From Work Experience to Full-Time Apprentice: Patrick’s Success Story

Details: Published: 28 November 2025

A huge congratulations to Patrick Borysiewicz, who has secured a full-time apprenticeship with Campbells Soup in Shepparton as a Fitter and Turner, starting in January next year.

Earlier this year, Campbells Soup visited GSSC for an incursion where students heard from four local employers in the manufacturing industry. After the session, students were encouraged to stay back at recess to meet and greet the employers for further discussions. Patrick was one of those students who took the opportunity to connect.

Thanks to Patrick’s enthusiasm and proactive approach, Campbell's Soup offered him a work experience placement. This soon led to a second placement, further strengthening his skills and connections.

When an apprenticeship opportunity arose, Patrick was encouraged to apply. His commitment and initiative saw him shortlisted for a pre-interview via The Apprenticeship Factory, and ultimately, he was successful in securing the role.

On Patrick’s last day of school, Partnerships Manager Lisa Kerr caught up with him to reflect on his journey and capture his thoughts about this exciting next chapter.

Here’s what Patrick had to say about it all.

How do you feel about starting your apprenticeship and leaving school?
“Mostly excited, but also it feels strange as school is all I’ve ever known. I look forward to doing something I enjoy whilst getting paid for it!”

Have you enjoyed school & what was your favourite subject?
“I really enjoyed the social side of schooling, my favourite subject was probably English as my teacher Rosie Cobb is a great teacher, she’s the best, I also enjoyed my PE classes!”

What made you interested in this career pathway?
“My dad is a sparky, so I have always been interested in pursuing a trade, I just wasn’t sure which trade. I have helped dad at home with renovations, worked a little bit in plumbing with septic & sewerage as well as a refrigeration mechanic. My dad encouraged me to get experience as a Fitter & Turner, and this was the work experience I enjoyed the most!”

What words of advice do you have for other students?
“Take the opportunities that school provide you, meet with and speak to employers when they come in as you never know what might come from it!”

Benefits of work experience & SWL
Patrick also mentioned that Electrical and other better-known Trades are promoted a lot on Tik Tok so people think those are the jobs they should get. However, there are so many other jobs/trades available for young people! Patrick encourages other students to keep an open mind and make sure you do work experience to get a proper understanding of what jobs involve!

Well done, Patrick – your story is a fantastic example of how taking initiative and seizing opportunities can lead to incredible outcomes! Our GSSC community is very proud of you and wishes you all the best!

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