An initiative between the McGowan Government and the Western Australian resources sector will enable Karratha students to complete a pre-apprenticeship course from 2020, with the opportunity for future employment in the mining sector.
From next year, Year 11 students from Karratha Senior High School will be able to obtain a Certificate II Pre-Apprenticeship qualification in Electrotechnology Electrician or Engineering Mechanical Trade at North Regional TAFE.
This is part of the Pilbara Collaboration Charter, an initiative between the State Government and the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia and collaboration partners BHP, Chevron Australia, CITIC Pacific Mining, Fortescue Metals Group, Rio Tinto, Roy Hill, Woodside and Yara Pilbara.
These resources companies have committed to interview the students who complete these pre-apprenticeship courses with North Regional TAFE.
The two-year program will require Karratha Senior High School students to attend TAFE on a full-time basis during Term 4 of Year 11 and Term 1 of Year 12. The program will meet the requirements of the Western Australian Certificate of Education.
The Pilbara Collaboration Charter was developed in response to the Premier's request for industry and Government to work together to deliver further social and economic benefits to the Pilbara region.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"The first priority area for the Pilbara Collaboration was employment, education and training, particularly in the development of pathways to job creation. I am pleased this pre-apprenticeship for Karratha students is part of this collaboration.
"These trades will address local industry needs and encourage the employment of apprentices by local employers, and bridge the gap between training and employment."
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"This pre-apprenticeship program is about helping to ensure a pipeline of skilled local workers. The labour market review for the Pilbara highlighted that mechanical engineers and electricians were occupations that were difficult to fill locally.
"Extensive consultation undertaken by North Regional TAFE with employers in the region revealed the need to provide additional trade training services and greater opportunities for local residents.
"This program is designed to encourage young people in the Pilbara to consider trade-related employment opportunities."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"This is a fantastic State Government initiative ensuring our Pilbara youth will be trained for the local jobs of the future.
"I'm confident that the Pilbara Collaboration Charter will continue to deliver further social and economic benefits to the Pilbara region."
