Rockingham PCYC automotive students gain vocational training certificate

Local Rockingham students have successfully completed their Certificate I in Automotive Vocational training at the Police and Community Youth Centre.

The ceremony was held last Thursday with family and staff in attendance to congratulate the young graduates on their achievements.

The Rockingham PCYC Institute of Training has seen great success with its automotive course, helping young people gain the skills and confidence they need for further education, training, employment or transitioning back to a school environment.

Students of the course were asked to assist in the building of a drag car thanks to the Youth Affairs Council of Western Australia’s grant scheme.

Automotive trainer Brenden Cosgrove said that the program aims to provide hands-on learning, but also a “wraparound service” which looks at any barriers that could hinder students’ success while completing the course.

“The wraparound service looks at providing breakfast, lunches, pick up and drop off of students — it’s more than just the hands-on learning,” Mr Cosgrove said.

“We go through workshop safety procedures which is very important, how to use and maintain tools properly, engine building, servicing, brakes, changing tyres, wiring, car stereo installation, (the course) touches on a bit of everything.

“It gives them the skills to work in the industry, there’s a lot of different apprenticeships available now.”

The automotive course has a growing waitlist, with a number of new young people eager to participate in the program.

Rockingham PCYC is hoping to add a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Training later in the year.