By Deanne Jeffers
LOCAL grade five students were invited to Greater Shepparton Secondary College (GSSC) on Tuesday, December 6, for Aspiration Day – a hands-on learning experience giving kids a taste of the career and study paths ahead of them.
An initiative of the Shepparton Education Plan, the purpose of Aspiration Day was to get students thinking about what sort of career they might be interested in, and what subjects they can consider transitioning to high school.
Jenni Gibson, project manager for the Shepparton Education Plan, said the day was a huge success and an example of local partnerships at work.
“Representatives from La Trobe University, Melbourne University, GOTAFE, Foott Waste, Furphy Engineering and SPC worked with the grade fives in different workshops,” said Jenni, thanking them, volunteers and teachers for their support.
Over 600 students from 20 primary schools participated in the workshops, which included cupcake decorating, drone and hover craft demonstrations, and the opportunity to explore opportunities with local businesses and organisations like Foott Waste, River Connect, Furphy Engineering, and higher education and skills workshops with educational partners.
GSSC was selected as the venue for Aspiration Day due to its modern, high-tech facilities. Students will go on to various high schools in the district.
Catching up with a group from St George’s Road Primary School, students agreed that the day had been heaps of fun and showed them what high school would be like.
“Baking was my favourite activity,” said Shiane. “I am really excited to go to high school. I think we’ll be able to do lots of things there.”
After a highly successful and rewarding day, Aspiration Day is set to become an annual event for local grade five students in the district.
