Moura and Biloela students keen on trade careers will have their potential tested when they are mentored by trades people from Anglo American’s Dawson Mine this week.

About 12 students will get a taste of what it takes to be a tradie during a trade camp run at Moura State High School by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy.

“The camp puts students in a simulated work environment where they’ll work on a hands-on project over six days utilising a range of skills needed in our sector,” said General Manager of Anglo American’s Dawson Mine, Clarence Robertson.

“It helps students learn what it takes to become a qualified tradesperson, and have confidence in their career choice,” he said.

“Our staff really enjoy mentoring the next generation of tradespeople and helping them on their career pathways.”

“We very much value these QMEA events, which help our students learn more about career pathways and their academic requirements,” said Moura State High School Principal Joshua Duff.

“Being able to talk to people already working in trades gives the students a huge advantage,” he said.

Queensland Government statistics show that 16 percent of QMEA school students entered apprenticeships or traineeships in 2018, compared with just 2.5 percent of students in non-QMEA schools.