Perth school Santa Maria College has become the first all-girls school to participate in Construction Fund Training Try-A-Trade program. The fully funded CTF program is available to years 9 and 10 and offers a glimpse into the construction industry in Western Australia.
The answer to the recent skills shortage here in WA could lie with the growing number of females in the construction industry. Women make up over 50% of the population yet historically only make a small percentage of the workforce in the core trades – this is set to change.
In the past three years Female electrical apprenticeships have risen 45.28%, Female building and construction apprenticeships have risen 45.61%, Female building and construction traineeships have risen 97.67%.
“We don’t have many options for this practical work at school so it’s really fun, and I think a lot of girls would enjoy it” said Jessica Yeo of Santa Maria College.
Programs like Try-A-Trade allow students hands on experience in a real trade training environment. They will try their hands at a trades such as bricklaying, stone masonry, ceramic tiling, solid plastering, wall and ceiling lining, painting and decorating and carpentry.
The benefit is more knowledgeable students, who now have the experience which may influence their decision to start a career in construction.
Rob Berryman of CTF can see a bright future for female trades:
“It’s a great opportunity for students to have a taste then they might go on to do a Cert II in construction”.
CTF’s Industry Training Advisors are always on hand to help answer any questions the students have and outline the next steps for education and career.
For more information, please email ita@ctf.wa.gov.au or phone 08 9244 0100.
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