Fourteen Year 11 Work Studies students took part in the initiative, which allows students to follow the job-seeking process from advertisement to interview in a non-threatening environment.

The program, facilitated by Bathurst Industry Links, was reintroduced this week after a three-year hiatus.

Daniel Nancarrow “applied” for a mechanic apprenticeship with a cover letter and resume before he was interviewed yesterday morning.

The 17-year-old, who has not applied for a job before, said he now had some idea what to expect.

“In the interview we talked about why I want to become a mechanic and that sort of thing,” he said. “I told them I’m a good worker and that I like to do any job that’s asked of me. I tried to answer their questions well and keep good eye contact.

“I was a bit nervous but now I know what to do when I go for a real job.”

Local industry professionals conducted yesterday’s interviews, including Mars Petcare Bathurst training and systems manager Howard Grace, CRS Australia employment consultant Kylie Holford, Bathurst Electrical finance and HR manager Madelain Ciccocioppo and Joel Beckett from VERTO.

Mr Grace said it was important for applicants to prepare before an interview.

“We were asking questions about what the students understood about the role they were going for; what their strengths and weaknesses were; how they work in a team environment – the typical questions that would come up in any job interview,” he said. 

“My advice to students entering the workforce is to think about what you are going to be asked in an interview and be prepared in your own mind.”

Ms Holford said students responded well.

“They answered our questions exceptionally well and they were dressed appropriately, which is 

important,” she said.

Students received feedback on their performance following the interviews.

Bathurst Industry Links officer Carolyn Murphy said she hoped the program would continue next term.