St James’ was able to send an enthusiastic group of Year 9 students to Try A Trade last term. The first group attended the Building and Construction program at North Metropolitan TAFE for three days. The feedback from the TAFE lecturers was extremely positive and all students represented St James’ in a mature and responsible manner , making the most of the practical experience. The program is targeted at secondary school students and aimed at generating awareness and interest in the construction industry. During the program students practiced the skills of bricklaying, solid plastering and tiling.

The second group took part in the Electrical program at the College of Electrical Training in Joondalup to learn about career opportunities in the electrical field. The program was a fun, hands on experience that introduced them to the theory and practical aspects of an electrical apprenticeship. Electrical pre-apprenticeships can be undertaken as part of a students Year 11 and 12 study and gives students real experience that can assist them in the transition from school into the workforce and a successful apprenticeship.

In Year 11 and 12 students have the opportunity to attend TAFE up to two days week as part of their Senior School Courses. Vocation and Education training (VET) is a combination of theoretical and practical learning that is made up of Nationally recognised Industry qualification and competencies.