Young people graduate

Thirteen Peninsula residents have graduated from a local youth education program aimed to help young people reconnect with further education, training and employment.

They were among 51 students who graduated from the Workwise Connections course on December 9.

The graduates received either a certificate in General Education (Year 10 equivalent) or a Statement of Attainment in General Education.

Member for Robertson Ms Belinda Neal presented the students with their certificates and congratulated them for completing the Workwise Connections course.

"Through the Connections program, the students graduating have grasped the opportunity to re-engage with education," Ms Neal said.

"This valuable Federally-funded program ensures all Australians have access to the opportunities that quality education provides.

"It is vital that youth - especially those who have become disengaged from education, further training or employment - have all the support they need," Ms Neal said.

"The qualification gained by the hard work and dedication of these students will act as a stepping stone to a brighter future, in which they can achieve full participation with further learning, employment and social engagement.

"I commend the WorkWise Central Coast team on this innovative and successful program and I congratulate all the students on their graduation."

Peninsula residents who completed the Workwise Connections course were Adam Berkey, Aron Dorsett, Belinda Ashcroft, Brett Butler, Blake Burling, Jessica Daniel, Mark Sutherland, Monica Stennett, Rhys Devinish-Weir, William Denne, Sarah Soars, Tara McDougall and Tori Hendry.

Press release, 9 Dec 2008 Belinda Neal, Member for Robertson