World is former Hutchins student’s oyster

THE Hutchins school provides Vocational Education and Training opportunities to students wishing to explore trade-based pathways.

Having had 600 students complete vocational qualifications across an increasing and diversified selection of industries including hospitality, engineering, fitness, maritime and tourism, these vocational programs continue to attract a greater number of students, and deliver outstanding outcomes.

Vocational Education and Training at The Hutchins School allows students to receive a tailored education to suit their own interests and motivations, enabling them to be the best they can be.

At the end of 2016, as a direct result of their vocational studies, 10 Hutchins students transitioned into apprenticeships.

The Vocational Education and Training programs delivered at Hutchins, are designed to expand opportunities and pathways for students and improve educational outcomes. With the tourism and hospitality industries growing in Tasmania and an increasing demand for skilled workers, these courses provide an opportunity for students to establish a successful career pathway.

Completing qualifications in Cookery and Hospitality during Year 12, former student Strider Carrick is an example of how Vocational Education provides tangible outcomes.

For Mr Carrick, it has been an opportunity to engage in a passion and follow a dream.

Mr Carrick’s results to date have been a reflection of his hard work and positive and effective attitude.

Given the opportunity to share his ideas, he is engaging, creative, able to work well with his peers, but also shows leadership.

Owners of The Beach Restaurant in Blackmans Bay, Andrew and Alison Gerstkamp, continue to praise Mr Carrick for his determination and natural ability.

“Being thrown into the kitchen as a kitchen hand over summer can either make or break a potential apprentice,” Mr Gerstkamp said.

“Strider has shown that he is a gem, a young man who is honest and reliable, and continues to be willing to learn and stay motivated, a young man we will continue to invest in,” he said.

Mr Carrick has always admired world-renowned chef Heston Blumenthal, for his innovation and creativity.

“I want to create art like that, I want to be able to share ideas and travel the world, and becoming a chef will allow me to pursue this passion,” Mr Carrick said.

The budding chef is an example of how Vocational Education and Training programs in schools can give young people an opportunity to find a successful career pathway.

Mr Carrick hopes to one day return to The Hutchins School and share his story.

He hopes to inspire other students to take the Vocational Education pathway, to try a course in Year 11 or 12 and see where it takes them. For him, he is living his dream.