Skills Institute

Thursday, 14 March 2013 - 12:58pm

Dylan Briers once shunned the traditional environment of school, was completely disinterested in learning and in his own words “got into a lot of trouble” when he started high school.

It’s hard to believe of the well-spoken 17-year-old, who is now a Skills Institute apprentice working at Glenview Community Services and also attending Claremont College.

“I got put into the Big Picture Program (at Jordan River Learning Federation) and was placed to work in Glenview Community Services to help keep me interested,” he said.

Big Picture Program Advisor Cluny Addis said Dylan was a true success story from the program.

“We are thrilled for him that he has found something he loves to do and is excelling at it.”

Dylan’s employer Jason Nicholson said while Dylan was a challenge initially, the entire Glenview staff had supported him and nurtured his development.

“As a person who also struggled with the standard format of schooling, I can appreciate that not everyone learns in the same manner,” Jason said.

“After four years, Dylan is considered by the staff to be a part of the team and an important contributor to the work environment.

“He can work independently, ‘think for himself’, show initiative and is always positive.”

The Skills Institute’s cookery teacher Peter Henderson has been mentoring Dylan and said he was showing great promise in his chosen career.

“Initially we worked on some difficulties Dylan was having with literacy and numeracy, but now he’s progressing really well and continuing to excel,” Peter said.

“He was even presented with a Pride of Workmanship High Achievement award from the Glenorchy Rotary Club late last year in recognition of his hard work and commitment.”

Dylan said his interest in cooking came through his mother, who also cooks at an aged care facility.

“My favourite part is dessert-making, I have a bit of a sweet tooth,” he admitted. “I love to cook crème caramel, apple sponge and shortbread and chocolate biscuits.”

While a job at a larger commercial company such as Wrest Point or somewhere similar would be a long-term goal, at the moment Dylan is happy to continue his training and learning from as many people as possible from all areas.

“At Glenview the residents are also great – I get to interact with them a bit which is fun,” he said.

“I have two younger brothers and a sister at home, and sometimes I like to help mum and take over cooking dinner for her. I’d like to be a good example for my family.”