This award is presented to a student who is undertaking a Certificate II or above qualification as a part-time school-based apprentice or trainee.
The award recognises the student’s commitment to their formal studies at school and in the workplace.
Proudly sponsored by the Department for Education
Jacob is completing a school-based apprenticeship – a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician – while finishing Year 12. He is gaining hands-on experience with Watson Fitzgerald & Associates, who have played an important role in his development as a student and an apprentice.
Jacob’s interest in construction and infrastructure started early; fascinated by how things are built and powered, he wanted to be part of that process. Electrotechnology attracted Jacob because it is essential to society and constantly evolving.
Balancing his apprenticeship with subjects like specialist maths and physics has been a challenge, but by staying focused he has consistently achieved sound results.
Jacob takes pride in being someone his classmates can rely on for help with understanding concepts, or by sharing study strategies.
On site, Jacob has developed skills in installation, safety, planning, and teamwork. Tradespeople and co-workers have given him encouraging feedback, which motivates him to keep learning and improving.
Jesse is undertaking a school-based apprenticeship, thriving in vocational education after finding traditional schooling challenging. Completing his SACE while working with New Heights Plumbing, he is training toward a Certificate III in Plumbing. Jesse is building valuable trade skills, confidence, and experience that will shape his future career in plumbing.
Genuinely proud of how far he has come, Jesse acknowledges that he wouldn’t be where he is today without the support and guidance of his parents, school, employer, and Trainee & Apprentice Placement Service.
During his time at Cardijn College, he has been honoured to receive multiple Marcellin Excellence Awards, presented by trade trainers and teachers in recognition of students who excel in their trade and classroom work.
The hands-on nature of trade work suits the way Jesse’s mind works – he stays interested, learns quickly, and feels proud of what he accomplishes each day on site.
Mikayla is currently completing her Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, a school-based apprenticeship, at the Feathers Hotel. She attends school full-time and works at the hotel, gaining real-world experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment developing her culinary skills and professionalism.
Her journey began with a love for food, creativity, and hands-on learning; Mikayla was drawn to the energy of the kitchen and the satisfaction of creating an experience that brings people together. Being part of a working kitchen has confirmed that this is the path for her.
Alongside her training, she has taken on leadership roles at school, serving as Head Prefect and President of the Key Club, where she led projects such as the SEED initiative, revegetation of Foresters Forest, Harmony Day events, and a social media workshop for younger students. Mikayla, also a member of the Governing Council, founded Project EARTH to promote environmental sustainability.
Saffron has long been driven by a passion to enter a trade, challenge conventional stereotypes, and engage in fulfilling work; pursuing a Certificate III in Carpentry demonstrates to other young women that this rewarding trade is not exclusive to men.
Saffron began a work experience placement in Victoria with a local builder; relocating to Renmark, she commenced a carpentry apprenticeship, working on residential, commercial, private, and insurance work projects, and was nominated as a finalist for a Riverland and Mallee Vocational Award.
Saffron finds teamwork important because it brings together diverse perspectives, ideas, and skills, which leads to enhanced problem-solving capabilities and efficient solutions. Sharing techniques in a collaborative environment provides the foundation for her success.
With a strong appetite for continuous improvement, Saffron consistently challenges her limitations to expand her knowledge. She has a dedicated work ethic and focuses on overcoming obstacles, putting in extra effort to better herself.