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It was a freezing and bleak afternoon. The sun wasn’t shining and it was raining. I looked at the clock on the dash just before stepping out of the car. 4:55p.m. Good, I’m early. A quick goodbye and good luck and Dad drove off, leaving me standing in front of the blue building that is Advance Computing. I quickly walked through the doors to escape the cold, and found myself in a world of warmth. I asked for Mark Schumann at the front counter, and was told that he would be a couple of minutes. Okay, time to go over how I’m feeling:

• Nerves: Calmed down
• Composure: Friendly
• Body language: Slightly arrogant. Hmmm… I’m going to have to change that one.
• Posture: Not that straight. Must remember to straighten out.

After those points had been sorted and figured out, I set about looking at the items for sale. iPod earphones with mic, $45.00 (Mental note: remember price for friend). Apple remotes have been redesigned, I didn’t know that. The only games being sold are World Of Warcraft, Oh… moving on. Technetics data recovery, Mum’s computer could probably need this, must keep in mind. A door opened to the left of the store and Mark stepped in offering his right hand. Immediately, the only thing that was in my head was “Shake his hand, don’t screw up!” I offered my salutations with a simple G’day, he returned by saying something I didn’t quite hear. There was an awkward pause. “Quick!” I thought. “Say something intelligent!” Next I heard the stupidest thing I could have possibly said come out of my mouth. “G’day” I said again. Alarm bells. WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?! Mark turned on his heels, and I nearly punched myself in the face while he wasn’t looking. My usually bullet-proof nerves had just taken the worst beating in their life. I wasn’t looking forward to the next half-hour…

…At the end of the interview, I had regained my composure and my nerves had recovered. My back was killing me as I had sat in an uncomfortable position for the entire interview, but apart from that I was fine. I was told by Mark that I was perfect in every respect. Except that I should use more examples and extend on my answers, not to focus on one topic. And that I should try to demonstrate in my resume more, that I have a passion for I.T. After a general summary of the interview, I was given a goodbye and shown the door. Whoa. Was it this dark when I went in? 5:45p.m. 45 minutes, that was a lot longer than I expected. I phoned Dad and I left for home.

Overall, the mock interview was one of the best experiences of my life. Even though I almost resorted to grievous bodily harm. I would thoroughly recommend that everybody have a mock interview in Year 10, regardless of the job you are being interviewed for, even if it isn’t one that you have an interest in. It is a really good experience that is not to be missed. It gives you pointers and tips to look out for the next time you have a real interview. I must commend the efforts made by the Beacon foundation, Mr. Henderson and Mary Livingston. There is so much to say to you, but I think a simple thank you is in order. So to all of you who helped with the interviews, especially those mentioned above, thank you. From all of the Year 10’s.

The Beacon Foundation connected over 40 year 10 students with local industry experts as part of an Agriculture Industry day held on the Atherton Tablelands.(Tuesday May 11)

Students and teachers from Malanda, Atherton and Ravenshoe State High schools toured local business sites of Gallo Dairyland, Yuruga Nursery and Morganbury Meats gaining exposure to a diverse range of opportunities available within industry.

Beacon’s North Queensland Coordinator Yew Ling Tan says “Industry engagement is important for students to help them gain insight into industry and the world of work so they can make more informed decisions about their futures.”

The all day program also included a Speed Careering event with guest speakers from the Department of Employment Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), Advanced Rural, Agforce and the Australian Agricultural College Corporation.

“I’ve learnt that the industry is enjoyable, but a lot of hard work and time” said Malanda State High school student Anna Douhl.

National not for profit organisation, Beacon Foundation works in schools to help young people, typically at year 10 level, with the school to work transition, implementing programs in partnership with the community to equip students with the skills, knowledge and opportunities they require to make positive choices about their future.

In a massive undertaking for Narre Warren South P-12 College, a record 220 mock interviews were held for the entire year 10 cohort at the school over two days.

Mock interviews are considered an extremely important tool for students about to embark on work experience, casual employment or full time employment. As part of the Beacon Foundation’s No Dole program being run through the school’s “Reach for the Future” program, the mock interviews gave  students the opportunity to practice interview techniques before heading into the real world of work.

