Studentworks, at Rocherlea, was established 40 years ago by Launceston woman Marjorie Knox as a work experience program called Launceston Student Workshop.

Fast-forward 40 years and the workshop at Rocherlea is offering an alternative hands-on education experience for at risk young people.

Studentworks will be throwing open their doors at Rocherlea on October 26 for the first open day the organisation has had for several years.

Studentworks general manager Shon McIntee said students develop positive, respectful relationships with instructors.

“Combining this with a safe, supportive and meaningful real-life workplace  we aim to improve attendance, confidence and sense of belonging, along with building employability skills and a desire for further education,’’ he said.

Board chairman Sheryl Thomas said the open day would be an opportunity for past and present students, staff and supporters of Studentworks to visit and tour the workshop area.

The program operates with support of the Department of Education offering students practical skills in catering, woodwork, metalwork and warehousing, whilst focusing on life skills, literacy and numeracy.

Students involved with Studentworks can undertake woodwork, catering and metalwork as well as literacy and numeracy programs.

The programs teach students practical skills and produce real goods that are used in Northern Tasmania.

The Studentworks open day will be held at the workshop, 199 George Town Road, Rocherlea, from 10am until 6pm. There will be a sausage sizzle and tours of the workshop will be available.