Students have travelled to places such as New Zealand, Canada, the US and the UK for industry placement as part of their agricultural skills development.

The work placements are compulsory for most second year students and last eight weeks. S

tudents are assessed on their academic participation in placements when they return.

Longerenong College industry placement co-ordinator Greg Radford said placements were a great way for students to learn more about the agriculture industry.

“They are asked to make up their own minds as to where they go, and are encouraged to get experience in an industry or field that their not used to,” he said.

“The students love getting out there and the feedback we get is always positive.

“Industry placement is key for their future careers; they prove that they are willing to get out there and be motivated to work in the industry.

“It’s a really valuable program for both students and employees, with many students securing jobs off the back of their placements.

“The feedback we get from employers is also very positive and we have a lot of repeat hosts.”

Second year students students Kane Mason, Ellie McDonald and Jaime Vagg are currently in New Zealand for their placement.

The trio have spent time getting to know Goitland sheep and inspecting kale crop.

Students will return home in early July.