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17-Dec-2025 | Education & Training

Celebrating our Building Links Graduates

Each year, SYC Education and Training work with secondary school students across Adelaide through Building Links, a VET in Schools program that combines accredited training with meaningful community outcomes. In partnership with SA Housing Trust, students gain hands-on experience while completing a Certificate II in Construction Pathways, developing practical skills and industry knowledge that set them up for careers in the construction industry.

SA Housing Trust provides SYC with two properties each year, along with building materials, to support practical learning. Students are guided by SYC’s experienced construction trainers and supported by the Success and Wellbeing Services team, who help with study skills, confidence, and any personal challenges that may arise during training.

Throughout 2025, students worked on two properties, taking on a range of construction tasks. At the northern property, they removed and replaced ceilings, installed insulation and plasterboard, painted living areas, completed concrete works and removed an old shed and fence. At the southern property, students carried out extensive renovations, including demolition, plastering and tiling, cabinetry installation, painting, paving, drainage, landscaping and installing new kitchens and bathrooms.

We recently celebrated the 2025 Building Links graduation at one of the renovated homes. The event recognised the incredible achievements of students over the year and gave them the chance to share their success with family, trainers and potential apprenticeship providers.

Reflecting on their experience, student Ryder shared:

"This was an amazing course that has given me experience for many possible careers. The social aspect was great, the assessments were straightforward and I loved all the practical work. It was fun and will definitely open up opportunities for me."

Ryder’s words capture the essence of Building Links, as the program does not just teach construction skills, it builds futures. Many graduates go on to secure apprenticeships, leaving the program with industry connections and the confidence to succeed on-site.

This year, Building Links was recognised as an SA Training Award Finalist for Industry Collaboration, highlighting the strength of the partnership between SYC and SA Housing Trust. The nomination reflects the impact of combining education and training with real-world experience, benefiting students and the families moving into the renovated homes, and celebrates the dedication of everyone involved, from students and trainers to program partners.

We extend a huge thank you to our program partners, including SA Housing Trust, the Department of Education, the Department of State Development (Skills SA), and the Construction Industry Training Board. Special recognition goes to Melissa De Leo, Denis Ganley and Mike Farrell from SA Housing Trust for their ongoing support.

We also acknowledge our trainers, Chris Walsh, Daniel Mikowski, Tony Punshon, and all Success and Wellbeing Services Coaches who guided and supported students throughout the year.

Building Links is about more than renovating homes. It equips students with practical construction skills, confidence, and connections, giving them a head start in their careers while helping deliver safe, high-quality homes for South Australian families.

Congratulations to all graduates. You should be incredibly proud of what you have achieved.

RTO Code: 40053