Returning to School as a Trainee
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For many school leavers, staying at their school for a traineeship feels like a safe choice. The familiarity of the environment, staff and routines can make starting a career way less daunting.
From her early days at Mount Lilydale Mercy College, Trainee Olivia Gardeniers was always really involved in the outdoor education and sports department. Reflecting on her six years at the school;
Seeing the other Trainees throughout the years was inspiring.
I thought, ‘Oh, I could do something like that.’ So, I applied.
But stepping outside your comfort zone and joining a new school can also be a great experience, filled with opportunities for growth and independence.
Some schools in the AFL SportsReady program recruit Trainees from nearby schools, encouraging individuals to start fresh in a new environment. This change can be exciting and challenging, helping you develop skills like adaptability, resilience and confidence. For those ready to take a leap, a traineeship in a new setting can be a rewarding experience that prepares you for future opportunities.
Sport Trainee, Lexie Shaw spent her high school years at Billanook College and initially considered a future far removed from education.
Searching for more change propelled her to explore other opportunities.
I just started looking at any option and I found this traineeship online.
…seemed too good to be true.
Both Olivia and Lexie scored themselves a role at Mount Lilydale Mercy College together.
Each has very different experiences. For Lexie, the behind-the-scenes work has given her a newfound appreciation for the complexities of running school sports.
Being an Outdoor education Trainee has its challenges initially for Olivia. Especially when transitioning from student to Staff. Olivia admitted she thought it would be difficult and awkward. However, the support of staff members and respectful students made it easier.
The kids have been great. They listen and respect me. The older ones understand I am now a staff member and the younger ones just see me as Staff.
Schools often offer a range of roles tailored to different interests and career goals. Some schools provide opportunities in up to 12 different departments, including IT support, Sports, administration, arts and classroom assistance. This variety means you can explore multiple pathways, gain hands-on experience and discover what really excites you about a potential career.
For those considering a career in teaching, a school-based traineeship is an ideal way to test the waters before committing to university. Spending a year in a supportive school environment allows you to explore what it’s like to work with students and understand the demands of the role.
Even if teaching isn’t your ultimate goal,
a traineeship offers valuable skills and qualifications that can open doors to other career paths.
It’s an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen organisational abilities and experience real-life workplace situations.
Whether you stay on at your school or embrace the different challenges of starting at a new one.
Heading back to school could be the perfect stepping stone for discovering your future career.
WHAT ARE TRAINEESHIPS?
A paid, employment and education training program that gives you a nationally recognised qualification. They are usually full-time, but can also be part-time or school-based. To find out more and a place to submit an expression of interest click this link.
Are you a recent high school graduate unsure about your path for the upcoming year? AFL SportsReady is calling for expressions of interest from individuals like you who are eager to secure a traineeship. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop valuable skills and kickstart your career journey.
Don’t miss this chance to shape your future – express your interest in a traineeship now!
