Head Start Pilot Program

Head Start is an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA) initiative, empowering ACT public school students to kickstart their careers while completing their Senior Secondary Certificate.

Connecting students’ passions with the needs of local businesses, offering personalised support and mentorship, and equipping students with hands-on experience, industry knowledge, and a competitive edge so they can step confidently into their future careers.

Meet Lindsee

A chef-in-training, Lindsee is currently completing a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Vikings through an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA), with her school career advisers and food teachers encouraging throughout her journey. “In Year 10, my careers adviser was like, ‘Hey, this has just come up, I think you would be amazing at it,’” Lindsee recalls. Lindsee encourages other students, especially those who may be struggling with the academic side of school, to look at programs like Head Start. “ASbA are amazing … it’s a great opportunity. If you can grab one, do it. You do school part-time, you’re working, you’re getting paid for it, and you’re getting a head start on your future career.”

Meet Jai

In 2022, Jai began an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA) at Vikings through the Head Start Pilot Program. Now, 18 months later, Jai has become a confident, well-spoken graduate with a Certificate III in Hospitality and has built strong connections at Vikings. When asked if he would recommend the program, Jai responded, “Oh, absolutely! It’s just fun … because of the friendships I’ve made with people, and the customers I see every day.”