Students at Kennedy Baptist College have the opportunity to complete vocational studies through the VET delivered to Secondary Students (VETdSS) program. In this issue, we feature Sacha who is completing her Certificate II in Automotive Servicing at South Metro TAFE and is currently completing her work placement component at Titan Ford. We catch up with her at the workshop to find out more about her course.
Can you tell us a little bit about your course?
I’m completing the Certificate II in Automotive Servicing, which is a pre-apprenticeship course at South Metro TAFE. I started with the Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation last year and was selected to continue with the pre-apprenticeship program- the Cert II in Auto Servicing.
So the pre-apprenticeship course requires you to do work placement?
Yes. The Cert II in Auto Servicing (Pre-apprenticeship) requires 180 hours of work placement along with normal TAFE studies.
How did you land this placement at Titan Ford?
Towards the end of last year, when I got selected for the pre-apprenticeship program and found out about the work placement requirement, I actually visited a few auto service centres, passed them my résumé and had a chat with the service managers when given the chance. Titan Ford was the first one to offer me a place- something that I was hoping for, as it was my first choice. You need to be proactive and do the leg work if you want to land a work placement, or a job, for that matter.
What is it like doing work placement here at Titan Ford?
It’s a positive work environment. Even though I’m one of only a few females in the workshop, I’m treated like one of the guys. I can always rely on the help of my supervisor when needed and the technicians are all very friendly. I work the full 8 hours from 8 AM to 4 PM, but we do have a 30-minute lunch break.
How do you manage to juggle school studies, VET studies and your work placement?
I need to manage my time carefully, but I’m thankful for the Study Periods that I’ve been given at school, as it helps me catch up on school work. I can also contact my school teachers and TAFE lecturers when needed.
Would you recommend this course to others?
Definitely, especially if you’re interested in automotive mechanics. It can be hard work, but I like the opportunity that this course has given me to get out of my comfort zone. Would definitely recommend.
Sacha is in the process of applying for an apprenticeship with Titan Ford which she hopes to start next year. We wish her all the best!
Mr Ernesto Ramirez
VET/Workplace Learning/S.I.D.E. Coordinator
