Wagga Wagga’s young people embraced the opportunity to upskill as part of Wagga Wagga City Council’s Youth Spring School Holiday program.
The initiative delivered a wide range of subsidised national and state-based accredited certificates to give local youth more opportunities to participate in paid or volunteer work in our community.
Council’s Youth of Wagga Crew, a group of local young people aged 12-24 years who catch up each month for free in the Wagga Wagga City Library, co-designed a series of training opportunities for local youth.
The program provided young people with essential skills required to enter local hospitality employment, commence trade-based apprenticeships and volunteer in our local community.
Council’s Youth and Community Development Officer Mel Fattore said the sold-out program demonstrated the appetite young people have to take control of their future, while also being positive and active members of our local community.
“The Youth of Wagga Crew co-designed this program to give young people the opportunity to obtain valuable certificates and licences, such as Responsible Service of Alcohol, White Card licences and First Aid Certificates,” Ms Fattore said.
“Many young people have disclosed that they experience knock-backs when attempting to get a job or land a voluntary role because they don’t have the financial means to get the certificates and therefore the skills required to be competitive.
“Local young people advocated for these courses to be subsidised at a low-cost of $10, ensuring accessibility and affordability.
“The locations, times and promotional materials were also co-designed with Council’s Youth of Wagga Crew who played a key role in promoting the program across the city. They even heard their own voices on the radio advertising!”
Fourteen-year-old Rachel completed her First Aid Certificate as part of the program and is excited to put her new skills to use.
“Completing the First Aid training has had a meaningful impact on me personally, as I have learnt and been exposed to key skills and perspectives regarding First Aid,” Rachel said.
“I believe the First Aid skills I’ve learnt, whether it was around performing First Aid, communicating with people and understanding rules and regulations, are vital skills and lessons for a young person to have the opportunity to access and learn.”
