Teens graduate from PCYCs fit for work program

The program is an initiative of the RISEUP strategy that was launched by the NSW Police Commissioner in 2018, connecting disengaged young people to workplace opportunities by mentoring and providing vocational training for at risk youth aged between 15 and 18.

Senior Constable Jodie Millar said that the group of young people graduating had been 'amazing'.

"They have all put in a lot of effort and we have noticed a great change in these young people, particularly with their confidence and self esteem which is really nice to see," Senior Constable Millar said.

"All our graduates really care about each other and work together well as a group which I am very proud of."

Students involved with the program are nominated by their high schools, having expressed a desire to leave school and pursue full time work options.

As part of Fit for Work, the graduates had the opportunity to receive their first aid certificate, complete their white card training and undergo mock interviews, with ongoing support to create current resumes ready to be put forward for job applications.

Nicholas Sayers said the whole experience was positive.

"I had a really good experience, I developed better communication skills and am now looking forward to an apprenticeship with Collier and Miller," Mr Sayers said.

Fellow graduate Daniel Dabanni echoed this sentiment.

"Getting out of school and into work really got me invested into this program and I am excited to look for full time work and help people, similar to the role PCYC has played for me here," Mr Dabanni said.

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Both Emma Hamson and Stevie Skof both said that the program help them prepare for the next step in starting careers in their chosen industries of choice.

"Fit for Work really helped me be ready for that next step," Miss Hamson said.

"The program put me on the right path and made what I wanted to do really clear," Miss Skof said.

Trainer Ben Vicarys-Coles helped run the program as a hybrid model, streaming live from Wollongong.

"It is good to have something positive for these teens," Mr Vicarys-Coles said.

"Having a goal to shoot for and seeing yourself move towards that goal is really good for positive emotions."

Sargeant Jason Pietroboni said that the results had been 'fantastic' and spoke for themselves.

"We will continue to work behind the scenes with our new graduates and assist and guide them," Sargeant Pietroboni said.

"When we can deliver programs like this with good results and outcomes it helps us deliver more programs through increased funding down the track."

There is so word yet on whether or not the program will be run in 2022 but organisers are hopeful.

Congratulations to all teens who graduated!

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