The ‘SPARK’ program is an innovative accredited training program which was delivered at Zac's Place Inc. Australia, which is situated in Yass.

It is a collaborative efforts of Ginninderry, Community Zac's Place Inc. Australia Yass, Community Garden, Southern Region Business Enterprise Centre and TAFE NSW.

The program offers l the opportunity  for unemployed people and students to learn about, and develop skills in a full range of building activities including carpentry, bricklaying and concreting.

When they have completed the 14 week training program, they leave with a TAFE Certificate II in Construction, a ‘White Card’, and  nationally accredited ‘Asbestos Awareness’  training, along with a wealth of experience.

“We feel very privileged to have been part of such an exciting program  and all the other partners have been such a great crew to work with,” Ros Stewart said.

“We are  about a quarter of the way through another 14 week program at the moment, and hopefully, there will be many more to come.”

“We are hoping that if there is enough interest shown, that we may be able to run the program here in Harden in the future,” Mrs Stewart said.

“It currently runs in Yass over three days per week and we have been organising transport to Yass for those people interested in taking part.”

“It is a program offered to people of all ages and is a completely supported learning program.”

Students from High School are able to receive a one hundred day exemption from school to take part in the program, but this can only be done on the School’s recommendation.

For anyone interested in taking part in the ‘SPARK’ program, please contact Ros Stewart on 0406 379 561, or pop in to the Hard Rock Gym to have a chat with her.