Nicholas Lee joined the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program at STEPS Education & Training Cairns in July 2014. He previously completed high school at Trinity Bay and then continued to do a Certificate II in Retail and Certificate II in Horticulture. His previous work includes working in an abattoir in South Australia and Work Experience Placement at a butcher shop in Cairns. Nick’s ultimate goal was to receive an apprenticeship as a Butcher.
While attending STEPS, Nick continuously showed his dedication to improving his LLN skills. His trainer Donna said, “he is always keen to learn about others and to participate in class activities”. His dedication to improving his math skills was evident as he would “work for hours” practicing his maths.
Nick’s dedication to learning and high attendance levels saw him nominated for the Cairns Work Experience Program. In fact, he was the first student in the program to participate in a placement. The Work Experience Program gave Nick the opportunity to work on the core employ-ability skills and relevant industry knowledge needed for Butchery.
Nick did his placement at a wonderful family owned and operated company called Cairns Bulk Meats, located in Ishmael Road, Earlville. The Edmonds family has been supplying high quality meat, poultry and small goods to the North for 5 generations. This industry experience made Cairns Bulk Meats a perfect environment for Nick to learn in. During his placement Nick was able to observe key tasks and protocols of being a butcher. It also gave him the opportunity to utilise the skills practiced in the classroom and implement them into a real workplace situation.
Nick did a great job during his Work Experience and received a wonderful evaluation from his Host Organisation. He has since been offered an apprenticeship with Cairns Bulk Meats. Such a fantastic opportunity!
Nick is a perfect example of how hard work and determination pays off. We are extremely proud of Nick and wish him all the best for the future.
Find out more about STEPS Education & Training SEE Program.
