Trade up! Local employers invited to shape tomorrow’s workforce

Melanie Bradley and John Lewis are ready to help students get into the workforce. Photo TWH

Lightning Ridge, Brewarrina, Walgett, Goodooga, Collarenebri, and Bourke – local education officers are calling on businesses across the region to step up and support the School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT) program – a hands-on pathway that allows students to start a trade or traineeship while completing their HSC.

Melanie Bradley, SBAT Engagement Officer for Skills and Workforce, leads the initiative from Lightning Ridge, covering Walgett, Goodooga, Collarenebri, and Mungindi.

“My role as SBAT Engagement Officer is pivotal in bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring that the SBAT program thrives and provides meaningful experiences for students, support for schools, and valuable partnerships with employers and local businesses,” she said.

John Lewis, based in Coonamble in the same role, supports students in Brewarrina, Bourke, Nyngan, and Gilgandra. Together, Ms Bradley and Mr Lewis are actively encouraging local businesses to provide students with opportunities to gain real-world skills and build meaningful careers.

Ms Bradley said the program currently has a strong cohort of students, with more joining each year. […]

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