Page 37 - CCLLEN Annual Report

‘Real Futures’ Program

Beacon Careers Expo
The Careers Expo held in May at Rich River Golf Club, was bigger and better this year. Over 400 students
participated in four workshops chosen from 62 on offer covering a wide range of careers.
The morning began with a panel of young people from four different career areas, who gave the students
realistic advice on career pathways and passed on powerful messages about the importance of doing
work experience.
We received positive feedback on the event from the 90 presenters and from the students. Thanks to
the wonderful workshop presenters and to Rich River Golf Club for their sponsorship and providing the
perfect venue.

Mock Interviews
Over 400 interviews were conducted by 49 interviewers from local businesses and organisations over six
days at the five schools. The interviewers from local businesses and organisations gave the students a
real-life job interview and provided valuable feedback. The Beacon Leaders and their Co-ordinators ran
the days efficiently.
Interview Technique Sessions presented by CCLLEN’s Coordinator Jacq Campbell helped the students
prepare for their interviews and to write application letters and resumes. These sessions are incorporated
into the schools’ careers programs.

Pathways Pledge Ceremony
The Pathways Pledge ceremony was re-branded in 2019 (formerly Charter Signing) and the timing of the
ceremony changed to later in the year. This aligns with the concept that the students have already actively
participated in the Real Futures program and then sign the boards to pledge their commitment to their
studies, and to further education, training or employment when they leave school.
The ceremony held at St Joseph’s College, was attended by over 420 students and teachers from the five
Beacon schools and 47 guests from the community. Andrew Walker, born and bred in Echuca/Moama,
delivered an inspiring presentation about the highs and lows of his AFL career and passed on valuable
advice on making decisions and dealing with challenges.

Representatives from the careers teachers and the business community pledged their support for the
young people. St Joseph’s College provided the music and the Beacon Leaders hosted the event with
confidence and precision.

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