Education + collaboration = innovation
Innovation has to start in the classroom: it’s where future entrepreneurs are moulded.
For Logan’s classrooms in 2022, it’s also where links with the business world begin – important links which can help them understand and take steps towards their own career pathways.
That’s the philosophy behind Logan Education Round Table (LERT). Formed in mid-2021, the group brings together education leaders from across Logan with the intention of pooling ideas, resources and voices to fill gaps and build on opportunities for students in the city.
‘In the education space, there is always so much happening and we wanted to ensure we collaborate and don’t compete,’ Executive Principal and Chair of the ENABLE Network of schools Sharon Amos, Chair of SER Enable Network, says.
‘We’re developing an action plan to give young people in Logan the chance to participate in great programs, services and pathway support – and benefit from business partnerships formed by the schools and the educators themselves.’
The end goal – young people on a path to meaningful employment – would also result in increased prosperity and business appeal across the City of Logan.
The group meets monthly at a different local business each time, and comprises of principals, educators and representatives from the Department of Employment and Training, TAFE, Logan Office of Economic Development, and Griffith University.
Meetings focus on action.
‘We talk, but we also do,’ Sharon says.
“It’s important that we leave the meeting having made decisions, furthered our strategy, and we can start implementing some of these opportunities for our students as quickly as possible.”
“Collaborate, leverage and learn with education, government, industry and business on the programs that are currently adding value to youth in the Logan region. To explore the gaps and barriers and put actions in place to reduce the silos, support each other and build a strong network to support youth”
— Logan Education Round Table purpose
Some of the actions include grant applications, business partnerships, and information sharing about activities across the region to encourage integration and raise awareness.
LERT’s first meeting for 2022 was held at the newly established Hydrogen Apprenticeship Centre in Beenleigh, a state-funded facility which is part of the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre, the only one of its kind in Australia.
‘This tour was amazing – and collaborations are already underway to get young people into hydrogen apprenticeships in early 2023,’ Sharon says.
LERT is seeking interest from Logan businesses to collaborate with the group, and gain a pipeline of young people with great skills that can add value to their business. Email innovation@logan.qld.gov.au for more information.