Beacon Foundation Victorian Coordinator Annette Torok said the school trialed the mock interview process with a small group last year with great success, and while organizing mock interviews for 220 students had been a huge undertaking, it was an extremely worthwhile process.

 “The objective behind the mock interviews is to give the Year 10 students the opportunity to hone their employment application skills including letter writing, resume writing, and how to present themselves at an interview. The program is conducted as part of the year 10 curriculum,” Ms Torok said.
 
The local community has been extremely supportive of the mock interview program, with business and community people joining teachers and Beacon Foundation staff to put the 220 students through their paces.

Ms Torok said most students have had minimal, if any, experience in these skills areas.
“Many have not had any previous work history. For the students, this process was something that really challenged them and took them out of their comfort zone. They will value the feedback given by panel members about their application and interview skills,” she said.

Students were split into two massive groups over the two days, with one lot interviewing, while the other participated in an industry tour. Industry tours are also part of the Reach for the Future - No Dole program at Narre Warren which aims to inspire and motivate students towards positive career pathways. 

“Giving students the opportunity first hand to see and experience what is involved in various industries helps them make informed choices about their future. Add to that a program such as mock interviews that provide practical skills and knowledge for students, and we are on our way to building confidence in young people as they embark on a positive pathway,” Ms Torok said.

Students will also be offered other programs such as work experience in September, access to Beacon’s popular work ready program “Polish”, and leadership opportunities through the Beacon Student Ambassador program.

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The Beacon Foundation hosted its annual Western Australia Student Ambassador Conference on March 24 with great success.

The day was designed to introduce the 2010 Beacon Student Ambassadors (BSA) to their new role for the year and inspire positive steps towards a bright future. Year 10 representatives attended from Balga SHS, Bullsbrook DHS Kent ST. SHS, Lockridge SHS, Swan View SHS and Yule Brook College.

This year’s conference was held at the Empyrean Function Centre (www.empyrean.net.au) , an old Imax theatre that has been turned into a spectacular, exciting and different space to hold a function. Alison Ringuet, Empyrean’s Venue Manager, kindly donated not only the venue but her time and assistance to help make the conference a success.

During the day, students were treated to a workshop on public speaking by Peter McLean, managing director of Lamplighter Performance Consulting (www.lamplighter.com.au ). Students learnt about the three C’s of authentic public speaking.

Beth Shaw, former Youth UN representative also took time out of her busy schedule as a lawyer to talk to the students about her journey and her adventures during her time at university and becoming the youth UN Representative.

The day was rounded off by a session of Speed Careering, a chance for students to get a snapshot of the careers of four guest speakers, Adam Galvin, designer draftsman, Hari Sitha, owner manager of a recruitment company, Jane Crawford of Rio Tinto and Vivienne Keeley a youth worker from Mission Australia. Students got to speak to these guests in small groups and ask questions and learn about their various careers.

The Beacon Student Ambassador conference is an annual event and kicks off a year long program of interactive, practical events as part of the No Dole program for this year’s year 10 students at Beacon schools.

A $25,000 Schools First award was last year awarded to the partnership between Beacon Foundation and Endeavour Hills Secondary College for their outstanding work in improving student outcomes through their No Dole program, which addresses youth unemployment giving students the skills to identify and access appropriate employment opportunities, further training or education.

This was one of 88 Schools First awards provided nationwide to primary and secondary schools and their community partners. The awards recognised the partnerships’ direct impact on improved student outcomes, including greater engagement and increased attendance; improved literacy or numeracy; increased self-esteem; social, vocational or civic outcomes; global awareness and action.

In 2010, Schools First has $5.2 million to award to 108 school community partnerships. Schools First is open to all community partners who have partnerships with primary and secondary schools across Australia.  Benefits to the community partners can include increased participation in the local community, strengthening of industry pathways for workplace development, increase in staff engagement and development, as well as increasing the promotion of other programs or services.

