Career & VET Report
What’s On
Upcoming Events
VCE and Careers Expo 2024
May 2 to May 4, 2024
Australia’s biggest education and careers event is now in its 32nd year in a new, bigger venue!
Our exhibitors include:
- universities, TAFE colleges and training providers
- providers of VCE resources, information and services
- organisations with apprenticeship information and opportunities
- organisations with employment opportunities
- organisations with cadetship opportunities
- career advisers and student support services
- providers of tutoring services, lecture and study skills programs
- providers of international exchange and GAP year programs
- providers of youth services and programs
Attend seminars on topics including:
- VCE subjects
- Subject selection advice for Year 10 students
- Tertiary courses
- Careers
- Employment opportunities
- Study advice
- Gap year options
ANU | Early Entry Application Q&A
May 7, 2024
An opportunity to get your last minute questions about our direct entry application answered by staff from admissions and accommodation before applications close on 13 May 2024. They will answer commonly asked questions, and there will be time for you to ask your own – come prepared with any questions you might have!
Torrens University | Virtual Open Day
May 7 to May 9, 2024
Ready for the next step on your career journey? Join us online as our academics talk you through the courses on offer and how you can get the most out of studying with us. Learn about scholarships, internships and what sets us apart from other universities.
- Design and Creative Technology: Tuesday 7 May – 6 – 7pm (AEST)
- Health and Education: Wednesday 8 May – 6 – 7pm (AEST)
- Business and Hospitality: Thursday 9 May – 6 – 7pm (AEST)
AFP | Protective Service Officer online information session
May 7, 2024
Join us for an online information session on Wednesday 8 May at 6pm (AEST) where you will hear the lived experience of our PSOs and learn about the process to join.
You’ll also have an opportunity to ask the panel questions.
ACU | Talk with Physiotherapists, Exercise Scientists and High Performance Sport Professionals
May 7, 2024
Join us online to hear from ACU alumni about life after university. Take part in a Q&A session with our graduates and get an insider’s perspective on working in physiotherapy, exercise science and high performance sport.
Monash | Discover Nursing and Midwifery
May 8, 2024
Discover what it’s like to study Nursing and Midwifery at Monash. Join us for an informative session where we’ll discuss the course structure, placement opportunities and course outcomes. Our students and graduates will be online to provide insights into their own experiences as well.
University of Newcastle | Joint Medical Program Webinar
May 8, 2024
The Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (The JMP) is an innovative five-year degree delivered jointly with the University of New England and supported by Hunter New England Local Health District and Central Coast Local Health District.
Join us for an info session to hear from Joint Medical Program academics and current students about the program, admission requirements and much more.
NIE | Pathways into Medicine and Dentistry Live Webinar
May 8, 2024
This forum is an excellent opportunity for teachers, students and their parents to find out about the UCAT, pathways into medicine, and have all questions answered by an expert teacher who has been working in the field since 1999.
The session is packed with invaluable information during which we will be covering the following topics, and more:
- What is UCAT? UCAT scores? UCAT Sub-tests?
- Year 10, 11 and 12 – things to consider now.
- The Undergraduate Selection Criteria
- Application process into universities for medicine and dentistry
- When and who can sit the UCAT
- GAMSAT
- Can you prepare for the UCAT?
- Undergraduate interview process
- What, how and why about Gap Year?
- Alternative degrees and career choices
- Work experience advice
- Q & A
RMIT | New Career Ahead: Explore the Possibilities Series 1/3
May 8, 2024
Join us for the first instalment in an immersive workshop series where we unlock the power of self-reflection and guide you through navigating your career journey with confidence.
Dive deep into the key aspects of self-reflection to make informed decisions about your career path. Explore your values, strengths, and aspirations, aligning them with your professional goals.
During this session, we’ll provide a practical application focused on understanding your personality using the RIASEC code. Learn how this code can illuminate your preferences and guide your career choices. Gain insights into how your personality traits influence your career decisions and discover actionable steps to leverage this knowledge effectively.
You can either opt to attend this session online or in person at RMIT University Melbourne City Campus. The general public and RMIT students are welcome to attend.
ACU | Talk with Artists and Creatives
May 8, 2024
Join us online to hear from ACU alumni about life after university. Take part in a Q&A session with our graduates and get an insider’s perspective on working in the arts.
