Most high school students could only dream of spending part of their school week at a football club. 

It's fair to say then that Michael Turner is living the dream. 

The 17-year-old is currently taking part in an Australian school-based apprenticeship at Visy Park, thanks to his involvement with the Koorie Academy of Excellence.

An initiative of the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association, the KAE aims to inspire and engage indigenous students in south-eastern Australia, as well as to create the next generation of Koorie leaders. 

The year 12 Reservoir High School student first became involved in the KAE after being approached by his teachers. 

"I was doing pretty well in school," Turner said. 

"So I was selected among a few other other students to join the Academy."

For Turner this was a huge honour. 

"It's good to be known as a leader among the young, indigenous students."

Relocating from Alice Springs to Melbourne with his family four years ago, Turner admitted initially finding the transition challenging. 

"It was difficult at the start,” Turner said. 

"Coming from somewhere like Alice to a big city.

"But after starting at my new school, I made some great friends and have stuck with them ever since."

Through the KAE, the opportunity arose to spend one day per week at Carlton, which in return contributes towards his end-of-year marks. 

Work placement with the Blues has been a dream come true for Turner. 

"I haven't looked back – it's been all highs," Turner said. 

"I really enjoy working in the footy department. I help out when the boys have their main training session.

"All the players are great. They're really nice blokes and always keep an eye out for me."

Still undecided on what career path he'd like to pursue, Turner hopes it will be sports-related.   

"I would like to pursue sports management, or something similar, and if it all goes well, all my mates and I will go to uni together.

“Hopefully I'm still working here as I like this place a lot."