Two NSW Government initiatives are set to make it easier for Clarence Valley youngsters to transition from school to a career, according to Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis.

“Firstly we are investing more than 50 million dollars to make government-subsidised traineeships fee-free. This, coupled with the $285 million initiative that’s made apprenticeships fee-free, shows the Nationals are determined to deliver sustainable regional work opportunities and wipe out the skills shortage,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“This is going to be particularly useful for young locals who want to start a rewarding career in one of the many high quality local community preschools I visit regularly.”

Mr Gulaptis said that, in addition, three local high schools – Grafton, South Grafton and Maclean – were among only a handful across the state to be selected to test $10 million new pilot program that will change the way students and their parents think about career pathways.

“The Educational Pathways Pilot Program is about helping students pick the subjects at school that will put them on the right career pathway,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“For some that may mean vocational education and training (VET) subjects which we know lead to a great job and a career for life.”