Teenagers take over the Shire for Mossman High work experience
YEAR 10s TAKE CHARGE
If you noticed a sudden surge of remarkably professional teenagers handling everything from local plumbing to horse training across the Shire last week, don’t panic. It was just an ambitious army of Mossman High Year 10 students diving headfirst into the workforce.
Over 90 brave students traded their school uniforms for high-vis vests, scrubs, and aprons, getting a true taste of the fast-paced world of full-time employment.
Thanks to an incredible network of local businesses, these teenagers didn’t just shadow the professionals; they got their hands dirty across a massive variety of industries.
Students truly did it all, from assisting with veterinary surgery, dissecting small animals for predator food, and breaking in horses, to preparing tuckshop lunches, learning the ropes in plumbing, and changing engine oil.
Student Nate Hill even found himself right back on school grounds, working alongside his employer, FNQ Air and Refrigeration.
For Nate, the absolute highlight of the week was completing a concrete pour right at his own school, while picking up invaluable skills like cleaning and installing air conditioners and safely ensuring electrical currents are isolated.
Meanwhile, across the community and hospitality sectors, students kept the town running by preparing tuckshop lunches, supervising primary schoolers, and welcoming global travelers as tourism support.
Future leaders
Mrs Guthrie, Head of Department for Senior School & Transitions, was incredibly proud of the glowing feedback from local employers.
“Many of our students stepped way outside their comfort zones this week,” she said.
“They impressed their hosts with a level of maturity and eagerness to learn that made us all proud.”
The week was such a success that some students even walked away with permanent part-time jobs.
Mrs Guthrie extended a heartfelt thank you to the local businesses for trusting the teenagers and helping bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world.
“To our Year 10s: Congratulations on an outstanding week," she added. "You brought energy, professionalism, and serious hustle to the workforce. Keep that momentum going as you look toward your futures!”
