Careers News
Work Experience – Monday 3rd June to Friday 7th June 2024
It may seem early to provide the 2024 Work Experience dates but some applications are already open offering pretty amazing placements. Some organisations will advertise their work experience program on their website and others will require students to phone, email or visit the employer. You may want to use your contacts to ensure you have the best placement for you. This program can be a great opportunity to investigate a specific job or industry and develop a range of employability skills. Be sure to check out for opportunity in the newsletter as they come to hand.
5 work experience ideas for high school students who love cooking
Work experience is a fantastic way to get a taste of the culinary world and learn valuable skills along the way. If you need some inspiration, we have some work experience ideas for students who love cooking – read on.
Local restaurants or cafes
Imagine spending a week in a bustling restaurant kitchen, learning from experienced chefs as they whip up delicious dishes. Work experience in a local eatery can give you insights into kitchen operations, meal preparation, and the art of plating. You’ll gain exposure to different cooking techniques and might even have the chance to contribute to the creation of mouthwatering dishes.
Catering companies
Catering companies offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. From preparing finger foods for events to crafting elegant multi-course meals, you’ll get hands-on experience in a dynamic setting. Working with a catering team will teach you about menu planning, food presentation, and the importance of timing in the kitchen.
Bakeries and pastry shops
If you have a sweet tooth and a knack for baking, a bakery or pastry shop is the perfect place for your work experience. You’ll learn the art of making pastries, cakes, bread, and other delectable treats. Understanding the precision required for baking and the creativity involved in decorating will be valuable skills you can carry with you.
Cooking classes and culinary schools
Some culinary schools or cooking classes might offer opportunities for students to assist during workshops and classes. This immersive experience can expose you to a variety of cuisines, cooking methods, and interaction with fellow cooking enthusiasts. It’s a great way to enhance your skills and learn from experienced chefs.
Nutrition and meal planning
If you’re interested in the nutritional aspect of cooking, work experience with a nutritionist or a meal planning service could be a fantastic opportunity. You’ll gain insights into crafting balanced meals, understanding dietary restrictions, and creating meal plans that cater to specific health goals. This experience bridges the gap between cooking and wellness, offering a holistic perspective on the culinary world.
Remember, work experience is all about learning, so don’t be afraid to ask questions, observe closely, and take notes. Each day presents a chance to absorb new knowledge and build connections with professionals in the culinary industry.
Find out more about work experience and search for placements here.
RBA Economic Update Webinar for High School Students
September 13, 2023
Aimed at students in Years 11-12, this webinar will feature an RBA economist sharing insights on monetary policy and current economic conditions. It’s a great opportunity for students to get the latest information about what’s happening in the Australian economy and pose questions to an RBA economist. Students and educators should register directly to attend this online event.
Deakin | Science and Environment School Experience Program
October 9 to October 13, 2023
The School of Life and Environmental Science would like to offer Year 10 students with an interest in science and the environment, the opportunity to participate in this hands-on experience. The program includes a full day of engaging and interactive activities in the field of science and the environment. Students will get the opportunity to participate in activities such as water testing, vegetation surveys, protein analysis, food chemistry and molecular biology.
International Short Story Writing Competition ’23
We’re looking for short stories! Think you can write a winning story in 1,500 words or less? Enter GEMA’s International Short Story Writing Competition today!
If you are a writer aged 18 or younger and wanting to get published, participate to see your work published in book form, distributed globally, and win trophies, medals, Kidzania passes, free access to GEMA’s creative writing program, and certificates!
Entries are open now and close 8 October.
Find out more and enter here.
Let’s consider all the possible jobs which have yet to be created that could come about as a result of the evolution of AI; and there’s likely to be a lot!
Here are a few examples:
AI Ethicists/Transparency Advocates
You could be the person providing human assessments of AI systems, monitoring them for bias, fairness, and potential social impact, ensuring that technology serves humanity responsibly.
Virtual Reality Architects
They could be designing immersive digital environments for education, entertainment, therapy, and more as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) develop. You’d need skills in design, technology, and psychology to create engaging and functional VR experiences.
Personal Data Brokers
They could be the mediators between consumers and organisations, negotiating data-sharing agreements while ensuring privacy and compensation.
Robot Behaviour Designers
People might be needed to model and fine-tune robot behaviours, ensuring safe and meaningful interactions. A combination of skills in psychology, engineering, and design could be important to create robots that respond appropriately to human cues.
Cybersecurity AI Analysts
This would be similar to existing cybersecurity roles, but more focused on developing AI systems or programs that proactively detect and defend against cyberattacks. You’d need to specialise in AI, programming, cybersecurity, and perhaps have background in understanding criminal minds too.
Elderly Companion Developers
You could be responsible for creating companions that can provide emotional support, reminders, and basic assistance to the elderly (ideally between human visits and interactions). Developers and programmers who also understand human psychology and aged care could be perfect for these roles.
Urban Farmers/Green Infrastructure Managers
In the future, we might combine traditional farming knowledge with AI-powered monitoring and optimisation. This could ensure sustainable food production to support growing populations, even in urban environments.
Stay positive
Try to ignore the media doom and gloom, continue to focus on identifying opportunities, developing diverse skill sets, and cultivating a mindset of lifelong learning. That way you’ll always be ready for changes and can easily adapt.
Remember that the high school students of today have the potential to become the innovators and problem solvers of tomorrow’s AI-enhanced world.
Clyde North – Robyn Cardamone rcardamone@stpeters.vic.edu.au
Cranbourne – Melissa Dillon mdillon@stpeters.vic.edu.au
Melissa Dillon & Robyn Cardamone
Careers & VET Coordinators