“It is important to note that award winning partnerships in 2009 included a broad range of community groups including not-for-profit organisations, local government, industry bodies, universities, small and big businesses, sporting organisations to name a few”, said Jodi Cryan, Head of Schools First, NAB.

Schools First is brought to life by NAB in partnership with The Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) and Australian Council For Educational Research (ACER).

“As a 2009 award winner, Beacon Foundation has proven its leadership in school partnerships,” said Cryan. “Schools First would like to encourage other associated organisations to get involved in Schools First in 2010.”

There are several ways that community organisations can get involved in 2010. The first is to attend one of the over 30 Partnership Forums across the country in April to early June. These forums will provide information about what makes a successful partnership, and is an invaluable opportunity to meet with like-minded locals and explore potential new school–community partnerships.  Registrations for the forums are now open at www.schoolsfirst.edu.au.

If you cannot attend a forum, visit the Schools First website where all content from Partnership Forums will be available. A direct channel to ask questions of ACER and FYA will also be available on the website, along with a wealth of other resources including application guidelines and key dates for 2010.

Additionally, the website provides an on-line “partnership matching service” where community organisations and schools can search for a partner if they don’t already have one.

Funds are allocated to the winning schools to invest directly back into their award-winning partnership.

Click here to listen to the interview

One hundred and sixty students took a special pledge to be engaged in employment, training or further studies by April next year.

It's called the No Dole Community Links program; it is run through the not-for-profit Beacon Foundation.

Shepparton High School principal Phil Squire says the Beacon Foundation has been operating in Australia for about 14 or 15 years.

The Beacon Foundation encourages young people to be independent and strive for personal success.

It is about providing positive solutions to youth unemployment.

"Basically [the No Dole Community Links program], it's working with communities and building partnerships through schools to try and provide as many opportunities for students to make broad career decisions and developed pathways beyond school.

"We are calling it No Dole Community Links here at Shepparton High School with the aim that students are making a commitment towards their future that they will continue on in further education, training or employment and won't leave school or go on the dole."

It's an opportunity for the business community to be able to link up to schools and have some input.

Squires says businesses are keen to be involved.

"This is the vehicle to ensure that there is a way for people beyond our school to get involved and help our young people make some choices about their future."

This is the first year of No Dole Community Links at Shepparton High School.

"It's a starting point we have got a whole range of areas that have committed their time."

It's a chance for businesses and companies to create work experience opportunities for students or for business representatives to go to the school and talk about their industries and invite students to see their companies firsthand.

Similar programs are currently running in Euroa, Alexander, Yea and Echuca.

Squires says pledge day is not only symbolic for the students but it also symbolises the commitment of the wider community.

"We have got community members, parents and teachers that are supporting the students.

"They are saying that we are doing everything we can to provide opportunities to support students on where they will head in the next couple of years."

The school will measure the success of the program in various ways.

"We have got our data that we measure in terms of students that go onto further education, but ultimately it's going to be about broadening the student's pathways and the variety of career paths that our students might take off on.

"We will certainly be closely monitoring the pathways of students beyond school."

Western Port Secondary College students and invited students from Somerville Secondary College have had their say on a message that will be presented to the United Nations later this month.

They have also contributed to a “Dear Kevin” banner, putting forth their concerns to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

Australia’s youth representative to the United Nations (UN), Chris Varney visited Western Port Secondary on August 28, as part of a month–long national tour to gauge issues of concern among the nation’s young people.  In a few weeks the 22-year old Victorian arts and law student will address the UN General Assembly and wants to make sure his talk represents his peers. A little in awe of his ‘exciting opportunity”, Mr Varney said “the chance to engage in discussions at the highest level is something I never imagined.” 

 “The engagement tour has been the most challenging and insightful part of the position so far.”    

“Hearing the concerns that Australians have about their futures and the world they will inherit is so rewarding.”

Mr Varney has some interesting bedtime reading for Mr Rudd – on his travels he has been collecting “Dear Kevin” stories, letters and artwork by young people, which he plans to present to Mr Rudd when he completes his term.

