delivered strong results in the North, and we're proud to see it now reach every corner of the state. Southern Tasmania will have the opportunity to build real connections with local industries through this partnership with Home Base.
"Our Government is delivering the opportunities young Tasmanians need to thrive, helping them gain the skills, confidence and connections to succeed beyond school."
The Youth Career Facilitator South is a key action under the Government's Youth Jobs Strategy, which sets out a plan to connect young people with employment, training and career pathways across the State.
It will target a 50 per cent increase of senior secondary students undertaking VET programs by 2030.
Currently 20 per cent of senior secondary students study VET at Tasmanian Government schools.
Home Base CEO, Dianne Underwood, said the program will ensure young people have a connected and coordinated pathway from school through to employment.
"We want every young Tasmanian to have genuine options when it comes to their future," Ms Underwood said.
"By connecting them with real employment pathways, we're helping them build confidence, contribute to their communities, and create a strong foundation for life.
"Supporting young people in this way is an investment in Tasmania's future."
Schools and employers in southern Tasmania interested in getting involved can visit www.decyp.tas.gov.au/learning/vocational-learning/youth-career-facilitator or contact Home Base directly.
