Career begins at school for future plumber Ethan

Ethan Valente is another step closer to his career in plumbing after graduating from Saint Ignatius’ College with the Class of 2023.

Ethan began his career journey in Year 11 when he completed the VET course, Construction Pathways at TAFE, alongside his SACE studies.

“The VET study was very hands on which I quite liked as I liked working with my hands as well as being outside. At school I never got the opportunity to do that,” said Ethan.

“I enjoyed doing hands on activity and learning new aspects of different trades as well as making new connections with people.”

The course which Ethan completed whilst in Year 11 required over 30 hours of work experience. Ethan completed a week of electrical work with his cousin as well as a week with a plumber.

“I enjoyed plumbing a lot more as I found the work more enjoyable and hands on as well as suiting my plans of starting my own business in future,” said Ethan.

To complement the theme of his VET studies Ethan completed a Stage 2 SACE subject this year called Workplace Practices. He completed 60 hours of work placements in plumbing and investigated aspects of the construction industry. This included Work Health Safety, the changing nature of the construction industry and finding employment - where he created a resume, cover letter and sat a mock interview - all geared towards finding an apprenticeship in plumbing.

According to Vocational Services Coordinator, Lisa McDonald, interest in VET is growing at the College.

“This year we have 78 students doing Screen and Media on-campus and nine doing external VET. In 2024 we will also offer a Certificate III in Hospitality here at the College with 12 students currently enrolled,” said Lisa.

“We usually encourage VET in Year 11. However, more students are choosing to also do some in Year 12. Many of our students complete a Certificate III, which can go towards their ATAR.”

By completing a VET course, students gain valuable transferable skills in an industry context. Lisa believes this can accelerate or expand opportunities post school.

“VET allows students to follow a pathway that they are interested in as a career or to get a taste of an industry. For example, we have two students in Year 11 doing their Certificate II in Electrotechnology, one of whom will commence his apprenticeship whilst in Year 12,” said Lisa.

Lisa also notes how including VET as part of SACE completion can allow students extra flexibility in Year 12 to follow other interests.

“In addition to vocational pathways, it can allow students to have a greater degree of flexibility in how they complete SACE and gives them a nice ‘buffer zone” to follow their passions,” said Lisa.

“My son Noah did his VET Certificate III in Year 11 (equivalent to a Stage 2 subject) which allowed him to have a reduced load in Year 12 this year. This enabled him to play u18 SANFL footy.

“It really fits in with the SACE policy of allowing students to ‘thrive’, which is super important in these days where youth wellbeing is an area of priority.”