Monash | Discover Biomedical Science and Nutrition Science
May 9, 2024
Discover what it’s like to study Biomedical Science or Nutrition Science at Monash. Join us for an informative session where we’ll discuss the course structure, hands-on opportunities and career outcomes. Our current students will be online to provide insights into their own experiences as well.
Study Work Grow | Early Entry in 2024 - a PD session
May 9, 2024
Join Lucy from Study Work Grow for a Professional Learning session which looks at the Early Entry landscape in 2024.
This will be an interactive 30-minute session, with time for questions at the end.
Notre Dame | Doctor of Medicine Information Session
May 9, 2024
Join us for an online information session designed to provide you with crucial insights into Notre Dame’s Doctor of Medicine program. This webinar offers a unique opportunity to delve into the program’s structure, entry pathways, and exciting new developments.
UTS | Bachelor of Accounting (BAcc) Information Evening
May 9, 2024
If you are a high-achieving school leaver and believe you could be one of Australia’s future business leaders, then our Bachelor of Accounting and cooperative education scholarship program has been designed just for you.
The Bachelor of Accounting provides you with a multi-skilled accounting degree with a strong emphasis on both accounting and financial management, both essential business tools.
Come along to this webinar and meet current students, graduates, sponsors and staff of this elite program.
JMC Academy | May 2024 Open Day, Melbourne
May 11, 2024
Come and see why JMC Academy is Australia’s leading tertiary Creative Industries provider.
Things to do at Open Day:
- Tour our world-class facilities and tech
- Explore your creative future in our hands-on workshops
- Meet our current students and industry expert lecturers
- Check out live student performances
- See creativity come to life with course demonstrations
- Build your creative network
- Speak to student admissions
Collarts | Open Day 2024
May 11, 2024
At our Collarts On-Campus Open Day, we invite you to come and experience all things Collarts life: from our passion for creativity, close community, state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and more.
- Up-skill in a creative workshop
- Learn more about the industry in a live panel
- Meet Collarts students and staff
- Visit one of our open campuses on the day
- Get an inside look into all our courses
UniMelb | Residential Colleges Open House 2024
May 11, 2024
Register to tour our ten Residential Colleges and visit the University during Open House on Saturday 11 May 2024. Each College has its own unique community spirit to explore and offers a supportive environment that will help you to make lifelong friends, build lasting connections, further your academic pursuits and experience unique opportunities.
During our Open House you will have an opportunity to:
- explore and tour our Residential Colleges
- hear from current residential students
- meet our academic and pastoral care staff
- learn more about our generous scholarship programs and College application process
- discover the best of Residential College social, cultural, sporting and leadership opportunities.
Each College will be running tours continuously throughout the afternoon on a regular basis. Please register and select which Colleges you intend to visit. You can also register for our general information session at 12noon or 3.30pm.
The Hotel School | Industry Insights, Melbourne
May 11, 2024
Join us for an exclusive behind the scenes look at life working in the hotel and event industry.
Gain insights of W Melbourne through the eyes of a hospitality and events professional. Find out what it is like to work in this dynamic environment by immersing yourself in the behind the scenes operations of a luxury hotel.
You are invited to this unique, fully interactive experience where you will meet professionals of key hotel departments and have an opportunity to understand their roles. This event is perfect for those wanting a better understanding of the complexities and depth of hospitality careers.
Girls Who Build – Let’s talk tools of the trade with ADCO’s Apprentice Carpenters & Site Supervisors
May 13, 2024
This session aims to empower young women to hear about the exciting Carpentry Apprenticeships and Site roles from our Women of ADCO. Learn about these roles and discover the vast array of career paths available in the dynamic construction industry. Hear inspiring stories from successful women in construction Learn about carpentry apprenticeships and site supervisor roles, explore educational pathways, and connect with professionals and peers who share your interests and aspirations.
STEAM Careers Online Forum - Biotech
May 13, 2024
This is a careers forum with purpose. Each semester, Science Gallery Melbourne will introduce your students to inspiring people who work to solve some of our most pressing global and local challenges that we as a community face.
Students will hear not only about career journeys and industry connections, but how these professionals work across science, technology, engineering, arts and maths and use a range of transferable skills in the ways they work to make a difference in the world.
In this edition of our STEAM Careers Online Forums, during National Careers Week and Victorian Education Week, we will focus on transdisciplinary careers relating to biotech, bioethics and more.
Register for you and your students to watch live or to see the recorded session in class time.
