This week, 14 Chisholm students attended the Construction Training Fund (CTF) Try-A-Trade programme at North Metro TAFE’s Balga campus.
Over three days, students tried bricklaying, plastering and stonemasonry. The hands-on activities gave them a chance to learn new skills and explore pathways in the construction industry.
But what was it like to take part? Here’s what two of our students had to say about their experience:
Our Try-A-Trade Experience at Balga TAFE
Last week, we had the amazing opportunity to take part in the Try-A-Trade programme at Balga TAFE. It was such a great experience and gave us an insight into what it is really like to work in a trade. Over the three days, we got to try different trades, learn new skills and see all the different opportunities that can come with working in the trades.
Day 1 – Bricklaying
On our first day, we tried bricklaying, which was something completely new for both of us. We learnt how to make a brick wall and were able to actually have a go ourselves. We learnt how to prepare the mortar, cut and spread the mortar correctly, and place the bricks properly.
We also learnt how to prepare a brick and how to use different tools to make sure our wall was straight and even. We learnt about plumb, range and level, which helped us understand how to make sure the bricks were positioned correctly. It was really fun seeing the wall come together and knowing that we had built it ourselves.
Day 2 – Plastering and Wall & Ceiling Lining
On the second day, we learnt about plastering and wall, and ceiling lining. We learnt how to put plaster into moulds and create different textures and patterns. It was interesting to see how something as simple as plaster could be used to create different designs.
We also learnt how to attach moulds onto drywall and how different techniques can be used to create different finishes. This gave us an insight into how much skill and creativity can be involved in these types of trades.
Day 3 – Stonemasonry
On our third and final day, we tried stonemasonry. We learnt about working with stone and had the opportunity to try sparrow pecking and chiselling on marble. It was definitely something different from the other two days and showed us another type of trade that we had not really experienced before.
It was great being able to work with the tools and materials ourselves instead of just learning about them. We got to see how much patience, accuracy and skill is needed when working with stone.
Our Overall Experience
Overall, the Try-A-Trade programme was an amazing experience for us both. It gave us a much better insight into the real world and what it could actually look like to work in a trade. Before the programme, we didn’t really know what was involved in these different careers, but getting to try them ourselves helped us understand how much work, skill and creativity goes into them.
The programme also showed us that there are many different opportunities and career pathways available in the trades. We were able to try three completely different areas and learn skills that we wouldn’t normally get to experience at school.
We are both really grateful that we got the opportunity to take part in the Try-A-Trade programme at Balga TAFE. It was a fun, hands-on and memorable experience, and we would definitely recommend giving something like this a try because you never know what new skills or career interests you might discover!
Addison & Elise
Well done to all 14 students for making the most of the opportunity!
Mrs Simone Firns
Workplace Learning Coordinator
