Belle started an apprenticeship with MS Construction in January, which will help her gain a Certificate III in Building and Construction.
She completes training one day a week as part of her VCE studies and said every day was different.
“It's really good, it's all hands-on work which varies depending on what site we're working,” she said.“The school has helped a lot to organise it for me.”
Working in building and construction runs in the family, with Belle's father Danny Dunn owning Cobram's Coolroom Carpenters.“I've always known that I wanted to be a builder and do something hands-on,” Belle said.
“Every now and then I try to go to work with my Dad to get even more experience.
“I'm hoping to start my own business one day.”She said MS Construction employees made her feel welcome.
MS Constructions owner Matt Sim said the business started taking on school-based apprentices about six years ago.
“It's great because then the student will know if they like the industry or not and as employers, we will know if they are a good fit and decide to keep them on,” he said.All of MS Constructions apprentices have come through a school-based program, with one first year and one second year apprentice and a fully accredited carpenter now working at the business.
“Some people don't always enjoy the school curriculum and if they can get into an apprenticeship they can get closer to their career goals nice and early,” Mr Sim said.
“We can train them in our quality of business and know they will fit the mould in future.”
He said students who do what they love will never work a day in their life.
Mr Sim started his career as an apprentice, completing a Certificate II in Carpentry at KTL Homes, previously based in Cobram.
He has now been running his own business for nine years.
Mr Sim said Belle was an asset to the team at MS Constructions and encouraged local businesses to take on apprentices themselves.
“For any business wanting to put on a school-based apprentice, it's really easy and it helps connect local employers to young people in the community,” he said.