Bundaberg State High School’s 280 Year 10 students are preparing to become the region’s future workforce by undertaking mock job interviews on Friday 18 August.
The school is looking for volunteers from the community who have experience in business to help put the students through their paces.
The mock interview program provides students a chance to rehearse and refine their interview skills before facing actual interviews.
Bundaberg State High School’s Head of Department Senior – VET Jo McGrath said Year 10 was an important juncture for many students at time when they were looking for their first job, applying for school based or full-time apprenticeships and traineeships.
“Students who currently have a job or have never worked can all gain something valuable from this event,” Jo said.
“Some words of wisdom or advice that could make that difference in the future could help a student beat their competitors and secure the job of their dreams.
“Sometimes students are nervous so being able to gently lead into the interview and support conversations is just as important.”
The mock interview program is a whole year level program with the school dedicating a full day to the event.
Students experience getting ready for an interview, rehearsing, dressing appropriately and transportation to arrive on time.
Bundaberg State High School has been running the program since 2018, and Jo said while finding enough volunteers to interview the full cohort was always a challenge, the benefits for the students made it worthwhile.
“The most rewarding aspects we have seen are the smiles and post interview chats the students have with us and their peers – rehashing their experiences, what the interviewer thought they did great and what areas the student could focus on next,” she said.
“There is nothing more meaningful than helping someone discover something about themselves.”
How to volunteer
Business owners, hiring managers, industry representatives and experienced retirees interested in participating can volunteer between 8.30am and 2.40pm on Friday 18 August.
Morning, lunchtime and afternoon shifts are available, and volunteers who have as little as an hour to give are encouraged and appreciated.
Where: Bundaberg State High School
Date: Friday 18 August
Time: 8.30 am – 2.35 pm (10-minute interviews)
Contact: Jo McGrath for more information: jmcgr99@eq.edu.au
