Employers asked to help disadvantaged
Employers are being asked to consider offering work experience to some of the disadvantaged youth on the Peninsula under the Job Placement, Employment and Training program.
Mr Mike Burnett, the manager of Workwise, which is charged with running the local program, said: "Many young people benefit from work experience as it assists them to build self-esteem and gain a sense of achievement."
The Federally funded program targets 15 to 21 year-olds "and covers all work experience costs for the employer during a placement".
Mr Burnett said support is provided by qualified youth workers.
Employers are under no obligation to maintain employment after the work experience period.
If you are an employer and would like to participate in the program or get more information, call Ted Stewart on 4353 2199.
Workwise at Ettalong also provides help for educationally disadvantaged unemployed youth each school term through the Helping Early Leavers Program (HELP).
The State funded program aims to help young people develop everyday literacy and numeracy, self esteem and social skills through courses.
HELP also aims to prevent unemployment by improving school retention by allocating a small number of places each term to school students 15-years-old and over who are at risk of leaving school early.
Four courses are offered each term and include an introduction to childcare, computers, creative arts or performing arts.
A spokesperson for Workwise said the course content is largely hands-on and every attempt is made to make each leaming experience enjoyable and therefore memorable.
Courses run for 10 weeks and attendance is 10 to 12 hours per week over two days.
For more information, telephone 4344 3040.
Carl Spears, February 18