Bishop Druitt College is proud to host an upcoming Industry School Forum, a dynamic initiative aimed at strengthening connections between local industry and key school contacts. This event, a collaboration between Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) and Industry Training Advisory Bodies (ITABs), provides a unique platform for fostering relationships that will benefit both students and businesses in the region.

Taking place on Thursday 29 May 9am - 2:30pm in the Branson Centre at Bishop Druitt College, the Industry School Forum will feature a series of insightful sessions designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. Representatives from Regional Development Australia, local employers, educational institutions, and training services will come together to discuss key issues and opportunities within the workforce landscape.

Event Highlights:

• Region Overview – Insights from Regional Development Australia on local workforce trends and opportunities.
• Employer Panel – A discussion with local employers on industry developments and workforce needs.
• School Panel – Perspectives from schools on the evolving educational landscape.
• Work Placement Session – Exploring the benefits of student work placements for businesses, led by Connect Northern Rivers.
• SBAT (School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships) Session – A Q&A with students and employers.
• ITAB Session – Insights into emerging industries and future workforce needs.
• SBAT Management Session – A schools-only discussion on best practices for managing school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.

The event is being supported by Training Services NSW, which will contribute to discussions and provide expert guidance on training opportunities for students and businesses alike.

“This forum is an invaluable opportunity for educators and industry leaders to collaborate and ensure students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need for the workforce of tomorrow,” said Janine Ryan the Bishop Druitt College Career Pathways Advisor. “By strengthening these connections, we can create meaningful pathways for students and address industry needs effectively and create a positive experience for both the student and employer.”

Charlie Knight in Year 12 is a Bishop Druitt College student with the Elsa Dixon Aboriginal School Based Traineeship Program through the Mid North Coast Local Health District. Charlie will be presenting to the guests of the Forum which include local business and industry professionals, local school Principals and education bodies such as TAFE, Universities etc.

Charlie said “I am really looking forward to sharing my experience about being an SBAT student and what it means to me in terms of graduation and outcomes such as job opportunities.”

Charlie hopes to have a career in health care and the SBAT pathway will give her a head start and will allow her to be qualified as an Assistant in Nursing by the end of Year 12.

Bishop Druitt College Principal Simon Doyle said, "Bringing students into the conversation through sessions like the School Based Apprenticeship & Traineeship (SBAT) Q and A sessions makes a huge difference. Students get to see where their studies can lead—and employers get to hear from the next generation of employee's. This is a great opportunity for collaboration in regional schools".

Local businesses, educators, and industry stakeholders are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to network, share insights, and contribute to shaping the future workforce.

Pictured above from left: Simon Doyle, Charlie Knight, Janine Ryan.