The program, Locals Caring For Locals, began in 2012 and has resulted in more than 130 local people receiving training and employment in the aged care sector with Calvary.

Calvary has partnered with Nova Skill and WEA to deliver the program.

Applicants undertake nine weeks of pre-vocational training, and on completion, successful graduates may be offered the opportunity to complete the full Certificate III Individual Support (ageing) qualification over 12 months, during which they are partnered with Calvary Cessnock staff mentors.

Calvary Cessnock general manager Kristin Smith said the program is about finding people who want to make a difference in residents’ lives.

“You have to love working with older people and you have to have a can-do attitude,” Ms Smith said.

“The pre-vocational program allows both Calvary and the individual to decide if the aged care industry is for them.

“We have had many trainees go on to full employment in the industry or further their studies in a variety of health care related fields, including nursing.”

The latest intake of trainees celebrated their graduation at Potters Brewery on March 22, with more than 160 employees, family and friends in attendance.

Special awards were presented to Matthew Stokes (Trainee of the Year), Wendy Gore (General Manager’s award), Aimee Simon (Academic Achievement), Jessie Gee and Stephanie Shepherd (joint winners of the Rising Star award) and Michelle Saunders (Mentor of the Year).

Ms Smith said the celebration was a fitting end to the program.

“The enthusiasm and commitment they have shown as they undertook the journey has been a privilege to witness,” she said.

“The experience has changed lives and created new pathways.

“We look forward to welcoming this new group of new staff to our team.”