Terrigal students learn new construction skills

Terrigal High School students recently gained real world experience in a simulated construction site which saw them build two mobile workstations for their school.

The Construction Taster Program was led by a qualified carpenter who taught students how to use hand and small power tools to assemble the workstations.

The experience aims to inspire students to pursue construction pathways through school-based apprenticeships.

The event was delivered as part of the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) Program to support students in exploring and developing practical skills in the construction industry.

Students were provided the opportunity to ask questions and gain knowledge into the day in the life of an apprentice.

Regional Industry Education Partnerships officer (experience co-ordinator), Jill Giuliani, said the program allowed students to explore careers in the industry.

“By connecting them with local industry professionals, students are able to gain real world experience, practical skills and valuable insight into the range of roles and pathways into the industry,” she said.

Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said skills were the backbone of NSW.

“Every apprenticeship and traineeship completed is another win for our communities and economy,” he said.

“Skills open doors and training builds futures.

“We’re investing in both.

“For young people exploring their future, or for anyone looking to retrain or upskill, National Skills Week is a reminder that vocational education can lead to secure, rewarding, and meaningful careers.”

Student Levi Bilson-Clements said he was hoping to complete an apprenticeship and become a chippy after school.

“It gave me a bit of insight into what I could be doing,” he said of the program.

“I’ve learnt heaps and asked important questions like how to get into an apprenticeship because I don’t know anyone who’s in the industry.

“I’ve always been strong about wanting to be a carpenter.

“Since I was really little, I enjoyed working with wood and building.

“It’s made me strive to become a carpenter even more.

“I think a trade is one of the best options you can have.

“It’s super fun and active and it pays pretty well.”

Fellow student Joel Yapes said participants learnt how to properly measure and screw as they built the workbenches.

“We used different types of drills, like an impact drill and a normal house one,” he said.

“You’d use a normal drill to pre screw and then use the impact drill to screw big screws in to hold everything together.”

“Every kid should take a crack and see if they can do it.”

A third student, Laird McInnes, said the program also included a toolbox talk and information on safety and equipment.

“My dad’s a tradie so I was introduced to trades at a young age because of him,” he said.

“This experience has put me on the path towards going into a trade.”

National Skills Week (August 25-31) was an opportunity to celebrate vocational education and training (VET), the power of practical learning and its role in creating fulfilling career pathways.