At MOB Academy, we’re all about helping young men step into their future with confidence. For Year 12 student Caleb Grimmett, that future is starting to take shape, quite literally.
Through the TAFE at School program at TAFE Queensland’s Ashmore campus, Caleb and four other high school students took on one of the toughest builds around: a spiral staircase, built from the ground up.
While most students stick with standard final projects, Caleb’s Certificate I in Construction group chose one that pushed their problem-solving and technical skills to the limit.
Carpentry teacher Ray Collom said a spiral staircase requires advanced maths, teamwork, and a high level of focus.
“The math and engineering behind a spiral staircase are quite complex. The students had to collaborate through numerous design changes, staying laser-focused on their goals. I was genuinely shocked at how well they pulled it off.”
The build turned heads on campus.
“All the apprentices and Ashmore staff walking by were shocked to see schoolkids taking on such a challenging project,” said Ray.
Among the standout contributors was MOB Academy’s Caleb Grimmett, known for his attention to detail and quiet determination.
“Caleb has a strong drive to get things right, but he also learned to adapt when things didn’t go to plan. He often worked independently and faced every challenge with calm determination,” said Ray.
For Caleb, the program offered more than technical skills, it built confidence and opened doors.
“The course gave me a solid foundation in woodworking, tools, and techniques – skills I know I can carry into any trade in the future,” he said.
“Studying at TAFE while still in school made a big difference, and my teacher Ray gave me the confidence to seriously pursue a career in construction.”
But it was also the mentorship that stayed with him.
“Ray was incredibly passionate, not just about construction but about helping us grow. He shared knowledge that went beyond the classroom, including real life lessons that I’ll take with me wherever I go,” Caleb said.
Caleb’s staircase stands as a symbol of growth, grit, and what’s possible when young men are given real-world opportunities.
“It’s comforting to know my hard work is good enough to be recognised,” he said.
MOB Academy Pathway Coordinator Ricardo Parata called the TAFE at School program a game-changer for students like Caleb.
“It’s a no-brainer. At MOB Academy, we’ve seen firsthand the benefits of combining high school with TAFE. For students who are more hands-on or career-focused, this pathway can be incredibly rewarding.”
“They’re gaining real-world experience, practical skills, and nationally recognised qualifications — all while working toward their QCE.”
For Ricardo, this is bigger than one staircase.
“Seeing a result like this shows what can happen when hard work, hands-on learning, and commitment come together. It inspires other students to believe in their own potential.”
