Beacon’s programs support young people to develop this focus through engaging and influencing the attitudes and behaviour of the broader community. By harnessing community involvement, it works within schools to ensure young people are either earning or learning at vulnerable transition points in their lives.
Here are some examples of the many Beacon activities scheduled throughout each year.
Charter signing
Beacon’s signature event where Grade 10s publicly make a pledge that by March of the following year they will be in further education, employment or training.
Supporting adults attend the charter signing, including members of local, state and commonwealth government, Beacon corporate partners and local business and community members.
Polish
A one day workshop that helps young people prepare for their careers through personal presentation and communication training, giving students the skills to conduct themselves appropriately when entering the world of work and throughout their employment. Core to the program is a sit-down lunch that gives students an opportunity to network with potential employers and use their newly found communication and culinary skills acquired in the morning tutorials.
Industry tours
Students and teachers undertake a hands-on tour of a business site to learn more about a specific industry and careers available within it.
Classroom industry sessions
Business visit the classroom to share their knowledge with students, matching real life situations to the school curriculum.
Mock interviews
Students engage with a business volunteer in a mock interview to practice and refine their job interview skills.
Lunch with the girls
A one day program targeting young women 15-16 year olds who are at risk of disengaging from school or are without a positive female role model.
Interaction with female mentors through participating in workshops on emotional intelligence is where the strength of the program lies. During the one day
program twenty girls are given the opportunity to engage with a group of successful professional women from a variety of backgrounds as mentors.
BBQ with the boys
A one day program targeting 15-16 year old young men who are at risk of disengaging from school or are without a positive male role model.
The 20 young men who participate in this one day program have the opportunity to interact extensively with male mentors through workshops and physical activities. The programs focus in on the development of self awareness, motivation, resilience and responsibility in all participants.
Buddy up
At risk students are matched one-on-one with a mentor to learn and practice employability skills over several weekly sessions.
Business events
An event for members of the local business community to initiate, build or celebrate business support for the school’s No Dole program.
Career snapshots
Workshops are run to enable students involved in the No Dole program to obtain up to date and first hand information about their future options. A range of businesses present to students about their industry and career paths.