SIDE's Career Department was thrilled that we could take our highly successful Mini Industry Roadshow (MiR) to Onslow Primary School, Pannawonica School, and Roebourne District High School. Onslow, Pannawonica, and Roebourne are towns that can be visited as part of the Warlu Way, a legendary road trip that takes visitors through the ancient Pilbara landscape.
Students engaged in amazing hands-on practical workshops in the fields of Electrical Engineering, Hospitality, and Rigging with SIDE's skilled presenters, Aidan Bayliss, Bonnie Blewitt, and Blake Chase.
Pannawonica School
Roebourne District High School
Electrical Engineering: Blake excited and impressed students with the amazing world of electrical engineering and its practical use in the high-risk worlds of motorsports and skydiving. Students developed practical skills in connecting and correcting circuit boards and powering their own mini devices.
Hospitality: Bonnie introduced students to the enormous potential of the hospitality industry. Students engaged in high-paced, fun, and exciting activities simulating a busy café environment. They also learned how to use important customer service skills professionally and the importance of working within a team.
Rigging: Aidan from All Directions Performance and Rigging showed the students the dynamic high-energy industry of professional rigging. Students engaged in rope skills, working at heights, WHS (Workplace Health and Safety) for rigging, and teamwork safety when relying on others at heights. It was a fascinating look at the fast-growing industry and the widespread career opportunities to which it can lead.
Onslow Primary School
The Mini Industry Roadshow experience from SIDE (School of Isolated and Distance Education) supported the students from Onslow Primary School, Pannawonica School, and Roebourne District High School in developing their employable skills and gave the students an authentic insight into the day-to-day working conditions of these industries while reinforcing SIDE's commitment to delivering educational opportunities to communities all over Western Australia.
The SIDE Mini-Roadshow is a unique program designed to support Aboriginal students in remote locations across the state, including Onslow. It provides culturally responsive education by bringing learning directly to the students' communities, making it hands-on, accessible, and relevant to their background and industries found in our area.
The program has worked closely with Onslow School for the past three years and this collaboration ensures that the experience provided aligns with the community's values and the students' future goals. The Mini-Roadshow also introduces students to new opportunities and helps them develop skills that will guide them in their future pathways.
Overall, the SIDE Mini-Roadshow is a strong example of cultural responsiveness in education. By adapting to the needs of Aboriginal students and integrating their unique experiences, the program effectively supports their educational journey and future aspirations.
Deputy Principal | Onslow Primary School