12 Aug 2020
QHS year 12 student, Brodie Nankivell was thrilled to be a recent finalist in the 2020 NSW Training Awards for the New England Region.
Brodie, was supported in his nomination for the state award in the School Based Trainee of the Year, by his employer Soil Conservation Services (SCS) Quirindi.
“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the presentation was held online, and while I didn’t take out the top prize, I was pretty thrilled to be a finalist,” he commented.
In 2018, Brodie completed two weeks of Year 10 work experience with the Soil Conservation Services, Quirindi.
Coming from a farming background, he was keen to be outdoors and work on the land, and in 2019 received a Cert II in Civil Construction Plant Operation traineeship with SSC.
In addition to the Cert II Traineeship through TAFE, the Soil Conservation Service have put Brodie through Bush Fire Awareness training (very handy this fire season) and Remote First Aid training.
In the role, Brodie has learnt the basic skills and standards of soil conservation earthworks, including surveying, work layout, construction of contour banks and dams, repairs to dams and other rehabilitation work.
“He’s proven to be a valuable asset in our team, is competent with operating machines and plant and is willing to try new things and share his ideas as an innovative self-motivator, said SCS, Senior Environmental Officer, Brett Thompson.
As time has progressed in his role, Brodie has undertaken training on other plant and machinery including dump trucks, excavators, loaders and skid steers, and also in new situations, even spending some time on the north coast assisting with the construction of fire trails.
Brodie has worked on site at Walcha – during the bushfires, the Pilliga – for dam reconstruction, Iluka – on fire trails, and Dubbo - on restoration earthworks.
“The Traineeship takes a bit of getting used to compared to learning full time at school, as I move between, the school, work and TAFE for my learning. But, I knew it was the career path I wanted and I have been dedicated to achieving it,” said Brodie, who will complete his Traineeship at the end of 2020 with the aim of applying for full time employment with the local SCS.
Brodie, continues to undertake study at QHS , while completing his Traineeship and is currently undertaking this Trial HSC exams.
“I’ve felt supported by the team at QHS, the whole way through my schooling from year 7 to 12, which is great and would like to say thanks to QHS community and Teachers, including Careers Advisor, Ms Saunders for all the support I’ve had, thanks also to my peers for their encouragement, I wish you all the best with your HSC.”
Brodie, said his parents, partner and his work have also really supported him and he’s looking forward to the future.
“Students at QHS have the opportunity to obtain a personalised career path, by speaking to teachers and Ms Saunders, the Careers Advisor. There are lots of different options available, from University, to Apprenticeships, Traineeships and more and the school is well equipped to set you on the right path.”
School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships are a great way for students to establish themselves in the career they want whilst completing the HSC.
They combine paid work, training and school; and as well as an industry recognised national qualification students can gain credit towards the HSC. Some apprenticeships and traineeships can also contribute towards the ATAR.
Congratulations Brodie and your extended support crew for all you have achieved, we wish you all the best.