Important Future Events
Victorian Careers Show 2024
May 16 to May 18, 2024
The Victorian Careers Show, in its 4th year in 2024, follows on from the success of our flagship event, the VCE and Careers Expo.
Our exhibitors include:
- universities, TAFE colleges and training providers
- providers of VCE resources, information and services
- organisations with apprenticeship information and opportunities
- organisations with employment opportunities
- organisations with cadetship opportunities
- career advisers and student support services
- providers of tutoring services, lecture and study skills programs
- providers of international exchange and GAP year programs
- providers of youth services and programs
Attend seminars on topics including:
- VCE subjects
- Subject selection advice for Year 10 students
- Tertiary courses
- Careers
- Employment opportunities
- Study advice
- Gap year options
AIE | Open Day
May 25, 2024
Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Open Day on Sat 25 May 2024. This event will be held at AIE Campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Adelaide from 10am to 3pm.
AIE’s Open Day is a great opportunity to meet our teachers, staff and students. The day will cover everything you need to know about the:
- careers in games and VFX that we train students for;
- studios and industries that we work with;
- courses we offer – from beginners to professional mastery, and;
- the software, skills and knowledge we teach.
AIE’s Open Day will also include presentations on entry requirements and how to apply. Find out how AIE can get you into a creative career.
BiG Day In, Melbourne
May 30, 2024
Join us at The Capitol – RMIT University on Thursday 30 May for BiG Day In Melbourne. Bring your Year 9-12 students to learn where a STEM career can take you. Hear from organisations such as Wisetech Global, Adobe, Australian Signals Directorate & more to come.
VU | Careers for Young Women in Sport Forum
June 21, 2024
Keynote speaker Bianca Chatfield, alongside industry panel members including Susan Alberti AC and Kate Price, will help guide girls towards thriving sport careers. Be inspired by masterclasses covering Sport Performance & Rehabilitation, Sport Management & Business, and more.
This free event is designed for girls in Year 10 – 12 who aspire towards a career in sport.
The Hotel School | Melbourne Open Campus 2024
June 22, 2024
Join us for a day filled with excitement and exploration at our University Open Campus, where you’ll get to experience life as a student at The Hotel School. Here’s what awaits you:
- Experience studying at THS firsthand by participating in a special Masterclass
- Meet The Hotel School team and explore our diverse range of courses and application process
- Discuss career opportunities with the Work Integrated Learning team
- Connect with our current students and fellow attendees
- Enjoy light refreshments
Discover Exercise and Sports Science at ACU Melbourne
July 2, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
Experience the range of cutting-edge equipment for training and rehabilitation that you will have access to as part of a sport and exercise science degree with ACU.
Discover Allied Health at ACU Melbourne
July 2, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
Experience being an ACU student with workshops available for speech pathology, occupational therapy and much more. Gain access to the latest technology in our clinical facilities.
Discover Biomedical Science at ACU Melbourne
July 2, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
Take part in hands-on workshops, tour our facilities and hear from current students about a rewarding career in biomedical science.
Enter the World of Le Cordon Bleu Careers Residential, Melbourne
July 3 to July 5, 2024
We’re opening our doors to high school students in Years 11 & 12, to experience a ‘day in the life’ at one of the world’s leading culinary and hospitality institutions to provide a taste of what a future career in global hospitality will be like.
Meet lecturers and Le Cordon Bleu professionals, hear from industry experts, discover what Le Cordon Bleu hospitality management degree programmes involve and experience hands-on culinary arts with our chefs.
Discover Law, Business and Criminology at ACU Melbourne
July 4, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
All rise, interactive workshops are now in session. Learn about our law, business and criminology courses, and associated double degrees. Discover what it takes to become a respected and ethical corporate professional for the modern world.
RMIT | Tech and Trades Experience Day 2024
July 4, 2024
Come and discover RMIT – Register your interest for a spot at our free exclusive Hands-On Experience Day in your July school holidays!
You will have the opportunity to choose two interactive workshops from a Trades and Future technology areas in our Vocational Education programs.
Tailored for students in years 10, 11, and 12, along with their parents and guardians, this event promises an immersive day of exploration. Uncover your passions, gain valuable insights, and pave the way for a future filled with endless possibilities.
Discover Nursing at ACU Melbourne
July 10, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
Learn how nurses work at the forefront of patient care, and experience how they save lives by taking part in an interactive experience and explore our state-of-the-art simulation labs.
