“The Beacon approach is distinctive because it bridges the gap between education and industry through a dynamic, student-centred model,” Ebony explains. “We’re values-driven, highly responsive, and always adapting to meet the needs of young people and the changing world of work.”
With over 35 years of experience, Beacon’s mission is clear: to make learning real. By partnering with a range of industries, Beacon connects students to hands-on work opportunities.
“These engagements aren’t just observational,” Ebony says. “They’re participatory, designed to help students understand the relevance of their education, explore career pathways, and develop essential employability skills.”
The data speaks for itself. From 2022 to 2024, Beacon worked with 488 unique businesses, in multiple locations, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. 94% of employers said Beacon’s Work-based Learning service enhanced young people’s understanding of jobs and careers. 83% said it helped students link their strengths to skills needed in the workplace. 95% felt it prepared young people for the world of work.
Employers themselves highlight the value of Beacon’s approach. An Industry volunteer at a recent Bridgewater Bridge site tour explained, “Beacon are able to connect us with school groups we otherwise may not connect with. They provide a comfortable setting in which we can communicate with the students and provide them with realistic information about working in construction.”
Ebony lights up when talking about the impact these experiences have on students. “When students explore real-world roles, they start to see themselves in a future of purpose and possibility,” she says.
She recalls a recent success story. “A student from the West Coast took part in a site tour with Gordon River Cruises. That experience turned into a work opportunity, brokered by Beacon, and now that student is employed by the company.”
At Rosny College, two students who were struggling to engage in school found their spark thanks to a facilitated work placement. “One student didn’t plan to finish college,” Ebony says. “After a hands-on placement with an earthmoving business, he’s now doing an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA) and is determined to finish Year 12.”
For employers, engaging with students through Beacon’s programs is more than community service, it’s a way to build their own future workforce. “We help industry partners build a pipeline of future talent,” Ebony explains. “These are structured, professionally facilitated opportunities for meaningful engagement that go beyond a one-off interaction.” She says that by creating multiple touchpoints, like site tours, in-school industry panels, and hands-on work experience, employers can identify motivated young people who are genuinely interested in their field.
“Young people need more opportunities,” Ebony says. “It’s a rewarding and insightful experience to welcome a young person into your workplace, and we need more businesses supporting young people to realise their potential.”
Ebony is clear: investing in Beacon’s Work-based Learning services isn’t just good for students, it’s essential for the future of Tasmania’s economy. “When young people see what’s possible and have the chance to try it out, they’re far more likely to stay engaged and make informed decisions about their future,” she says. “This early engagement supports the development of key elements that build career confidence: skills, mindset, and exposure.”
Looking to the future, Ebony sees an exciting opportunity: “We want to reach students from Years 7 and 8, building foundational skills and confidence early on. There’s strong demand from educators, and we’re ready with the programs, relationships, and experience to deliver.”
Want to learn more about how Beacon and other programs are helping shape bright futures for young Tasmanians? Don’t miss out, the Vocational Learning webpage.