Dick Smith inspires Loyola trade training students to succeed

Dick Smith shared his experience with students.

Dick Smith toured the facilities at Loyola's Trade Training Centre

One of Australia’s most renowned entrepreneurs, Dick Smith, visited Loyola Senior High School Trade Training Centre, Mount Druitt on Monday 22 August to share his story from humble beginnings to become one of Australia’s ‘national treasures’.

Arriving by helicopter, Dick Smith toured the Trade Training Centre led by assistant principal, Tammy Prestage and Catholic Education’s director of system performance. Sophie Ryan. The TTC hospitality students prepared and served a three-course lunch for their prestigious visitor.  

In speaking with the students, Dick Smith advised them that risks should be well thought out and that respecting others was the key to being successful. He encouraged the students to use their skills to build upon the qualifications gained at the Trade Training Centre to allow them to draw connections between their learning and the real world.

Teacher, Clinton Boreham, who wrote to Dick Smith inviting him to visit Loyola, said that staff and students will never forget the visit and the opportunity to listen to the inspiring advice from the former Australian of the Year.

‘He stressed the point that it doesn’t matter what your postcode or background is, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to, so long as you are willing to put in time and commitment,’ said Clinton. ‘This message motivates all of us to strive in everything we do.’

‘Dick Smith’s success is testimony to his hard work and dedication,’ he said.

Presented with a Trade Training Centre jacket before he left, Dick Smith said he was impressed by the Loyola community spirit and the opportunities for students to pursue a vocational education along with their academic studies.

Tammy Prestage said that Dick Smith’s visit was important to the students as well as the Mount Druitt community and that his message really resonated with the students.

‘It was a wonderful opportunity to gain a unique insight into one of Australia’s most prominent businessmen,’ said Tammy.

Loyola Trade Training Centre provides Year 11 and 12 students with the oppourtunity to complete their Higher School Certificate while starting a trade qualification in Hairdressing, Hospitality, Electrotechnology, Automotive, Carpentry, Shop Fitting or Engineering. For more information visit www.loyolamtdruitt.catholic.edu.au

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