Cows Create Careers is running in 23 dairying regions across the country, aiming to encourage young people to consider a career in the dairy industry.

This is the first year Skillset Senior College has offered agriculture as a subject choice for students and they were delighted last week to take receipt of two seven-week-old jersey calves that were delivered to our school.

Skillset manager for education Abbey Barrett said rearing the calves at school was at the heart of the program.

“Students will be required to feed the calves twice a day, as well as look after and monitor them to help instill an appreciation of what is required to keep livestock healthy,” Ms Barrett said.

“It also hopes to showcase the dairy industry as a real and potential career avenue.”

Ms Barrett said even though few of the Skillset students had come from a farming background, they had quickly taken the young calves to heart.

“The students just light up when they come in contact with animals,” she said.

“This is such an innovative program and we are so pleased that our students are so keen to participate.

“One of the calves is already known as Princess. Not sure what the second calf will be called just yet but I’m sure we won’t have long to wait.”

Students also complete theoretical modules, are introduced to vocational and university pathways and learn about the linkages between educational and employment sectors.

Dr Jess Jennings was a guest speaker at the school last week, offering his own insights into life on the land and detailing potential career paths for interested students.

He was able provide some hands-on advice to the Skillset students about raising livestock and about the dairy industry in Australia.

Dr Jennings is an experienced a local agriculture consultant with a PhD in agriculture.

The Cows Create Careers program kicked off in 2004 and is now offered in more than 200 schools, with nearly 12,000 students participating each year.