VOCATIONAL PATHWAY SUCCESS
Congratulations to Tec-NQ House year 12 student James for starting his school-based plumbing apprenticeship during 2024. James joined Tec-NQ as a boarding student in 2022 and came from St. Teresa’s College Abergowrie as a shy Year 10 student.
Through volunteer work experience programs across north and west Queensland, students get to test out different industries to see what suits them best. Many students go onto secure school-based apprenticeships where they are paid to learn, before transitioning to full time apprenticeships once they graduate from year 12.
“I started doing work placement first and then I was offered the school-based apprenticeship,” James commented. “I’m really enjoying it. There is lots to learn,” he added.
James heads home to Torres Strait on the school holidays to catch up with family, friends, to play touch football and go fishing. On weekends during the school term, James plays for South Bulls Rugby League, as well as our Tec-NQ Taipans inter-school team! He is a big fan of AJ Brimson from the Gold Coast Titans. Getting his apprenticeship has been the highlight for James as his hard work has paid off. “James now has a permanent smile on his face and is enjoying learning the knowledge of plumbing while on the job.” Heather our Student Welfare Manager mentioned.
James has worked hard to turn his volunteer work placement at Clive Williams Plumbing into a paid school-based apprenticeship. James has also been invited to take advantage of the 13th year at Tec-NQ House where he can live semi-independently for the first year of his full-time apprenticeship, with support from Tec-NQ House staff and a familiar environment. To learn more about what Tec-NQ House has to offer, please visit https://www.tecnq.com.au/boarding/
