Peninsula consultant is appointed

Youth Connections Inc has appointed Alison Bush as its Peninsula consultant, advising on pathways from school to work or further education.

"She will offer services to both of the Brisbane Water Secondary College campuses, at Woy Woy and Umina," said manager Ms Maggie MacFie said.

"Alison is an experienced consultant having worked with 'at risk' young people for approximately 10 years," Ms MacFie said.

"Alison is a member of the Mingaletta Community, and has previously been working with 'at risk' youth at Woy Woy Campus for the past two and a half years.

"Alison is looking forward to continuing her work with young people on the Peninsula, and ensuring that all 'at risk' young people get accurate and up-to-date information and support, on their individual pathway from school to further education, employment or training."

Youth Connections Inc has gained a contract to service the Central Coast with the Youth Pathways Program, from January to December 2008, said Ms MacFie.

Ms MacFie said that, for the first time, all schools across Australia would have access to structured work experience and industry-led careers guidance.

"The Australian Network of Industry Careers Advisers will include the newly-expanded Local Community Partnerships (LCP) Network to complement the new Youth Pathways program," Ms MacFie said.

"The role of LCPs has been expanded and will now cover Structured Workplace Learning, the Career and Transition Support program and the Adopt-a-School initiative.

"LCPs will partner with industry and career practitioners to support young people to obtain skills, relevant experience, and professional guidance to help them identify their potential, understand study, training and work options, and plan for their future.

"In addition, from 2006, Youth Pathways will replace the Jobs Pathway Program and will enhance the effectiveness of ANICA by addressing the needs of those young people most at risk of not making a smooth transition through school and from school to further education, training and work."

Ms MacFie said the new program would aim to retain these young people in school through to Year 12.

"It will also facilitate access to and successful participation in non-school based education, vocational learning and training, and prepare young people for participation in Job Network activities," Ms MacFie said.

"The Australian Government strongly believes that no young person should feel that the value of their life is determined by the educational choices they make.

"Apprenticeships, TAFE or University must be equally valued and all students have a right to professional, accurate and balanced careers advice."

Press release, January 16 Maggie MacFie, Youth Connections Inc