Aveley student named apprentice of the year

Aveley Secondary College student Marlissa White is on the road to success after she was named WA School-based Apprentice of the Year.

The Year 12 student was recognised at the 2026 WA Training Awards for her outstanding achievement in balancing her school studies with a Certificate II in Automotive Services Technology through Motor Trade Association of Western Australia and a school-based traineeship with WesTrac.

Marlissa has already secured a full-time apprenticeship with WesTrac, starting next year, after being selected as one of just two successful candidates from more than 1,400 applicants in her chosen specialisation.

Marlissa said the school-based traineeship had transformed her outlook on the future and that entering a traditionally male-dominated industry did not deter her from pursuing her interest in automotive technology.

“Before this traineeship, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do once I finished school,” she said.

“Now I have an apprenticeship in an industry I want to pursue in the future, and I've gained valuable workplace experience while completing my studies.

“The support from my teachers and the school's pathways team gave me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and pursue a career I'm passionate about.

“I'd encourage other students to keep an open mind, ask questions and take every opportunity to learn because you never know where it might lead.”

Aveley Secondary College VET Coordinator Ashleigh Leaver said Marlissa's success reflected her commitment, work ethic and willingness to embrace every opportunity available to her.

“Marlissa is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when students pursue their passions and engage in vocational education and training opportunities,” she said.

“School-based traineeships allow students to develop practical skills, build confidence and gain valuable industry experience while completing their education.

“Marlissa has made the most of those opportunities and her success highlights the powerful impact these pathways can have on a young person's future.”

As the WA winner, Marlissa will represent Western Australia at the Australian Training Awards in Sydney later this year and will serve as an ambassador for vocational education and training.

Her achievement follows another strong year for public school students in the WA Training Awards.

Among this year's finalists were a trio of Hedland Senior High School students, Ameerah Tullock-Brierly, Adam Hobden and Lee Stimpson, who were recognised in the WA School-based Apprentice of the Year category.

Other Department of Education finalists included Kai Stanbridge from Melville Senior High School in the WA Vocational Student of the Year category, Payton Callope from WA College of Agriculture Narrogin in the WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year category, and Tim Rowberry from John Curtin College of the Arts in the WA Trainer of the Year category.

Marlissa's success, alongside the achievements of other public school finalists, highlights the opportunities available to students through vocational education and training pathways, combining secondary education with industry experience and employment opportunities.