YOUTH Express' SWITCH Mentoring Program delivers great results for Hunter high school students

So, the approach in directing each child towards employment should not always be the same.

From October 2016 to April 2017, Youth Express facilitated a new SWITCH program for students in Years 9 to 12.

The participants were chosen based on their risk of disengaging from school.

Some of the program’s activities included developing individual transition plans, resume development, work preparation skills, linking young people to employment outcomes, raising awareness of available traineeships and apprenticeships, and looking at education and training pathways.

Mentors work one-on-one with small groups of referred students, helping them SWITCH their thinking and see the value in education, and what employment would interest them.

On Thursday, graduates attended a ceremony where they were presented with certificates of completion.

Some were unable to attend sue to work commitments – proof of the program’s success.

Singleton High School careers advisor Annie Phillips said the program supported students who would normally slip between the cracks.

“In our position we are about creating career opportunities for students and everyone’s on a different journey,” she said.

The SWITCH Mentoring Program is available to Hunter schools.

For more information about the program and service fees, contact 4931 2777 or admin@youthexpress.com.au