Clontarf academies across New South Wales and Victoria recently took part in a series of Employment Forums.
The forums connected academy members with employers, training providers and industry leaders. They also gave young men the chance to explore future pathways, build confidence and learn more about life beyond school.
New South Wales academies explore future pathways
In New South Wales, academy members from Lake Illawarra, Moruya, Wyong and Northlakes attended regional Employment Forums.
They were joined by a wide range of industry and community partners. Across the forums, the boys asked questions and explored apprenticeships, traineeships, university pathways and employment options.
They also learned more about the skills and attitudes employers look for in the workplace. As a result, many academy members left with a clearer sense of direction and greater confidence about their future careers.
Moruya boys practise real-world skills
For Moruya Academy members, mock interviews and networking sessions were a major highlight.
The boys met with Clontarf partners including Bunnings, Kmart Australia, Qantas and Transgrid. These sessions gave them the chance to practise presenting themselves in a professional setting.
They also received valuable advice directly from industry representatives.
Victorian academies take part in Melbourne camp
In Victoria, academy members from across the state travelled to Melbourne for the VIC Employment Forum Camp.
The multi-day experience combined career development with leadership, education and sport. The boys took part in leadership activities at AFL Max, toured La Trobe University and competed in the VIC State Slam basketball carnival.
They also attended the Victorian Employment Forum featuring 28 partners and employers.
The speed networking format gave academy members direct access to employers. It helped them learn more about career pathways, apprenticeships, traineeships and workplace expectations.
Building confidence and connections
Across all events, the young men represented their academies with pride. They showed strong engagement, asked thoughtful questions and stepped outside their comfort zones.
Clontarf sincerely thanks all partners, industry representatives, training organisations and staff who helped make the forums a success.
