Tayla’s Gap Year Pays Off!

Through her AFL SportsReady traineeship, Tayla Grech has gained a nationally recognised qualification and valuable work experience to help her achieve her career dreams of joining the police force.

‘I wanted to do a paid gap year that could really benefit me in the long run and AFL SportsReady gave me the opportunity to do just that,’ said Tayla.

‘I loved the traineeship and gained so much out of it that I’m doing another one next year. How could I not!’

Tayla has almost completed her PE Assistant traineeship at Rosehill Secondary College as well as her Certificate III in Sport and Recreation and next year will take on a second traineeship at Victoria University. Although her future plan is to work in the police force, the traineeship gives her a range of skills and experience that will set her up for whatever career she chooses.

‘If I don’t end up getting into the police force the traineeship has given me a second option, to be a PE teacher,’ exclaimed Tayla.

‘You get to work in an industry that interests you so you can decide if you like it nor not. For me, I have always had an interest in PE and by doing this traineeship I know that I can really see myself as a PE teacher.’

‘I get to do everything a teacher does like preparing for classes, auditing, admin work and even assist in teaching. I get to go on camps and excursions too.
A few weeks ago we went to Port Melbourne to go snorkelling. It was incredible and something I never thought I would ever get to do,’ she continued.

The traineeship not only offers a combination of on-the-job paid work experience and study, the program is also designed to support the trainee every step of the way.

‘AFL SportsReady have been constantly there for me. My field officer checks up on me regularly to make sure I’m feeling supported and comfortable in my work place. My work mates have also been really supportive and made me feel a part of the team.’

‘It’s going to be really hard to leave here in a few weeks, everyone has been so amazing and I have made great friendships. But I’m excited to take on my next traineeship.’ she smiled.