For the past two years, iyarn has been a key wellbeing partner in South Metropolitan (SM) TAFE’s BHP pathway programs. First came the Maintenance Support Technician (MST) Program in 2024, followed by the Trainee to Warehouse (T2W) Program in 2025.

These programs were designed to prepare participants, many from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, for careers in Western Australia’s resource sector. The addition of iyarn’s digital check-ins helped strengthen that experience.

A Daily Health and Wellbeing Pre-Start

Built to mirror the on-site “pre-start” process, iyarn’s digital check-ins gave students a quick and easy way to reflect each day. Their responses were automatically shared with coordinators, helping staff provide early support where needed.

Over the nine-week 2025 T2W program, students completed 326 check-ins. This consistent use helped maintain engagement and momentum throughout the course.

Outcomes That Break the Mould

Completion Rate: The 2025 BHP T2W program saw 24 completions out of 27 participants, resulting in an 88% completion rate. This is significantly higher than the national average for VET course completions in Australia, which is approximately 47%, according to NCVER data.

Employment Outcome: Of the 27 participants, 20 secured employment either with BHP or other organisations. That’s a 74% employment rate following the program.

Participants in the T2W program were nearly twice as likely to complete their training compared to the national average. The employment outcomes reflect the impact of structured support and tools like iyarn.

Participant Feedback and Coordinator Impact

Throughout the program, daily check-ins provided students with a private space to reflect. For staff, it offered real-time visibility into how participants were progressing, enabling them to step in early and offer support when it mattered most.

One coordinator shared:

“After they did their iyarn check-in, I noticed a few low scores. I went across to see the students… we worked through it. I found it really helpful.”

Students shared similar thoughts:

• 75% said they enjoyed using iyarn
• 100% found it easy to navigate
• Many said it helped them feel more connected, confident, and aware of their progress

As one program lead put it:

“The feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with iyarn fostering resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connections throughout the program.”

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t just about statistics. It’s about providing an experience where students feel supported and seen. When challenges arose, they had someone to talk to and a system that could respond in real-time.

With completion and employment rates well above the national average, it’s clear that when wellbeing is prioritised, everyone benefits.