Careers
Athena Aligizakis
YEAR 9
Students completing work experience for the Business for Trades Program need to request an online form to be sent to them. Please see instructions and information on our new digital forms below in the Year 10 section of this newsletter.
YEAR 10
For students organising a second week of work experience during Central Australia week 22-26 June 2026:
NEW DIGITAL WORK EXPERIENCE AND STRUCTURED WORKPLACE LEARNING FORM
Work experience and structured workplace learning are an important part of our career education program at Lilydale Heights College. It helps students to explore potential jobs, understand workplace expectations and make informed education and career choices. Our school has introduced a new digital work experience and structured workplace learning form to simplify the process and save you time. It replaces the paper form we’ve used previously. You and your child can fill out and sign the form online at your convenience from a mobile phone or computer. Digital work experience forms will be securely stored and handled in compliance with records management policies and Victorian privacy laws.
Process for digital forms
A digital form will be created when a work placement has been organised for your child.
Once the placement details have been completed by the student, and if your child is under 18, parent/guardians will receive an email with a link to review and sign the form.
A quick reference guide can be sent to students to explain the process.
If your child is under 18, a copy of the completed form will be emailed to you for your records.
Many thanks for supporting our work experience program. We are looking forward to an exciting year of work experience opportunities for all our students. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you require any further assistance at:
Courtney Jordan, Careers & Pathways Coodinator, courtney.jordan@education.vic.gov.au
Athena Aligizakis, Careers Practitioner, athena.aligizakis@education.vic.gov.au
RANGES TEC VET TASTER EVENINGS
VET Taster Evenings
Hands-on taster session - Students choose two VET courses. This will be held on 22 July and 5 August
https://www.rangestec.vic.edu.au/vet-taster-evening/
CIRE
New course 2027
CIRE will offer Certificate II Animal Care based in Lilydale from 2027.
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAMS
Day in the Life of a Medic/Nurse: Bandiana
Bandiana VIC / Tuesday 4 August
A one day immersive experience into the lifestyle and career opportunities available within the Medical trades in Defence
Lunch will be provided, however students must make their own way to and from the Albury Wodonga Military Area
Online applications close 7 June 2026
For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Day in the Life of a Medic/Nurse: Bandiana (August)
Army Trades Familiarisation (Engineering, Electrical and Health): Bandiana
Bandiana VIC / Wednesday 5 August
A one day opportunity to interact with Army personnel and gain insight into opportunities available for Electrical, Mechanical and Medical trades within the Army
Lunch will be provided, however students must make their own way to and from the Albury Wodonga Military Area
Online applications close 7 June 2026
For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Army Trades Familiarisation (Engineering, Electrical and Health): Bandiana (August)
Exercise First Look: Indigenous Youth Placement
Bandiana VIC / Monday 24 to Friday 28 August
This program is specifically for young people of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage aged 15-18 (Years 10-12)
During this five‑day, four‑night residential program, students will experience an immersive introduction to Army life at the Army Logistics Training Centre in Bandiana
Army will book and pay for transport from the closest transport hub from the participant’s home location to attend the activity. Meals and accommodation during the program will also be included
Online applications close 12 July 2026
For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Jobs List - Defence Work Experience Program
Army Familiarisation: Puckapunyal Military Area
Puckapunyal VIC / Monday 12 – Thursday 15 October 2026
This work experience program will run over 4 days and will introduce students to career opportunities with various Army Units including Artillery, Armour and Transport
This is an overnight program where meals and on base accommodation will be provided at no cost to successful applicants
Online applications close 9 August 2026
For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Army Familiarisation: Puckapunyal (October)
YEAR 12
VTAC
VTAC COURSE LISTS BY AREA OF STUDY NOW AVAILABLE
To support students and careers practitioners with course discovery, a list of VTAC courses by Australian Standard Classification of Education (ASCED) field (field of interest) is now available. Students and careers practitioners can access an online list of courses with filtering available by ASCED field, providing a clear overview of courses aligned to specific areas of study.
UNIVERSITY/TAFE OPEN DAYS 2026
https://vtac.edu.au/opendays.html
Students who are planning to apply to Medicine, Dentistry and Clinical Science degree programmes commencing in 2027 at these universities in Australia and New Zealand are required to sit the UCAT ANZ 2026.
The UCAT ANZ is a multiple-choice, computer-based test sat in test centres in Australia, New Zealand and worldwide. Testing is held from 1 July – 5 August 2026.
The UCAT ANZ Essentials page provides an overview of the process.
Booking dates and deadlines - Bookings are open on the UCAT ANZ website.
