Top apprentices excelling in their trades
Schools
St Patrick’s Technical College has recognised two apprentices with its top awards as the most outstanding students from the graduating class of 2023.
As Apprentice of the Year, Plumbing student Zack Maguire is the recipient of prestigious Max Davids Award, named in recognition of the significant contribution made by Max Davids in the founding and development of the college.
The award acknowledges a student’s demonstrated skills excellence and outstanding employability skills through the attainment of a school-based apprenticeship in conjunction with the successful completion of SACE.
Employed as a school-based apprentice while undertaking his final year of secondary education, Zack’s commitment to his apprenticeship, trade training and schooling demonstrated his strong work ethic vital for success in his trade profession.
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Zack was also acknowledged by his employer for his trade dedication, winning the Trainee and Apprentice Placement Service (TAPS) 2023 School Based Apprentice of the Year Award.
The Principal’s Award – Student of the Year was awarded to Construction student Luke Walker. This award is presented to a student who principal Danny Deptula, after consultation with staff, considers to be the most outstanding campus-based student at St Patrick’s Technical College.
“It recognises a student who has demonstrated outstanding academic and trade training performance as well as an unwavering commitment to achieving their goals and their SACE,” Mr Deptula said.
Luke joined the college in 2021 as one of the inaugural Year 10 students. Respected and hardworking, he gained a high level of academic achievement and commenced a three-year traineeship in horticulture upon the completion of his secondary education.
The outstanding achievements from the graduating class are recognised each year through the college’s awards program. Recipients receive a trophy and prize money thanks to the generosity and support of industry sponsors.
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“We honour our students for their commitment to learning, and their unwavering ambition and strength to persevere through challenges and opportunities,” Mr Deptula said.
“Their generous support is a testament to the esteem in which this college is held and most importantly, it shows a tremendous commitment by industry and the vocational training community to the future of young people.
“We are privileged for the opportunity to have been able to nurture our students, to help them find their purpose, and to allow them to proudly pursue a pathway in industry while still at school.”
During the presentation evening held last year, 18 individual awards valued at more than $10,000 were presented to outstanding students and apprentices.