BOORT District School student James Hercott is proving that you can finish school and start your career at the same time.
James, who works at Pyramid Hill Tyre and Auto while completing his VCE, is one of 16 students in the Loddon Shire taking part in the Head Start program, delivered locally by the North Central LLEN.
The program gives Year 10–12 students the chance to begin a paid apprenticeship or traineeship while still at school. It’s flexible too, with students starting off with one day a week in the workplace and gradually building up as they move through their studies. Along the way, they gain skills, confidence and a qualification while still earning a fair wage.
James has been actively involved in North Central LLEN programs over the past three years, including work experience at Swan Hill Truck Service, Structured Workplace Learning placements at Mawsons Cohuna and Pyramid Hill Tyre and Auto, and the Youth Take Over program with Nutrien Ag.
North Central LLEN Head Start co-ordinator Mary-Ann Sait said it’s been inspiring to see students like James embrace the opportunities on offer.
“Meeting the students at the start of their school-based apprenticeship or traineeship and then seeing their growth over the next couple of years is really rewarding,” she said. 
“Of course, this would not be possible without the fantastic support of local employers, who share their time and knowledge to guide students as they learn their craft.”
Head Start operates across Victoria and connects students with career planning, training providers, and supportive employers to help them transition successfully from school to work.