Building careers while finishing school
SEDA College NT’s Construction and Trade students are heading towards Year 12 with more than their final year of school to look forward to. For James, Yiannis and Tom, school-based apprenticeships are providing a head start in their chosen trades while they continue their education.
Their stories are part of a positive picture across the program with the majority of 2026 Year 11 Construction and Trade students continuing into Year 12. Students are building connections with employers while keeping their school education firmly in view.
From work placement to apprenticeship
For James, work placement became an opportunity to show his work ethic and genuine interest in the trade, helping him secure an apprenticeship with McMahon Services starting in 2027. Exploring different industries through the Construction and Trade program helped him discover where his skills could take him and make a more informed decision about his future.
Yiannis is getting a head start in plumbing with JN Mousellis Civil Contractors. His work placements helped confirm his career direction, giving him experience in the industry before taking the next step into a school-based apprenticeship.
His father, Peter, welcomes the opportunities the program has provided.
“I think it’s great he gets the opportunity to explore different workplaces and trades, so that he can make a calculated decision on what he wants to do in life. It also motivates him to be at school and complete Years 11 and 12, which I think is super important,” he says.
“The combination of core subjects relevant to his everyday work life is great. He has really enjoyed the school/work balance, and it reflects in his attitude and attendance at school and work. SEDA has done an exceptional job with this program, and I couldn’t recommend it more.”
Tom is turning his passion for cars into a career, completing a Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology while working towards finishing Year 12. His pathway brings together a trade qualification and his school education, allowing him to pursue his interest in the automotive industry without leaving school behind.
A pathway that keeps school in the picture
For these students, preparing for a trade career and completing Year 12 are not competing goals. Work placements have helped them explore their options, connect with employers and find a direction they want to pursue alongside their schooling.
“These students are showing that getting started in a trade doesn’t have to mean leaving school behind. They can see a connection between what they are learning and where they want to go. It’s encouraging to see them building their futures while continuing their education.”
— SEDA College NT Principal, Francis Gill
As James, Yiannis and Tom prepare for Year 12, their next steps are already taking shape. Their stories highlight the value of time in the workplace: a chance to explore an interest, discover a suitable trade and turn that experience into an opportunity for the future.
Learn more about the Construction and Trade Program.