Discover Midwifery at ACU Melbourne
July 10, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
Experience being an ACU student for a day with access to cutting-edge equipment in hands-on workshops, run by our midwifery students.
Discover Paramedicine at ACU Melbourne
July 10, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
Take part in hands-on workshops, tour our facilities and hear from current students about a rewarding career as a paramedic.
AIT | Open Day
July 13, 2024
AIT’s Open Day is perfect for those wanting to explore the endless opportunities available in the growing creative industries. This fun and interactive day is a great way to get further information on our curriculum, course requirements and study pathways. Our friendly staff & students will also be there to talk to and get advice from.
On the day you can expect to:
- Learn about our degrees in film, 2D and 3D animation, game design, and IT.
- Hear more about careers and study paths.
- Take a tour of our campus.
- Lunch included on the day.
University of Sydney | Tahgara Program
July 15 to July 19, 2024
The Tahgara Program is an intensive week-long residential program at the University of Sydney, designed to prepare Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Year 12 students for their final exams and equip them for their journey into higher education.
Students attend workshops presented by exam markers, expert tutors, faculty academics, and university staff and students. Designed to build educational capacity and motivation, students participating in the Tahgara Program will experience an individually tailored program, guiding them through scholarship applications, university pathways, exam preparation, as well as receiving one-on-one subject specific tutoring.
There is no cost for the schools or families of students who participate in the Tahgara Program. The University of Sydney will pay for travel, meals, accommodation and all other expenses associated with the program.
This program is open to all Year 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from across Australia.
Free Money
Scholarships
University of Newcastle Ma & Morley Scholarship Program
Opens: July 1, 2024
Closes: September 30, 2024
The Ma & Morley Scholarship Program application process is designed so that a diversity of students have a fair opportunity to access this life changing experience.
There are a total of 20 scholarships available for new students.
Bond University CoLab Industry Scholarship
Opens: May 1, 2024
Closes: August 29, 2024
The Bond University Transformation CoLab is a game-changer, where we’ve broken down the traditional stand-alone silos of business, law, arts and sciences.
Our CoLab Industry Scholarships award a part-fee tuition remission scholarship to eligible students wishing to study one of the following Transformation degree programs:
- Bachelor of Digital Transformation
- Bachelor of Entrepreneurial Transformation
- Bachelor of Health Transformation
- Bachelor of Legal Transformation
Competitions
The 2024 Next Gen Awards
Opens: April 1, 2024
Closes: July 15, 2024
With so many young people leading projects in their communities, the Next Gen Awards have been created as an opportunity to showcase our next generation of young innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders across the country.
The Next Gen Awards features six award categories to acknowledge young people that are building their 21st-century skills, as well as the educators supporting them along the way.
2024 UNSW Bragg Student Prize for Science Writing
Opens: April 29, 2024
Closes: August 23, 2024
The UNSW Bragg Student Prize for Science Writing is a competition for Year 7-10 students in Australia.
In 800 words, describe some great community interaction with conservation and biodiversity. Your essay could cover:
- What is the best citizen science project – how does it work and how is it used? Examples include Frog ID, Birdwatch
- How is your school or local community involved in conservation?
- How are Indigenous values inherent in conservation practices?
- How do scientists work with communities in conservation research?
Study
University
On campus or online study – What’s right for you?
The past few years have seen a huge uptake in universities moving their learning online, and it’s an option that’s more popular and accessible than ever. But for some people, it’s not quite the same as being able to attend classes on campus. So what’s the best option for you if you’re looking to start studying at university soon – on campus or online?
There are both advantages and disadvantages to both, and at the end of the day the decision comes down to what will best suit you. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons to help you make up your mind.
On campus – Benefits
First, let’s take a look at the upsides of study on campus.
It’s easy to meet new friends
Studying on campus means you will have to meet a whole bunch of new people – whether you want to or not! But it’s also a great opportunity to make new friends, build important connections, or start a study group. It’s always nice to have people to talk to and study with to make life that little bit easier.
Easy access to resources
Being on campus gives you easy access to all of the resources the university has to offer: libraries, student support services, computer labs, study spaces, and even things like cafes and gym facilities. Everything you could possibly need is right there at your fingertips.
The schedule is done for you
It doesn’t matter if you don’t have the best time management skills, because your class times are all set for you. All you have to do is show up!
