Around 140 senior academy members from across Western Australia recently came together for the annual Perth Employment Forum, Clontarf’s largest employment-focused event in the state.
The forum brought together Year 11 and 12 academy members from Esperance, Gilmore, Northam, Cecil Andrews, Yule Brook, Kiara, Belmont, Kent Street, Scotch College, Fremantle, St Mary’s, Broome, Ellenbrook, Swan View, Butler and Girrawheen academies.
With 26 partner organisations in attendance, the event gave participants the opportunity to explore a wide range of industries, meet employers and build confidence as they prepare for life beyond school.
The forum opened with an Acknowledgement of Country delivered by Xavier Dickie from Girrawheen Academy, before Clontarf Chief Executive Officer James McNamee addressed the group. Guest speaker Darren McCauley also shared his insights with the young men, while Clontarf alumnus Richard Dorizzi, now working with Mineral Resources, served as MC for the event.
Across the day, academy members rotated through a series of practical employment-focused activities. These included expo stations with partner organisations, mock interviews, speed networking and a session focused on resilience and finishing school strongly, led by Graduating Class of 2002 alumnus Jeff Farrell.
The final rotation gave participants the chance to engage with hands-on industry displays, including VR goggles provided by Rio Tinto, simulators provided by Mineral Resources and trucks and machinery brought along by Tutt Bryant.
For many of the young men, the forum provided a valuable opportunity to think more seriously about their future options and the steps they can take now to prepare for work, training or further study after school.
William Heelan from Kiara Academy said Clontarf had helped him feel more confident about his future.
“Clontarf has helped me feel more confident about where I’m heading. Being part of the program has given me support at school and opened my eyes to different opportunities after school,” William said.
Robert Farmer from Scotch College said the forum helped him better understand the range of opportunities available.
“The Employment Forum was a good chance to meet people and hear about different jobs. It made me think more seriously about my future and what I need to do now to get there,” Robert said.
Claude from Esperance Academy said the support of Clontarf had helped him remain focused.
“Clontarf has helped me stay focused and keep moving forward. The support from the staff and the opportunities through the program have made a big difference for me,” Claude said.
Lawrence Williams from Broome Academy said meeting employers and learning about different industries had helped build his confidence.
“It was good to speak with employers and learn more about what is out there. Clontarf gives us chances like this, and it helps us build confidence for the future,” Lawrence said.
