Students have date with a difference

Nya and Grace listen intently to one of the presenters of the Careers Speed Dating program. 97803 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

By BRIDGET COOK

STUDENTS at Lyndhurst Secondary College took part in speed dating of a different kind last month.
All Year-9 students took part in the school’s Careers Speed Dating program on Tuesday 23 April, where they moved around a number of stations to hear about a range of different careers.
A bank manager, civil engineer, electrician, builder, animator, musician, fashion stylist, event manager and a volunteer were just some of the careers represented by people who gave up their time to talk to the students.
The rotations at each station lasted about 20 minutes and gave students a chance to experience the business world first hand by asking questions about topics including training required, high and lowlights of the work, overtime and salary range expectations.
Lyndhurst Secondary College careers counsellor Trish Chandler said some students reported that this was the first time they were exposed to careers other than what their parents and family do.
“A lot of young people usually make decisions based on what they see on television like animal shows, cooking shows and science or law shows,” she said.
“The careers speed date gave them the opportunity to speak directly to someone who works in the industry.
“They learnt the skills they have, day to day activities, and the reasons for setting goals now.”