For one local Year 11 student, a school-based traineeship has completely changed the way he sees his future.

The 16-year-old from Bridgewater, who wishes to remain anonymous, struggled for years in the classroom environment. Like many young people who learn better through practical experience, he found school frustrating and difficult to engage with.

“I hated school. I got frustrated and was swearing a lot,” he admitted.

Close to being suspended once again, the teenager — let’s call him Jake — was offered an opportunity that would prove life-changing: a school-based traineeship.

Jake enjoys spending time with his mates, riding and repairing his bike and scooter, and buying and selling items on Marketplace. He says there is not a lot for teenagers his age to do in Bridgewater, which often leaves young people disengaged.

At the end of last year, Jake completed a four-week work trial at Loaves & Fishes in Brighton, an organisation that provides affordable, safe and nutritious food to schools and Tasmanians in need. Initially, Jake admits he only signed up to get out of school. But the experience quickly became much more than that. Now, two days a week, he rides his electric scooter to Brighton and works from 7am to 3pm helping with food orders and deliveries.

“Work is a good place to be,” Jake said. “I never have days off, even when I don’t feel great. I really enjoy hands-on stuff.”

Through the traineeship, Jake has learned valuable workplace skills including manual handling, safety procedures and the importance of protective equipment. “We’ve learnt about lifting heavy things, safety, protective work gear, and we have great support from everyone around us at work,” he said.

For Jake, the traineeship has provided more than just work experience — it has given him confidence, routine and a sense of purpose. It is also a reminder that success at school does not always happen inside a classroom, and that practical pathways can unlock potential in young people who simply learn differently.