AGA has launched a new Trade Taster course to help Year 10 students stay engaged in their education and choose the right path for Years 11 and 12.

The new Multi-Industry Pathway program offers students the opportunity to explore a range of trades, including Automotive, Building and Construction, Plumbing and Electrical. Attending one day each week, participants are guided by dedicated trainers, learning the fundamentals of each trade in a hands-on environment and gaining the skills they need to succeed.

Participants can earn credits towards their Victorian Certificate of Education/Vocational Major (VCE/VM), giving them a valuable head start. The program also empowers young people to make informed decisions about their future careers.

Taylors Lakes Secondary College student Bevan Troia joined the program in Term One 2024. Now, he’s more confident about his career choices and finishing high school before eventually pursuing a trade.

Bevan enjoys weekly trips to AGA’s purpose-built training facility and would recommend the program to others, “If you don’t know what you want to do in school, I’d suggest to come here and try out the four main trades,” he said.

VDSS Coordinator Melissa Vella, highlighted the program’s innovative approach, saying they have thought outside the box and carefully embedded practical activities for each unit, “The trainers understanding the importance of making the program engaging for students and providing them with a clear understanding of what a year one program in their chosen trade would look like in Year 11,” she said.

The program was developed in partnership with local Department of Education staff, to meet the growing demand for vocational training among secondary students, particularly those in Year 10 who are exploring their career options.

Pictured from L to R: Alan Pump (Trainer and Assessor), Bevan Troia and Melissa Vella (VDSS Coordinator)