Queensland training students earn national praise
18 August 2009
Lock and load ... former Aldridge State High student Ben Wheeler recently received a 2008 Prime Minister's Award for Skills Excellence in School.
Two former Queensland state school students have earned national praise for their achievements in vocational education and training while at school.
Ben Wheeler, a Year 12 student at Aldridge State High School last year, and Sara Jane Janke, in Year 12 at Chinchilla State High School last year, were recently presented with a 2008 Prime Minister's Award for Skills Excellence in School.
Ben was named the Highest Achieving Student in the Manufacturing Industry. Last year the former Maryborough student completed his Certificate III in Engineering (Trade) as a school-based apprentice.
Ben is now undertaking a Certificate III in Locksmithing Engineering with the goal to run his own locksmithing business.
Sara was named the Highest Achieving Student in the Community Services and Health Industry. The former Darling Downs student achieved a Certificate III in Children's Services, a Certificate II in Business and outstanding results in her other school subjects.
Sara is now planning to study for an Advanced Diploma of Children's Services with her ultimate ambition to become a childcare centre director.
The Prime Minister's Award for Skills Excellence in School was introduced in 2005 to recognise Year 12 students who have demonstrated exceptional achievement while participating in vocational education and training as part of their senior secondary certificate.
Other Queensland winners were Daniel Bunker from John Paul College (Highest Achieving Student in Queensland), and Heidi Henderson from Sheldon College (Highest Achieving Student in the Innovation and Business Industry).
For more information, visit the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations website
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