STUDENTS from Aveley and Ellenbrook Secondary Colleges (ESC) have received medals at this year’s WorldSkills competition, while ESC was awarded the WA school shield for the second year in a row.

More than a dozen students from the two schools achieved medals in their chosen vocational training fields which included business, tourism and trades.

ESC Year 11 student Brooke won a gold medal for tourism studies and said she was completing her studies in tourism because of the rise of the global tourism sector and her desire to travel.

“Receiving a gold medal for the competition felt rewarding and exciting,” she said.

“I am feeling enthusiastic and eager to compete in the national competition in Brisbane next year, I’m mostly excited to meet new people and create new friends.”

ESC students Hope and Kashvi won silver and gold medals in business services, respectively.

Hope said she chose to pursue business because of the career flexibility it offered her.

“To receive a medal in my category felt surreal because it really boosted my confidence, made me see my potential and motivated me to keep striving to achieve more in the future,” she said.

Kashvi said receiving her medal felt like a recognition of all her hard work and preparation for the competition.

“I feel a great sense of pride and motivation, knowing that I have the chance to represent my skills at a higher level,” she said.

“What excites me the most about this event is the opportunity to challenge myself further, showcase my abilities on a national stage and learn from the best in the field.”

ESC won the school shield again this year, and the school’s VET coordinator Debbie Harris said it was testament to the school’s ongoing commitment to its VET students.

“The school shield recognises the school’s commitment to excellence in VET and highlights the effectiveness of the coordination, teachers and students involved in the program,” she said.

“It strengthens the college’s reputation as a school for everyone not only in the local community but broader and recognises that ESC is a leader in VET.”

Aveley Secondary College also had several students medal in multiple industry categories.

Aveley’s VET coordinator Cheri MacDonagh said VET studies were a great opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience and skills in their chosen industry.

“Students gain a nationally recognised qualification through industry relevant training which enables these students to be more competitive when applying for employment and further education and training opportunities,” she said.

“As every student learns differently, VET caters to students who learn in more practical manner providing a great stepping stone into their future careers as well as adding points towards achieving their WACE.”

83 VET students were selected for the training squad for WA, including 32 school students.

Students selected for the national team will compete at the WorldSkills national competition in Brisbane next year.