How is the P Plate Program different to other programs already in schools?
The program will provide job opportunities to Indigenous students that are involved in job training. We want students to explore the work options available to them and complete training relevant to that work. When a job becomes available they will then be in a position to apply for that job.
How do I register for the Jobs Boards?
This program is available only to Indigenous students but to be involved they must sign an agreement to participate in various school activities and follow the school’s policies on attendance and behaviour. It is not compulsory to join this program.
What is the AEC?
The AEC is a non profit organisation whose primary goal is to break the welfare cycle that Indigenous Australians find themselves in, by offering them the realistic opportunity to participate in the workforce.
How do I get a job?
The Ambassador of this program at your school will monitor the AEC website (www.fiftythousandjobs.com.au) to see if there is a job that is suitable for you based on the training you have completed or the potential you have demonstrated at school. If there is a suitable position the Ambassador will assist you to apply for that position. The ambassador will also work with you to provide linkages or show you how to seek employment opportunities for Indigenous School Leavers.
Is it possible to get an AEC committed job if I am not a part of the P-Plate program?
Only students who have signed the agreement to be a part of the program can apply for a job. This way the Ambassador knows what you have done at school and whether you are suited to the role.
When do I need to join the program?
We would like students to join at the beginning of Year 8 so that they can start investigating the work options available to them as soon as possible; however it will be possible for students to join at any time in high school. Remember though that you need to complete the Employment Suitability Checklist before you will be eligible to apply for a job.
Do I have to finish Year 12 before I can get a job?
Research shows that students who complete Year 12 have a greater chance of succeeding in the workforce, so our emphasis is on completing Year 12. If, however a position becomes available that would suit a student before they complete Year 12 then it may be possible for a student to apply for that position.
Who will be the P-Plate Ambassador at the school?
The Ambassador can be anyone who has a genuine desire to help Indigenous students achieve the objective of becoming job ready, so that upon leaving school they have the opportunity to successfully participate in the workforce. The Ambassador may already be a member of the Student Services team at the school (AIEO, Year Ambassador, Deputy Principal, VET Ambassador, Career Education Officer, School Chaplain, etc) or it may be any other staff member who possesses the desire mentioned above.
What type of job training will I need to do?
After investigating the career options that are suitable for your interests and abilities you will be expected to participate in a program aligned to those interests and abilities. This should occur through Work Experience in Year 10 and either Workplace Learning, a School Based Traineeship or a School Based Apprenticeship in Years 11 and 12 or part time work. You may also be required, as part of the program you choose, to attend a Registered Training Organisation to compliment the work experience you are gaining.
If I join this program do I still have to go to school?
If you do join the P-Plate program then you will need to sign an agreement that you will follow the attendance and behaviour policies that apply to your school as well as meeting a number of other commitments related to the program.
How much does it cost to be involved in the P-Plate program?
For the students involved there is no cost, and for schools the cost relates to providing a person at the school who will be the Ambassador of the program. This cost hopefully can be absorbed by the distribution of part of the FTE allocated to the Student Services department at the school.
I want to go university. How will this program help me?
The P-Plate program is also designed to help students who want to go on to further study after they leave school. If you are doing an academic course then you may not be in a position to go to out of school job training, but having a clear career direction will be just as important for you when it comes to choosing your subject pathway in Years 11 and 12.
What happens if I don’t abide by the agreement I signed when I joined the program?
The P Plate program wants you to succeed but that will only happen if you make and keep to the agreed commitments. Your school Ambassador will monitor your progress and will be aware if you are falling behind in your work or are not attending school or misbehaving whilst at school. You will be counselled and reminded of your commitment to the program.