BUSY's mentoring program success set to continue
Published Thursday, 14 June 2012 at 11:19am
BUSY At Work has been successful in securing Federal funding to deliver a mentoring program for Australian Apprentices.
Over the next 12 months BUSY will work in collaboration with a range of industry groups to mentor over 2600 apprentices in skills shortage occupations throughout Queensland.
Paul Miles, Deputy CEO of BUSY At Work, said the funding was vital as completion rates for some apprentices are as low as 50 per cent.
“As an organisation that works every day with businesses and their apprentices across Queensland we know how difficult it is for some apprentices to stay in their roles," Mr Miles said.
“This increased support will go a long way to help boost apprentice retention rates, particularly in the crucial first year of training.
“Quite often young apprentices who have just stepped into the workforce struggle with things more experienced workers take for granted. This can be something as simple as travelling to work or to their training provider such as TAFE, managing their personal budgets or even the best way to approach workplace issues.
“It’s good for the employers as well, many of whom do not have the time or experience to manage the issues that arise for young people."
Obtaining this latest mentoring contract reflects BUSY’s outstanding performance in the pilot mentoring program in 2011. The pilot program was delivered over 18 months and achieved a retention rate of nearly 90 per cent from 1260 young apprentices in skills shortage industries.
“For BUSY At Work improving retention is our priority," Mr Miles said.
BUSY At Work mentors will work directly with apprentices, employers, parents businesses and schools across Queensland. The mentors will provide advice and dedicated support directly to apprentices to help them through their apprenticeship.
BUSY At Work will deliver the new mentoring program in addition to the services currently provided as an Australian Apprenticeships Centre.
About BUSY At Work
BUSY At Work is a not-for-profit organisation within apprenticeships and employment and has played a key role in growing apprenticeship and traineeship numbers throughout Queensland.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Renee Ferenc
Marketing and Communications Manager
0438 173 960
