The LYNKS Program - What is it?

The LYNKS Program is an innovative workplace-based-learning program for Year 10 at-risk students at the four local high schools who may be disengaged with their schooling and wishing to consider other options such as entering the workforce to acquire a trade or working in such areas as retail, hospitality or business administration.

Participating students receive on-the-job training one day a week over a twenty-week period due to the support of a large number of local businesses that are eager to participate.

Before commencing in the workplace students go through an interviewing process and are guided through vigorous training days, which include employer forums, preparing the students in the areas of customer service, resume preparation, personal presentation, and interview and telephone skills. The program came about because a large number of at-risk students in Year 10 at the four local high schools were dropping out of school without completing their High School Education.  Past evidence indicated that these at-risk students have difficulty coping with the conventional school system. These students had no other training, no experience, motivation, self esteem, or self confidence and no direction. All schools reported the absentee rate of these students was much higher than average.

Two other important factors  which prompted the need for a program like The LYNKS Program was that two of the high schools involved are boarding schools and cater for rural students from right around the state; this means students are also disadvantaged by distance, isolation and equity to access employment preparation and career pathways. Another school has 25% of its enrolment comprising Aboriginal students, as well as a significant proportion of students with an identified disability including moderate and mild intellectual, autism and mental health (5%+).

In1997 the schools and industry formed a management committee and The LYNKS Program became a vital part of the school to work process.

Following are extracts from letters from a school principal back in 1998 and a parent in 1999, which both reinforced the need for the program.

“The LYNKS Program has contributed greatly to the vocational skills of students and helped them lift their self-esteem. Students involved report an increased sense of direction and purpose in their study and work goals and will be returning to Year 11 next year to pursue further vocational education.

Likewise, staff have reported a distinct change in the attitude of students involved with a renewed vigour and sense of purpose.

Parents comments have been very favorable with many requests for an increased number of places in the program.

“Taking these young people away from the school environment for their training days has been an excellent idea. Even before they started their workplacements they had gained so much. It’s gratifying to see members of the community working with these young adults.

The program has motivated, built confidence and encouraged them to take ownership of their destiny as they work towards attaining their career choices. Congratulations!”