The S2W Program is delivered by the 31 Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLENs) across the state and funded by the Victorian Department of Education (DE). The Central Ranges LLEN works with local employers, government, catholic and independent secondary schools to:

Work collaboratively with employers to source placements for students studying VET or VCE that could potentially lead to an apprenticeship or full -time employment

• Train teachers and prepare students on industry demands and employer expectations

• Make teachers and students aware of those elements that add value to employers and their business

• Update and maintain the SWL Statewide Portal by ensuring all advertised placements are current and taken up by students

• Identify local industry needs and priorities.

School to Work is on-the-job training during which a student studying VET or VCE expected to master a set of skills or competencies, such as job readiness skills including time management, being reliable, communicating effectively, willingness to learn, problem-solving as well as work related technical skills.

Students search and apply for placements through the S2W Statewide Portal. This is an online resource on which all LLENs across the State advertise quality placement opportunities sourced with local employers. It enables employers to define the tasks and duties students could experience in the workplace, along with the skills students may develop. The portal can be accessed through the School to Work portal link below.

Training and workshops provided by the S2W coordinators:

• Improve knowledge and understanding of changing work environments

• Enable VET and VCE staff to increase their confidence in the use of the S2W portal and in sourcing quality S2W placements for their students

• Improve the capacity of students to successfully approach employers and apply for placements.

Being involved in School to Work enables businesses to:

• Attract young people to their industry

• Help young people to become job ready and develop a realistic understanding of the expectations of employers

• Potentially recruit new pre-skilled employees at a potentially lower cost to the business

• Develop staff capability through coaching and mentoring young people

• Raise the profile of businesses in the community and add value to their business.

• Build resilience and self confidence in students, especially in the workplace

• Increase opportunities for networking with employers while on placement

• Facilitate a useful pathway to future employment and economic well-being.