On Wednesday August 5, a group of year 10 English students from Western Port Secondary College travelled to RMIT in Melbourne and visited community radio station, SYN 90.7fm. After spending time at the station, the students created their own radio program including devising their own discussion topics and selecting the music. The excursion was offered through the Beacon Program and WPSC’s Beacon Coordinator Gina Mathers.
 
“On the 5/8/09 my English class went to the city with our teacher Ms Mathers. The reason we went to the city was to experience what it is like to work, talk and be part of a radio station. The radio station we went to was called SYN. Their frequency is 90.7 fm but I don’t know if it can reach down here. When we got there we first had to get into groups of 3 – 4 and think of segments to talk about. My group was Steven, Tyson and me. Our group was picked to go first to be recorded and our segment was about funny and epic failure videos on YouTube. After we had finished talking Steven said what song was coming up and the next group went.  It was heaps of fun and a really good day.” Kyle DeLaHaye

“It was an amazing experience that I will never forget. I would love to visit again. It has given me a new look on possible career paths.” Nick Laing

“We went to SYN radio station. It was a long drive up there but we made it fun. It was a great experience, we walked around Lygon St looking for cafes and restaurants for lunch. We recorded our own radio conversations, we were cool as.” Sam James

“The trip to the radio station was a good experience. We got to wander up and down Lygon St then we went to SYN radio station and we did an off air show.” Nathan Cook

“It was amazing. We all had a really good day wandering around Lygon St. It was really different working in a radio station with your friends. The radio station was different it didn’t look like the ones that are on TV. Overall it was great fun and everyone had lots of fun, what an experience!” Leanne Choy

“The radio recording was fun. We made it funny and it was really easy to do. My group did bad TV shows like ‘Bold and the Beautiful’. I chose to talk about ‘Packed to the Rafters’. James Stanford

“Dylan spoke to us and showed us around. I thought that going to a radio station wasn’t going to be that great. But it turned out AMAZING!!  It was awesome. Everyone had a great time. Just didn’t like the bus trip though. The radio station didn’t look like I thought it would. It was really different, really cool!” Dianne Macintyre

“Going to SYN radio station was really good fun. It was a great day. I was in a group with Rhee and James. They didn’t talk much. Luckily I am excellent at talking lots. Being able to walk around the city (Lygon St) was good too and eating heaps of food.” Alana Guest

“Going to SYN radio station was a real experience, we got to learn a little bit about how a radio station works and how much effort they put in from the music to the segments to putting it live across the airways. It was a lot of fun.” Rhiannon Henderson

For the students it was a unique and interesting experience to which they would not usually be exposed and they certainly proved themselves in being confident and showing a lot of initiative in adlibbing and holding a discussion with very little preparation when they recorded their ‘radio show’. The students were also able to visit Lygon St and experience the many and varied cafes for lunch. Thanks to Gina Mathers and Caroline Malia for assisting on the day. It was a great day.

Jill Mathers
Yr 10 English Teacher

The Upper Coomera State College Beacon Student Ambassador program began with a bang on Thursday July 30 when ten exemplary year 10 students participated in a long day induction seminar.

The students met with the Queensland Coordinator, Nicohle Pritchard who conducted a host of activities and workshops to hone the leadership skills of our newly appointed ambassadors.

The Beacon Foundation is a national non-profit organisation that seeks to influence the attitudes and culture of Australians so that each young person develops an independent will to achieve personal success for themselves and their community. Beacon currently collaborates with 105 schools all over Australia.

Congratulations Mao Otani, Mario Mitov, Astina Walker, Kahli Hobbs, Chantelle Tipene, Aaron Chad, Tamara Palmer, Sarah Tetlow, Mart-Mari Moller and Sarah Guillaume on your new leadership appointments.

We would also like to extend our thanks to Mr Ogier, Mr Menon and Ms Davies for their help and support towards the Beacon Foundation.

Overall it was a great day filled with learning and all student ambassadors are looking forward to their next meeting where they can begin to plan some new and exciting events.

Sarah Guillaume
Year 10 Student