From Reef Charters to Whale Shark Adventures

Sayuri (Year 12) has spent the past year combining her school studies with remarkable marine experiences, gaining both professional skills and memories she'll carry for life.

Wavelength Snorkel Reef Charters – Port Douglas

In June and July Sayuri spent eight days working with Wavelength Snorkel Reef Charters on the Great Barrier Reef as a stewardess. Each day, she welcomed passengers aboard, honed her customer service and hospitality skills, and immersed herself in the beauty of one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

Ningaloo Discovery – Exmouth

Earlier in April, Sayuri travelled to Exmouth to work with Ningaloo Discovery as a deckhand. “Swimming with whale sharks pretty much every day was amazing. The weather was gorgeous, the passengers were so sweet, and I loved meeting new people.” Sayuri said.

Lights, Camera, Action – Whaleshark Jack

Thanks to the flexibility of TSS, Sayuri was able to take time away from the classroom to work on the film Whaleshark Jack, set for release in cinemas this September. Stepping into the role of skipper stunt double for the young protagonist (who was too young to legally drive a boat) Sayuri navigated the vessel for the production and experienced life on a film set:

“It was so fun – I even had to go in to hair and make-up before getting on set.” she recalled.

Training and Projects at TSS

Sayuri’s achievements have been supported by TSS's unique approach to education, which makes space for real-world learning experiences in ways that traditional schooling didn’t allow. Last year, she completed her Coxswain III certificate as part of her Projects program, which enabled her to take on the skipper role in Whaleshark Jack.“ If I didn’t have that certificate, I wouldn’t have been allowed to do the job.” she said.

She has also undertaken a traineeship with Rottnest Express, recently completing her Certificate II in Workplace Skills. Every Friday, she heads out to Rottnest Island as part of her TSS program: “At my old school I wasn’t allowed to do a traineeship, but TSS supports me by letting me work every week and still finish my studies.” Sayuri explained.  

During Projects time at school, Sayuri has also been creating a book documenting all of experiences, a wonderful keepsake of her journey so far.

Looking Ahead

Excitingly, Sayuri has just been offered a full-time role with Rottnest Express, starting over the upcoming holidays. She also plans to pursue her Master 5 qualification next year, taking another big step toward her dream career on the water.

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We are so proud of Sayuri's determination and drive and we can't wait to see where her love for the ocean takes her!