Late booking deadlines and other key dates are given here.
Test Format
The test consists of four separately timed sub-tests in multiple-choice format: Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning and Situational Judgement. More information is given here.
Preparation Resources are available on the UCAT ANZ website.
Note that the UCAT ANZ Consortium does not work with or endorse any commercial preparation providers offering UCAT ANZ preparation. We strongly advise candidates to use the free official practice materials on our website and to be cautious about using materials and courses from other providers.
UCAT ANZ website
Please refer to the UCAT ANZ website for all information about the test: ucat.edu.au
UCAT – Med-Entry
Students interested in pursuing medicine and dentistry need to sit the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) in July/August 2026. MedEntry offers free resources, preparation materials and practice tests. Students can access significant discounts including for groups and those nominated by their teacher. For more information, please visit www.medentry.edu.au
STUDENTS CONSIDERING A CAREER IN MEDICINE
The Future Doctors Australia Program provides a unique, hands-on opportunity for students aged 14–18 who are passionate about a future in medicine. Over the course of four days, participants engage in sessions led by medical specialists, take part in practical activities and gain insight into the medical admissions process. Don’t miss this opportunity to help students gain first-hand experience and mentorship from medical professionals.
Melbourne (Docklands) 24-27 September 2026 14-17 January 2027
Enrolment Form (scroll to the bottom of the page)
MONASH UNIVERSITY
HES APPLICATIONS FOR 2026 ARE NOW OPEN
Get a headstart on your degree by adding one or two units in your VCE exams. This opportunity will help boost your ATAR and give you extra credit points for your Monash degree.
Discover Monash’s newly launched events here
New Clayton Campus Accommodation Learn more here.
Monash Engineering Girls Program Learn more here.
ART, DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE
Monash Uni Folio Building and Design Experience Days - Register now
Join our creative experience days to gain a better understanding of different art mediums, design thinking approaches and architecture studios through hands-on workshops at our Monash Caulfield campus.
Dates: 30 June and 1 July 2026 Audience: Year 10, 11 and 12
RMIT UNIVERSITY
Early Offer Program - Update
RMIT has recently undertaken an extensive review of the Early Offer program. After careful consideration, Early Offer will no longer be offered for future intakes. Although this program has been discontinued, other equity access schemes remain open and are there to support your students to reach their goals at RMIT.
AUSTRALIAN CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY
New events to register for https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/events
GUIDED TOURS AND EVENTS AT ACU
Register here Guided Visits - Melbourne
Watch ACU Webinars on demand
Have you missed an online event and would like to catch up on the content covered? Watch our webinar recordings to get the latest updates:
Flexible study options for Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years)
Our online course offers greater flexibility to graduate, ready to shape moments that shape a lifetime. The course is open to school leavers and early childhood education and care diploma holders, with eligible diploma holders able to apply for full credit for first year units. By streamlining their course through summer and winter study, students can stay ahead of their degree and enter the workforce sooner.
New Bachelor of Arts majors and minors
Introducing an exciting new suite of arts majors and minors opening a world of possibilities. Building on our extensive range of subjects, students can follow their passions and explore new study options in sustainability, human rights, environmental humanities, medieval and early modern studies and mental health and society. Applications open August 2026.
Make a difference in the world
Students who are motivated to create positive change may find a strong pathway in studying human rights. ACU’s Bachelor of Human Rights and double degrees with laws and criminology and criminal justice provide passionate students with a deeper understanding of human rights that is enriched by perspectives from law, philosophy and the humanities.
Interested in food, health and travel? Explore nutrition science
At ACU, our nutrition science degrees offer exciting short-term international study experiences (STISE) designed to inspire and inform students about their future profession. Students aged over 16 can follow all things nutrition and dietetics on Instagram @acu.nutritiondietetics.
Read about a nutrition science study tour in Bali
A new pathway into fitness industry
Students who complete the Diploma in Exercise Science are now eligible to apply for registration as a fitness professional with AUSactive: a nationally recognised accreditation giving them the credentials needed to begin work in the fitness industry right away. Students of this course may receive up to one year of credit and articulate into the second year of a range of exercise science and related undergraduate degrees at ACU. The Diploma in Exercise Science can also be completed as a standalone qualification.
Applications open for Semester 1 2027.
UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
Book a tour at a University Accommodation Residence
Want to visit Lisa Bellear or Little Hall? You can book a tour for a day and time that suits you. Make booking
DEAKIN UNIVERSITY
The Deakin Guaranteed ATAR
This year we have made more improvements to the Deakin Guaranteed ATAR, with more opportunities for students from under-represented cohorts to study at Deakin. We are offering lower guaranteed ATARs for eligible Australian Year 12 students across most undergraduate courses, with the Deakin Guaranteed ATAR set on average 10 points below the lowest selection rank.
https://www.deakin.edu.au/study/access-programs/deakin-guaranteed-atar
Support for high school students
Information Technology at Deakin
New courses
- Double Degree in Law/Psychology
- Double Degree in Engineering/Sport Science
- Bachelor Digital Marketing and Advertising
LATROBE UNIVERSITY
Aspire Early Entry program is now open
https://www.latrobe.edu.au/study/aspire
OUTDOOR SPRING HOLIDAY PROGRAM
Experience Outdoor and Sustainability Education – Latrobe University
Love the outdoors? Latrobe is offering Year 10, 11 or 12 students the chance to join us for a significant experience that might just alter your future goals. With La Trobe’s Outdoor & Sustainability Education Spring Program, you’ll experience Gariwerd (Grampians) while bushwalking over several days and nights. Choosing the right university course is one of the biggest decisions you'll make — and they want to help you get it right. Students will experience what it's like to be an Outdoor and Sustainability Education student at La Trobe. You'll connect with university and secondary school students from across the country, explore their internationally recognised program and discover how a career in outdoor and sustainability education could be the perfect fit for you. Join them these September-October school holidays for five days of bushwalking led by final year La Trobe Outdoor and Sustainability Education students and staff.
***Please note there is a $150 contribution for the associated costs of food and transport.
Dates: 28 September – 2 October 2026
Duration: Five days
Location: Gariwerd (Grampians) National Park
CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY
Charles Sturt Advantage early entry program open now
Applications are now open for Round 1 of the Charles Sturt Advantage (CSA) early entry program, following another year of significant growth. In 2025, CSA received more than 4,300 applications, an increase of over 30 per cent. This reflects strong trust in early-entry pathways and the strength of regional higher education. CSA allows students to secure an offer for their preferred course as early as September, recognising Year 11 results and personal strengths alongside academic achievement — affirming that potential extends far beyond the ATAR.
SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY
Early Entry Program open.
Swinburne’s Early Entry Program is back for the 2027 intake, with applications opening in May 2026. We have a range of ATAR-free entry bachelor and packaged pathway options available for Year 12 students, including those completing VCE VM or unscored VCE.
New in 2027
This year, Swinburne is updating the experience with a simplified student questionnaire so we can better understand students’ goals, interests and learning styles. To make things easier for our school contacts, we’ll also be upgrading to a digital form to make it easier for the school recommendation to be completed via mobile or web. We’ll provide more information about the process when applications open in May. Conditional offers will be issued from September 2026 onwards.
Study Expos (Wantirna, Hawthorn, Croydon campuses)
30 April – 2 May 2026 VCE and Careers Expo
13–15 May 2026 Victorian Careers Show
27 May 2026 Wantirna Study Expo
2 June 2026 Hawthorn Study Expo
10 June 2026 Croydon Study Expo
VICTORIA UNIVERSITY
VU EARLY ENTRY NOW OPEN
The VU Early Entry program has officially launched - and with it, a suite of exclusive benefits designed to empower you as you take your next steps. The program focuses on reducing stress, building confidence, and giving students an early edge as they unlock a range of perks to make the end of high school smoother, and their next move clearer.
Year 11 students get:
A free ATARNotes+ subscription (valued at $249)
Automatic entry into prize draws throughout the year - just by applying
Free 30-use pass for two at any VU campus gym
And even more perks for Year 12's, with all of the above plus:
An early Conditional Offer* into a VU course, before exams and results
Five bonus ATAR points for eligible courses
Eligibility for a chance to receive one year of free accommodation, or $5,000 in scholarship funds
One-on-one course advice, including an exclusive hotline just for them at preference time
And don't forget, applying doesn’t lock you into a course – you’re always free to update or change your preferences later.
NEW COURSE – BACHELOR OF CHIROPRACTIC SCIENCE
https://www.vu.edu.au/courses/bachelor-of-chiropractic-science-hbcs
VU is excited to announce a new course offering - our Bachelor of Chiropractic Science. This degree, which will be paired with the Master of Chiropractic Science, will equip students to become qualified for a rewarding career as a Chiropractor. Applications are now open for start in Semester 1, Block 3
FEDERATION UNIVERSITY
Programs Early Offer Program now live with new $2K Fedstart Scholarship
Our Early Offer Program is now live. We just launched our FedStart Scholarships (30 available), exclusively to Year 12 (domestic) students who receive an Early Offer. Each successful recipient will receive $2,000 to help them get a head start on their university studies and support their future education and career goals. Applications will be assessed against two key criteria: Equity and Leadership. Early Offer Applicants will be emailed information about the scholarship including an application link, with applications closing 30 September 2026.
https://www.federation.edu.au/study/information/high-school-students/early-offer-program/
Diploma of Business and Sport – partnership with Melbourne City Football Club now available to apply via VTAC (Berwick).
