Sydney Catholic Schools is investing in its classrooms of today to grow the teachers of tomorrow, with the School-Based Education Support (SBES) Traineeship placing senior students in real school settings while they complete their HSC.

This program allows students to learn while they earn, gaining hands-on experience supporting students in real classrooms and achieving a Certificate III in School-Based Education Support in the process.

Since its launch two years ago, 13 Year 11 and 12 students are now participating in the Grow Your Own program, working across 12 primary schools in the Sydney Catholic Schools network. 

At the heart of the program is the vision of nurturing current students who may one day join the Sydney Catholic Schools community as Educators and Learning Support Officers. 

Graduates from the pilot program have already moved into active, casual employment within Sydney Catholic Schools while continuing their tertiary studies, and participation is set to grow further with future intakes.

The traineeship not only develops practical skills but also nurtures confidence, teamwork, and a passion for education. It is a unique opportunity for students to make a meaningful contribution to their school community while exploring future career pathways, perfectly showcasing the value of skills development during National Skills Week.

Lillie, a current trainee at St Andrew’s Catholic Primary School Malabar, said the traineeship had helped her grow in confidence, as well as develop greater respect for her own teachers and their work.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn new things and try something new. I have found it rewarding and have learned new communication and resilience skills. It’s given me a different perspective on how education can impact young lives,” Lillie said. 

Principals across Sydney Catholic Schools have also …