Students Learn by Doing

23-04-2009

Through the Adopt a School program, businesses are encouraged to give young people hands-on learning experiences in specific industry sectors. It builds strong and ongoing partnerships between businesses and schools, which benefit all those involved.

Through the program, students gain real experience, learn about career opportunities and find out about the kinds of skills employers are looking for. Local businesses gain experience in working with today’s young people and have a hand in shaping their future workforce.

Adopt a School also focuses on meeting future skills needs by encouraging learning in new and emerging industry sectors and those with current or predicted skills shortages. It helps participants to develop positive attitudes about local businesses, and aims to dispel negative and outdated perceptions.

A typical Adopt a School project is set within a particular industry sector and runs to a project plan. It gives participating students hands-on learning under the guidance of an industry mentor and produces a defined finished product. When the project is completed, a student awards evening or community-based event is often held to celebrate the project and the cooperation of all involved.

Adopt a School projects can be based in business or industry, in the community or in schools. They include activities such as:

  • building a product
  • planning an event
  • tours, site visits and excursions
  • speakers and demonstrations
  • student research and enterprise projects
  • mentoring by industry specialists and local businesses
  • projects with industry specific hands-on learning
  • competitions and games.

In 2008 Hills Schools Industry Partnership facilitated the following projects:

  • Woolworths Bake-off where students were introduced to the Woolworths bakery over a 6 week period. They were trained in some of the many skills required in the baking process.
  • Solar Boat Challenge required students to build a remote controlled solar Boat with the assistance of industry mentors.
  • Hospitality projects were conducted in two schools providing students with the opportunity to cater for local business people at a function. Learning from a commercial chef, students put into practice what they learn in class.

If you are interested in getting involved in a project from either industry or student perspective or have a new idea for an Adopt a School project please contact Hills Schools Industry Partnership, info@hillssip.com.au or 9639 7999.

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