Federation University Australia and Melbourne City Football Club have teamed up to launch a new Diploma of Business and Sport helping graduates kick off a dynamic career in sport. Graduates of the diploma will be eligible to apply for up to one year of university credit towards select undergraduate degrees at Federation.
Pathway to University: FAST program
FAST is for students who do not meet the academic requirements for entry to a degree or Higher Education Diploma at Fed. FAST is suitable for VCE-VM students, for students who complete Year 12, or VCE students who achieve an ATAR but do not achieve the pre-requisites for entry into a Fed degree.
Federation Access Studies: https://study.federation.edu.au/course/DFS0
Satisfactory completion of FAST will guarantee entry into a wide range of our undergraduate courses. Graduates will also receive credit for one university-level first-year subject (unit) in some degrees.
Pathway to University: NEW FAST PLUS program
Federation University have launched a new 12 month access program based in Berwick called FAST Plus. Designed for Year 12 EAL students, recent arrivals to the Australian education system, or anyone aiming for a supported transition into higher education, FAST Plus focuses on developing the communication, academic and professional skills needed for long-term success.
Federation Access Studies Plus: https://www.federation.edu.au/courses/dfl0-federation access-studies-plus-fast-plus/
TORRENS UNIVERSITY
Diploma of Clinical Exercise science
Accredited by AUSActive. On completion, students are eligible to register as a Personal Trainer or fitness professional with AUSactive, Australia’s peak industry body. Pathway into our Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Myotherapy).
New course 2027
Media Production & Communication
We’re preparing to launch a new Bachelor of Media Production and Communication, which will include a nested Diploma of Media Production pathway option. This course has been designed with creatively minded students in mind, particularly those interested in content creation, digital storytelling, podcasting, screen production and emerging digital media careers. The nested diploma pathway will also provide an accessible entry point for students who prefer staged progression into a bachelor qualification.
VICTORIA POLICE
If students are interested in becoming a police officer, but want to study a Criminology degree, this may interest them:
Monash University Bachelor of Criminology and Policing. Bachelor of Criminology and Policing | Victoria Police
Victoria Police organise sessions that students with their family have an opportunity to register and come along to ask questions and meet staff and members:
Information career sessions (webinars and in person). Find a Victoria Police career information session | Melbourne and regional
Other information:
Apply for a police officer or other Victoria Police pathways: Careers | Victoria Police
COLLARTS
Save the Date! Open Day – Saturday 29th August
Our Open Day for 2026 will be happening on Saturday 29th August. Students can enjoy detailed information sessions about our courses with academics and student advisors and discover what it’s like to be part of our creative community.
Register today: https://shorturl.at/zpIGh
AIT – ACADEMY OF INTERACTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Wondering why students choose to study at AIT?
From the moment you step onto campus, you’ll be surrounded by people who share your passion for design, animation, games, and technology, and who are just as driven to turn creative ideas into real career outcomes.
Here's what makes AIT Extraordinary:
Studio‑style learning: Learn in spaces designed to mirror real creative and tech workplaces
Industry‑experienced trainers: Be guided by professionals who actively work in the industries they teach
Collaborative community: Share ideas, feedback and inspiration with like‑minded creatives
Hands‑on projects: Build practical skills and graduate with a portfolio employers want to see
Support at every stage: From enrolment to graduation and beyond, you’re supported every step of the way
At AIT, your ideas don’t just exist, they grow. You’ll be challenged to think differently, push your creativity further, and develop the tools and mindset needed to be industry‑ready.
JMC ACADEMY
High School Holiday Workshops
We will be holding High School holiday workshops on Saturday, July 11th. Students will have the chance to come on campus, listen to a student panel, meet lecturers and partake in practical workshops in multiple creative fields. Bookings are now open!
Link - https://events.humanitix.com/jmc-school-holiday-experience-day
SAE INSTITUTE
Create for a Day – 2 October 2026
SAE invites future creators to Create for a Day, a one-day, hands-on workshop designed to expand your skills and get you working on inspiring creative projects in the fields of Animation, Audio, Film, Games, Music, Computer Science and VFX.
