KERANG Technical High School student Daniel Britten had not considered a career in agriculture before an extended work experience immersion with Nutrien Ag Solutions.
The Year 12 vocational major (VM) student said while he was more geared towards graphic design, the program opened his eyes to a wealth of post-school possibilities.
“The entire experience (with Nutrien Ag Solutions) was wonderful; lots to and learn and lots I didn’t know they did,” Mr Britten said.
“I really like to learn and am very interested, everything they had on offer was not something I’d considered before.”
Mr Britten and nine other VM students at Kerang Tech were part of the first Youth Take Over (YTO) program for the Gannawarra region.
The program is designed to enrich students’ outlook on the workforce, establish industry connections, develop new skills and foster personal growth.
Nutrien Ag Solution’s Terry Treacy worked with the group of Year 11 and 12 students and said it was good to see young people enjoy hands-on experience in the agriculture industry.
“Students who knew very little of agriculture now can see themselves taking it on as a path in the future,” he said.
Mr Treacy said he would “definitely” recommend other businesses take part in the YTO program.
Head of VM at Kerang Tech, Michelle Sutcliffe, said she was proud of her classes’ transition from being students in a school environment to young men in a professional space.
“The students have grown so much throughout (the program) in their confidence to interact with people in an outside environment,” she said.
Ms Sutcliffe said the program developed a range of vitally important soft skills and was especially beneficial for students unsure of the path to take after school.
The YTO program is overseen by the Murray Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN).
After the students gave a presentation detailing their experience, School to Work co-ordinator Kerryn Zanker spoke highly of all involved.
“Seeing the students from the beginning… and then being so strong in getting up and presenting today was a privilege,” Ms Zanker said.
“The program was a great success and today has proven that.”
Ms Zanker and Ms Sutcliffe thanked Nutrien Ag Solutions and branch manager Teagen Krop for their involvement and support for the program.
The Murray Mallee LLEN is looking for other businesses who are interested in taking part in the YTO program.