On campus – Downsides
Now that we’ve looked at some of the positives, let’s cover some of the reasons on campus study might not suit you.
The cost
Depending on how far away you live from your nearest campus, you might find yourself spending a lot of time (and money) commuting back and forth. Some universities have on-campus accommodation, but this can also be costly. And if there is no university near you, you’ll have to spend a lot of money moving away from home.
The time commitment
Studying full-time on campus means that you will be spending most of your time at university. This doesn’t leave much time for other things like work. If you need to rely on your income, this might not be the best option.
The rigidity
Having your schedule set for you can be good, but you might find that certain classes can conflict with other activities you have planned, such as sports and social time. And in most circumstances, going to class will be the option that wins. Sometimes you might even have two classes that clash, meaning you will need to choose between one or the other.
Online – Benefits
Thinking of studying online? Here are some of the reasons it could be right for you.
The flexibility
When you study online, you can generally set your own pace. You can take as long – or as little – as you need on a certain topic. You can also choose when to study. If you’re an early riser, you can study in the morning, and if you’re more of a night owl, then you can study at night instead. It also gives you the flexibility to fit your study around other commitments, such as work.
Minimal disruption
Even if there is no university campus nearby, studying online means you don’t have to move away to access top-notch education. This could save you heaps of money in travel expenses and accommodation (and you don’t have to shift your whole life half way across the country).
Meet people from all over
Studying online isn’t necessarily lonely – you will often be able to chat to your other classmates and lecturers virtually, either by video or text. You can meet people from all over the country and even overseas, giving you a broader perspective during your studies.
Online – Downsides
Finally, let’s cover some of the not-so-good things about online study.
Requires serious time management skills and discipline
Studying at your own pace can be a blessing – or it can be a curse. If you’re the kind of person who’s more likely to stay in bed and get distracted scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, online study might not be the best option.
Less access to resources
Depending on where you live, you might not have access to a library in town. Or perhaps you still live at home with younger siblings and your house is often crowded and noisy, making it difficult to study. At times like these, it’s nice to have certain facilities on-hand at campus.
No face-to-face contact
Even though you will still chat regularly with your lecturers and other students, it can still be lonely for some people without proper face-to-face time with friends. Be careful not to get sucked into the trap of never leaving your house either! Having support and connections through other means (family, other friends, etc) is still important.
The final verdict
At the end of the day, which study option is best for you is a personal decision. There are a lot of things you need to take into consideration, and what’s right for one person might not be right for you.
But here’s something else to consider: a lot of universities also offer flexible or blended study modes. This means you can combine both on campus and online study to suit your needs. And there’s nothing from stopping you trying one out – you can do your first semester online, and if you find it isn’t quite working for you then you can swap to on campus for the second, or vice versa.
Whatever path you choose, have fun with your studies and remember that you always have options.
You can read more about university on our website here.
Study Tips
9 motivational tips for remote learners
Studying from home might seem like a holiday…or maybe it’s a bit daunting. Either way, if you need some tips to help keep you motivated each day and stay on track with your studies, we have some ideas that could help. Here are our top motivational tips for remote learners.
Set up your study space
Firstly, you’re going to need a space in the house where you can really knuckle down, focus, and get your work done. It’s best if it’s located in a quiet area that allows you to concentrate on your tasks without distraction. You’ll also need a device with access to the internet and a word processing app (such as Word or Google Docs).
Don’t forget to make it comfy too! A good chair, the right lighting, and an ergonomic desk can really make all the difference.
Connect with other students
Even though you’re studying from home, you don’t have to be alone. Join any groups that your teacher or lecturer has set up and stay in touch with your classmates. You can ask them for ideas or help, share your accomplishments, or just make some new friends.
Be patient
You’re learning something new, just like all the other students in your class. And if you’ve never engaged in remote learning before, this means you’re technically learning another new thing too. But that’s totally OK, and your teachers or lecturers completely understand.
Remember, other students are learning and adapting too, so you may not get answers as quickly as you would like. In the meantime, try asking your parents, searching online, or asking members of your study groups if they can help.
