Trainees thrive after childhood challenges

Many young people are looking for that one employer who will recognise their unique qualities and strengths and give them that all-important break. None more so than young people who have experienced a challenging childhood and left school with minimal education.

In the case of five young people – Jamie, Kaylee, Brittnee, Josiah and Isaiah – placing them with an open-minded and willing employer like the owner of a group of resorts in the Kingscliff area saw exactly these circumstances coming together in the most positive way.

ETC Participants

Keen to get a foot in the door, all five were thrilled to be given the opportunity of a lifetime – the chance of a Holiday Parks and Resorts Traineeship organised through local training and employment company ETC.  The five are now in various stages of their training which covers administration and reception, room and general cleaning duties, gardening and general and pool maintenance, working across three luxury resorts overlooking the beach and river in the popular holiday destination.

The owner of the resorts has gone above and beyond, offering the young people a range of assistance including driving lessons, a confidential ear to help them deal with challenges and ensuring they always have food available for breakfast and lunch.  The employer has made these young feel valued and supported, with the added bonus that the young people now have a positive role model in their everyday lives.

The continuous mentoring and guidance has helped the trainees to gain confidence and feel secure in their new roles.

ETC Youth Advisor, Keshet Cohen, has taken great pleasure in watching the young people grow and develop over the past 12 months.  “A supportive employer can make a huge difference in the life of a young person,” said Keshet.  “Someone was willing to give them a break and they have responded with loyalty and by taking great pride in their work.”

Keshet has this advice for young people in a similar situation.

“No matter what your circumstances, we will work with you to identify your unique strengths to help you find a fulfilling career. This is a good news story about five young people and it could be you”.

“Make an appointment today to see an advisor at ETC.  You could be one of many young people who land that opportunity of a lifetime.”

Contact ETC on Free Call 1800 007 400 or check out our Transition to Work program for youth aged 15-21 or our Earn While You Learn on-the-job training for all ages.