Through the Flexible Learning Options (FLO) Government program, the Motor Trade Association (MTA) is providing career pathways that are helping young people in South Australia re-engage with their learning.
MTA Trainers have been working with students who do not attend school in a traditional sense. Instead, they participate in short courses and can then go on to Certificate I or II programs.
In 2020, the MTA assisted in the training of 29 FLO students. “The MTA run several training groups each year at various locations across South Australia for FLO students,” said MTA Regional Operations Manager, Warren Meissner.
“After completing a short automotive course, FLO students then have the confidence and skills required for completing a Certificate I in Automotive Vocational Preparation (AUR10116) qualification and then leading onto a Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology (AUR20516) or employment and apprenticeship opportunities. These opportunities include Heavy and Light Vehicles, Trailer Mechanics, Collision Repair, to name just a few.”
Short automotive course programs run one day a week over five weeks, while Certificate I in Automotive Vocational Preparation runs for 14 to 15 days over a six-month period, providing greater exposure to the skills required by the industry.
“Part of the structural workplace learning involved in the Certificate I gives a chance for the student to experience a real automotive workshop as well,” added Meissner.
“Through practical hands-on learning and evidence captured, the student also gains the opportunity to develop better literacy, numeracy and technical knowledge that will help them in an automotive career.”
According to Meissner, there are currently many job opportunities available in South Australia. The MTA uses its membership network to assist in finding placements for those either in a short course or completing a Certificate qualification.
“MTA members, like Mack Trans Australia, have provided their workshop to enable these young people to participate in work placement under the guidance of their staff and trainers with considerable industry experience.”
The MTA has also been providing training for FLO students at the National Military Museum and St Patricks Technical College in the northern suburbs of Adelaide – and the results have been great.
“Parents and case mangers see the difference in these young people with confidence growing as they work through the program and we hope to continue working with FLO students in the future,” said Meissner.