Get Set for Work program empowering young people in CQ

A pioneering program in Central Queensland is revolutionising the way young people enter the workforce.

MRAEL Shaping Futures’ Get Set for Work (part of the IntoWork Group) is a free 10-week Skilling Queenslanders for Work program that provides nationally recognised training, integrated learning support, and core skills to young people aged 15-19, enabling them to transition successfully into employment or further education and training.

Lincoln Hardy, a 15-year-old from Gladstone, was struggling at school. He left in Year 10, lacking direction, feeling unmotivated and disengaged. However, everything changed when he joined the Get Set for Work program. The supportive environment and respectful staff at MRAEL helped Lincoln gain accredited certificates, hands-on skills, and confidence. He completed Cert II in Health Support Services and credits the program with improving his communication skills.

“I pretty much jumped at the chance when I saw this program could set me up for a job, so my mum and I had a chat with the school and everyone thought it was the best pathway for me,” Lincoln said.

Initially leaning towards a carpentry trade, Lincoln said he was happy the program gave him a safe space where he could feel welcome. “The MRAEL team treat you like an actual adult compared to school where you have to follow every single rule or get yelled at,” Lincoln said.

With the skills and confidence gained, Lincoln secured a full-time apprenticeship at M1 Cycles, working towards a Certificate III in Bicycle Workshop Operations through TAFE Queensland.

“It wasn’t something I really thought about doing, but after the course, I didn’t want to go back to school and the place I was part-time at the bike shop offered me a full-time job and going to TAFE, getting a Certificate III in Bicycle Mechanics, so I jumped on that offer as well, just because I didn’t really want to go back to school,” he said.

Lincoln’s mother, Kelly Manley, is overjoyed with the positive impact the program has had on her son. “Obviously, as a parent, you’re a little bit worried about things, but the program was amazing for him,” she said. “(The MRAEL team) April, Auntie Gina, and Clinton really helped him… they’ve helped him to build up his confidence – everything from his confidence to the way he carries himself has changed.” Kelly appreciated how the program provided Lincoln with various skills, including First Aid and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) training, which are applicable to any workplace.

April Ibbotson, Program Manager at MRAEL Shaping Futures, highlighted the program’s holistic approach, stating that it goes beyond providing the key work skills required for employment. “Our Get Set for Work program is more than just a training initiative; it’s a catalyst for transforming disengaged young people by providing them with the skills, confidence, and support needed to thrive in their chosen careers,”

Kelly also praised the program’s staff for treating the young people with respect and commitment to supporting them beyond the initial course. “I just liked the way they looked after the young people as well. They treated them with respect, and I appreciate everything that they’ve done for Lincoln because I’m not quite sure what would have happened otherwise.”

“I was also really pleased to know that the team don’t just give up on participants if they don’t get a job straight away. They help them with resume writing and how to approach employers, which is really valuable, especially for those who don’t have family connections to get a job,” Kelly added.

The Get Set for Work program has given Lincoln a new lease on life. By the time he would have finished high school, he’ll have completed a trade. He’s also been awarded a $5000 TAFE scholarship, further supporting his future goals. Kelly is proud of Lincoln’s progress: “I’m always proud of him, but I’m really proud that… he’s not just got a job, he’s got an apprenticeship… he’s working towards goals, and he’s happy.”

Kelly believes the program is beneficial for young people who don’t fit into the traditional school system, “I think for a lot of kids who don’t fit in there, there are other pathways to be successful. I think this is a good one.”

Lincoln is keen to pursue carpentry once he finishes his apprenticeship at M1 Cycles. “I just love to build stuff and be hands-on,” he said.

He highly recommends the program to other young adults who are not thriving in a school environment. “It helped me with my confidence in multiple different ways. When you first start there, you don’t know anyone, so you kind of just have to be open with yourself,” he said.

“I would say that they should join the program. April and the MRAEL crew will help you out with anything that you really want to achieve. I was pretty surprised this program was available – if you get the opportunity to go to the program, take it straight away.”