School-based Apprenticeship Fashions a Career
Why wait for the career you want to find you when you can get a head start now? Melinda Stephens learnt exactly this when she pursued her passion for fashion by undertaking a School-based Apprenticeship with a fashion designer.
Starting a School-based Apprenticeship in Year 10 gave Melinda the chance to combine her career aspirations with her school studies. In addition to this hand-on exposure to the clothing production industry, Melinda also completed a Certificate III in Clothing Production. When Melinda graduates from VCE, she will already have the qualifications and skills she needs to secure higher level training and career opportunities in the fashion industry.
"My apprenticeship has changed me because I am now more focused, committed and devoted to making my dream happen. I know exactly the industry that I want to work in. It has saved me so much time and money, showing me the pathway I want to take now so that when I finish VCE I know exactly what I want to do," she says.
Awarded the 2008 Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year, one of the highlights of Melinda’s studies was the opportunity to produce a successful fashion show fundraiser which taught her a great deal about the industry.
"The whole experience has been wonderful and it has opened a lot of doors for me. It is a great way to learn new skills, get ahead in life and find your passion."