The highly successful Passions and Pathways careers program faces an uncertain future despite winning a major award this week.
State Government funding for the program runs out in April next year.
The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad congratulated the P&P team on winning the 2024 Career Development Association of Australia (CDAA) award for Excellence in Practice on Monday October 21.
“This award recognises outstanding achievements in the career development profession, validating the proven outcomes of the P&P program over the last 13 years,” Ms Broad said.
The P&P program is run by the Goldfields Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN) based in central Victoria.
Ms Broad said the program connected primary school students to local industries so they could develop an understanding of career opportunities and possibilities; and build self-knowledge and confidence.
“Students participate in workplace tours, entrepreneurial projects and weekly lessons, culminating each year with a showcase of student projects at a career expo,” Ms Broad said.
“In 2024 Passions & Pathways connected 468 students from 10 schools with more than 60 local businesses participating in the program. This provides a vital link for students to career pathways at a pivotal developmental age, empowering them to see possibilities and opportunities beyond their current circumstances.
“This is the only evidence-based primary school careers learning program in Victoria.
“It is a key resource to break generational cycles of disempowerment and inequality.”
Ms Broad raised the matter in Parliament, urging the Minister for Education to explain how the government will continue to support the program.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au