On Tuesday 1^st September, 25 students were selected to attend the 2020 Polish Program. This program was hosted by the Beacon Inspiring Futures Foundation. The day started with the four Grade 9 Beacon Ambassadors greeting Renée Frost and Ebony Bridle. These were the two guest speakers that volunteered their time to host the day's event. We began by discussing the key skills and requirements that workplaces look for in an employee and how first impressions make a massive difference when applying for a job. After our recess break, we came back to examine the reasoning behind elevator pitches, and why they are so important. We then composed our own pitch and practiced using them on our peers.

Afterwards, we had four mentors come in to talk to us about their jobs and what they did or have done to secure their positions. These mentors included Rob Patterson, Alec Heazlewood, David Kewley and Steve Frankcombe. After a brief explanation from these men, we were then invited next door to a formal lunch, hosted by the 9/10 catering team. We were seated on tables with the mentors and encouraged to ask any or all burning questions we had for them. The food was delicious and we cannot thank the catering team and Mr Pedersen enough for all their hard work.

After lunch, we were set into small groups and assigned one mentor. We then took in turns practicing what a real interview would look and feel like. This activity gave us great insight and feedback for us to learn from.

After a thank you from the students, we left all the adults with a parting gift before walking them out to the office again. Once again, we would just like to say thank you to Renée, Ebony and all the other mentors involved for giving up their time to help and prepare us for any future job opportunities we come across.

Chaise Jordan & Ella Fullbrook