Since it was established in 2019, the Pathways 2 Mining program, a partnership between the CSA Mine and Cobar High School, has helped to prepare more than 100 students for a career in the mining industry.
The Pathways 2 Mining program is a school-to-work initiative that gives students practical experience at a mine site and industry-recognised training while they are still at school.
The latest batch of 12 students from the program graduated from their work skills preparation course last week after having successfully completed a number Nationally Accredited courses including Working Safely at Heights, Confined Spaces and First Aid training.
At last week’s graduation ceremony Harmony CSA Mine’s Workforce Capability Advisor Tony Chaplain led a presentation to the mine’s general manager Robert Gracey, managers and senior staff, along with Cobar High School principal Shane Carter, about the outcomes of the program.
Students spoke about what they liked most about the program.
Mr Chaplain said there was a high level of interest in the program shown by all students.
He said since 2019 the program has been expanded and it’s something they are very proud of.
“In the last three years CSA/ Harmony have employed 10 apprentices, through the Pathways program,” Mr Chaplain said.
The next batch of Cobar High students begin their placement in August and that class is already full.
