Hedland Senior High School’s traineeship program has received national recognition after being named as a finalist in the Federal Government-backed Australian Training Awards.

The school received the bronze award in the School Pathways to VET category for its School Based Traineeship Program.

It is the largest school-based traineeship program offered to students in WA government schools and involves one school day a week of paid work experience, complemented with on and off the job training at registered training organisations.

It has grown from offering one qualification in its first year of operation in 2017 to now offering 12 qualifications to students in years 11 and 12 in areas such as maritime operations, rail infrastructure, early childhood studies, kitchen operations, sports and recreations, and allied health.

The program has been developed in collaboration with local employers, including Port Hedland Industries Council members, and covers a wide range of industries.

PHIC Chief Executive Officer Kirsty Danby congratulated the school on its achievement.

“It’s the success you’d expect from a school with the motto, Together we Achieve,” Kirsty said.

“It is a real community effort being led by school for the benefit of students.”