YEARS 10 - 12
Aspiring to Lead: Young Women Shaping the Future Event with ADF Careers Centre Melbourne
Expressions of interest are sought from students for an inspiring event with ADF Careers celebrating the leadership, resilience and achievements of women in the Australian Defence Force. This year’s event will feature powerful stories from current female military leaders and a dynamic panel of service members discussing the future of leadership and how young women can shape it. At this stage we are gauging interest only. This is not a confirmed event. Please email your interest to athena.aligizakis@education.vic.gov.au
ATTN: Year 9-12 students & parents whose children are considering a career in medicine
The Future Doctors Australia Program is coming up in Melbourne!
The Future Doctors Australia program provides a unique, hands-on opportunity for students aged 14-18 who are passionate about a future in medicine. Over the course of four days, participants will engage in dynamic sessions led by experienced medical specialists, take part in practical learning activities and gain valuable insights into the medical admissions process. This program is designed to inspire and equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed on their path to a medical career. Don’t miss this chance to help your students gain firsthand knowledge and mentorship from medical professionals who are shaping the future of healthcare.
*** Note there is a cost for the program, see links below for enrolment details and costs.
Melbourne (Docklands) 24 - 27 September 2026
Program Details | Fees | Enrolment Form
Photo gallery of previous programs
List of Medical Specialists & Clinical Staff Guest Speakers and Presenters
LCI MELBOURNE
FutureSprint: Different by Design
Presented by LCI Melbourne and Future Anything as part of Melbourne Design Week 2026, FutureSprint: Different by Design is a full-day hands-on program for high school students from Year 9 to 12 passionate about creativity, design, business and innovation. Through workshops in entrepreneurial thinking, design prototyping, brand strategy and pitching, students will tackle real world social and environmental challenges and present their ideas to an expert panel. Places are limited to ensure an engaging, hands-on experience for every participant.
Register now – FutureSprint: Different by Design
Emerge: Future Creators Art & Design Competition 2026
We're excited to share a wonderful opportunity for your students — Emerge: Future Creators Art & Design Competition 2026, hosted by LCI Melbourne. This free-to-enter competition invites high school students to submit an original digital artwork inspired by the theme Emerge — exploring ideas of new beginnings, transformation and creative expression. Students can enter in one of three categories: Art (Visual Arts and Photography), Communication (Graphic Design), Design (Interior Design) and Fashion (Fashion and Costume Design). This is a fantastic chance for your students to be part of a real gallery exhibition, gain hands-on experience from one of Australia's leading design institutes and connect with industry professionals.
The competition is open for submissions from now until Sunday 5 July at 11:59pm. Students should register their interest here and will be required to provide their full name, year level, school, chosen category, artwork title, a description of up to 50 words and their artwork in both high-res PNG and PDF formats. Please note that parent/guardian consent is required for students under 18.
Prizes: Category winners will receive a 20% scholarship toward an LCI Melbourne undergraduate course or Diploma, plus a creative prize pack.
All finalists: invitation to a 1.5-hour creative workshop on campus and display of their work in the Intermission Exhibition.
Your Future in Hairdressing Starts Here! 🌟 Future You Program
Get Creative These School Holidays! 🎨 Year 10-12 students, do you want to dive into the world of hairdressing? L'Oréal's FREE 3-day Future You program is happening during the school holidays! Learn about hair, colour, personal branding and gain practical skills directly from expert L'Oréal professionals (all with Working With Children Checks). It’s your chance for a real "taste of the industry"! Parental/caregiver consent is required. Ready to discover your future? Scan the QR code from the flyer below to register your interest today! Places are limited and filling fast.
YEAR 11 & 12
YOUR WORLD, YOUR VCE
These resources encourage students to choose a VCE pathway that suits their interests, skills and future goals.
New Resources
You can access the following resources from the Your World. Your VCE communication resources page:
Future Flex vodcast series – six vodcast (video podcast) episodes featuring industry experts, including MasterChef’s Poh, sharing career insights and inspiration
Future Makers mentoring videos – four videos featuring VCE VM students, graduates and business leaders, including Movida’s Frank Camorra and Rollie Nation’s Vince Lebon, sharing their experiences and career journeys
Vocational industry videos hosted by Millie Ford – six short videos about careers including video game design and robotics engineering. Millie is a well-known content creator
Rolling Stone live podcast video – a recorded podcast about careers in music and creative industries
JOY Media podcast series – four videos about the benefits of the VCE VM. Guests include a VCE VM student, parent and teacher.
VCE TUTORING