Boat building sets young lives on course

Damian McGill reported on the “Scruffie” sailboat project,funded through HYPAR and was delivered by TAFE Outreach in partnership with Shoalhaven PCYC, in the South Coast Register, (December 13, 2006, p7). According McGill, Aaron said

"I have more confidence. Without TAFE I don't think I would have had this opportunity".

Another participant Nathan said:

"Helping to build the boat has shown me that I can accomplish anything"

McGill continues on:

The success of the sailboat-building program shows how important TAFE is to an area like the Shoalhaven

He expresses some concern that "The squeeze on resources has eroded TAFE's commitment to access, equity and social justice..."

The “Scruffie” Story from Nowra/Shoalhaven

The “Scruffie” sailboat was built by young people who had been disengaged from education and who were recruited to the program through partners including the local schools, Shoalhaven Tutorial Centre, Shoalhaven Youth Accommodation, Caresouth, Job Networks, Essential Personnel, Crossroads Youth Health, Juvenile Justice and the YWCA. The program was funded through HYPAR and was delivered by TAFE Outreach in partnership with Shoalhaven PCYC, and with the support of the TAFE Building & Construction section.
The program built on innovative practice developed in past HYPAR programs. It was project driven and the program was adjusted to incorporate the interests of the young people. A WorkCover course was also added to the program to ensure the safety of students on the worksite. This OH & S Induction course is a valuable qualification for students who seek work in the building or construction industry.
Of the eighteen students who participated in the course over two semesters, four went on to pre -apprenticeship courses, five gained part time employment, four went on to other TAFE study and two returned to school.
The “launch” is to congratulate all involved in the program and to formally hand over the completed boat to the PCYC for the use of young people in the Shoalhaven.