More than 500 Holmesglen trainees over three years will receive practical industry experience at Australia’s largest retail and lifestyle destination, under the innovative deal.
It is believed to be the first formal partnership of its type in Australia as the nation faces a skilled-worker shortage.
Construction, furniture making, floristry, fork-lift driving, and hospitality are among the skills trainees will be exposed to during work placements at Chadstone. Students will receive real-world work experience to complement their formal training at Holmesglen Institute less than 1km away.
Holmesglen courses that are part of the partnership include SFL30115 Certificate III in Floristry, MSF40118 Certificate IV in Interior Decoration and MSF40222 Certificate IV in Furniture Design and Manufacturing, among several others.
Trainees will learn from industry leaders as part of the program with Chadstone and will benefit from exposure to integrated real world projects and paid placements. The collaboration projects aim to provide participants with the necessary skills and valuable experience required for a successful entry to the workforce upon completion of their studies.
“The partnership is a perfect fit,’’ said Tamara Kearsley, Holmesglen Institute’s General Manager of Industry Engagement.
“We are helping create the next generation of skilled workers and Chadstone is well placed to assist with the development of those skills,’’ Ms Kearsley said. “It’s an innovative win-win solution.’’
Chadstone, which is jointly owned by Vicinity Centres and the Gandel Group, and Holmesglen Institute are among the biggest employers in the South Eastern suburbs.
Chadstone Centre Manager Daniel Boyle said Chadstone was looking forward to providing practical on-the-job training to local students at the Southern Hemisphere’s largest fully integrated retail and lifestyle destination.
“As two of the largest employers in Melbourne’s South East, Chadstone is proud to partner with Holmesglen to deliver this meaningful initiative. Our partnership with Holmesglen represents our shared vision and commitment to deliver strategic community projects that enhance job opportunities within our local community,” Mr Boyle said.
“Chadstone’s position within the South Eastern Economic Corridor places it at the epicentre of the largest area of employment opportunities outside the CBD.’’
Chadstone this month revealed a $485 million development of The Market Pavilion fresh food precinct and One Middle Road office tower which will create more than 1,000 jobs during construction. More than $600 million in total works are currently under way including a new entertainment and dining precinct, The Social Quarter due to open this summer.
Project areas of collaboration will range from creative design for floristry and furniture making, to on-site plant infrastructure tours and emergency safety management training. In addition to engaging students in activities for practical industry experience, the partnership between Chadstone – The Fashion Capital and Holmesglen Institute will enhance shopping experiences for visitors who will gain access and exposure to student exhibitions and creative works at Chadstone.
Find out more about our courses and ground-breaking industry partnerships.
