Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) programs are a set of short upskilling courses that are funded and supported by the Queensland Government. These training programs are perfect for people who are unemployed, under-employed, re-entering the workforce or disadvantaged job seekers.
BUSY At Work, also a part of The BUSY Group, offer a range of SQW courses in the South East Queensland region, including entry-level courses for Construction, Hospitality, Health Care and Community Services. Recently BUSY At Work delivered an eight week course which offered participants an entry pathway into Pathology.
There were twelve participants within this course who, along with two weeks classroom learning, undertook six weeks of work experience, gaining hands on experience in a real work environment which will help kick start their careers and secure employment within the Pathology industry.
BUSY At Work Project Coordinator and Mentor, Lori Coates, said the course was full of highlights and the participants were both eager and encouraging.
“The biggest highlight as their mentor was watching all the participants grow and develop new friendships and greater confidence, particularly Hamish,” said Lori.
Hamish, a client of BUSY Ability, was interested to find out more after Lori visited the BUSY Ability site to promote the Pathology course to job seekers. Hamish was keen to sign up after his own personal experiences with hospital blood tests.
“I was diagnosed with Scoliosis in 2008 and have had two back operations since then which prevented my ability to work,” said Hamish.
“This course helped with my anxiety and confidence and got me back into a work environment through work experience, which allowed me to learn new skills and gain hands on experience that will hopefully lead to a job as a Lab Assistant.”
Over the last eight weeks, Hamish, along with the other 11 participants, completed six units from the Certificate III in Pathology as part of his theory. Hamish then undertook work experience on site at QML Pathology in Ipswich where he assisted with write-ups, storage organisation, the intake and output of samples and other general duties.
“We received amazing feedback from the QML site where Hamish completed his work experience which was not surprising as he was an awesome participant with a positive attitude who always put his best foot forward,” said Lori.
As someone who has not been employed for over 6 years, Hamish encourages those who might be in the same position to consider enrolling in a similar course, “Ask questions and don’t be afraid to give it a go.”
“Hamish has worked so hard and I look forward to seeing him successfully placed in a role in the near future,” said Lori.
Paul Miles, Managing Director of The BUSY Group said, “The Skilling Queenslanders for Work courses prepare participants for work within their chosen industry and aligns them with opportunities to secure employment. We wish Hamish the best of luck as he continues along his pathway to a career in Pathology.”
For more information on BUSY At Work’s current Skilling Queenslanders for Work courses, visit https://www.busyatwork.com.au/services-we-offer/upskilling-courses/
MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Ryan, BUSY At Work
0407 169 029 or email michelle.ryan@busyatwork.com.au
The BUSY Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to the land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and their Elders past and present.