Reward yourself
A little treat can be a great incentive to get your work done. It doesn’t have to be anything big – once you’ve achieved your goals for the day, you could:
- Watch a bit of your favourite show
- Treat yourself to a movie
- Enjoy some food that you’ve been craving
- Get outside for some fresh air and exercise
- Organise a phone or video call with a friend or family member
- Spend a bit of time on your favourite hobby
- Read a great book
- Soak in a bubble bath
Conquer procrastination
Are you actively choosing to do something other than work you’ve scheduled? Sidelining the subjects or assignments you don’t want to tackle and only taking the easier options? Spending longer than you should on other tasks so you’ll run out of time to do the thing you’re avoiding? Taking unscheduled breaks because you just need that drink so much right now?
If you answered yes to any of the above, then you’re probably procrastinating. But what can you do about it? Well, you could:
- Tackle the work you’d least like to do first thing and get it out of the way. This method is the most tricky, but also the most effective.
- Assign a monitor and ask someone to check up on you. It could be a parent or carer, sibling, or friend. Tell them what you need to get done and give them permission to keep you on track – even if they have to nag you.
- Keep a daily ‘to-do’ list and check off each item as you go. This can serve as a visual reminder of how much you’ve achieved and what you still have to accomplish.
- Break down tasks. When something seems too big or challenging, split it into chunks that seem less daunting, then set deadlines for each.
- Be realistic. Don’t try to achieve too much in one day or place too much pressure on yourself – just do your best.
Build a great relationship with your teachers
Your teachers or lecturers want you to succeed and are happy to help you out, so don’t be afraid to ask them when you need help or advice, and let them know if you are struggling. Even if they can’t help, they might still be able to point you in the direction of student support services or suggest other places you can find help.
Work with your energy levels
When you’re scheduling your work, set your hours according to your energy levels. We’re all different; some of us work better in the mornings, some later in the day. Some of us need a big break early in the day, and some of us prefer a longer lunch.
This is one of the benefits of remote learning: you schedule is flexible and you can adjust it to suit your habits and preferences (just as long as you don’t treat every day like a holiday, that is).
Stay positive
Just like going to class, there will be days you won’t be looking forward to, whether it’s because you’re not interested in the content or you just don’t feel like studying. Acknowledge that studying is hard work or that you feel fed up, but don’t let those temporary negative thoughts become your permanent identity.
Remind yourself that you can do this and that you will do this. Ask for help or let someone know you’re in a funk – a pep talk might be all you need to turn your mood around.
Have a little brag
Had a great day? Really challenged yourself? Got a big project done? Give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy your reward!
Also consider sharing your sense of achievement and pride. Tell family, friends, or your teacher or lecturer; let them celebrate with you and boost your sense of pride in what you’ve accomplished.
Find out more
Need more motivational tips for remote learners, or just want some handy study advice? You can read heaps more blogs on our website here.
Work
Job Spotlight
How to become a Zookeeper
Zookeepers care for animals living in captivity and on display to the public for the purposes of conservation and education. They carry out the jobs associated with the animals’ daily care, including feeding, training, and cleaning. They’re also responsible for keeping animals stimulated, supporting breeding programs, providing information to visitors, and assisting with any necessary vet work.
If you’d like to be a zookeeper, just loving animals isn’t really enough – you’ll need to be dedicated to caring for their every need and prepared to be very hands-on. If you’re practical, adaptable, and able to maintain high standards of safety and care, then a career as a zookeeper could be worth exploring.
What skills do I need as a zookeeper?
- Caring & dedicated
- Great team player
- Excellent communicator
- Hard worker
- Physically fit
- Adaptable & resilient
- Excellent problem-solver
- Level-headed & decisive
What tasks can I expect to do?
- Routinely check on animals & observe them
- Prepare diets to strict guidelines
- Clean & disinfect indoor & outdoor enclosures
- Ensure water & other essentials are supplied
- Provide training, enrichment & exercise
- Chat to zoo visitors & perform public talks
- Ensure animals are secure at all times
- Respond to & help with emergency situations
What industries do zookeepers typically work in?
- Arts and Recreation Services
- Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing
- Other Services
What Career Cluster do zookeepers belong to?
Because their job involves lots of hands-on work and they need to be adaptable and reliable, most Zookeepers fit in the Maker Cluster.
What kind of lifestyle can I expect?
As a zookeeper you’ll need to work outside typical business hours, including on weekends and holidays, as the animals need to be cared for every single day. It can be physically demanding work, which must be done on site and in all weather conditions.
Most zookeepers earn an average salary throughout their career.
Zookeepers are limited as to where they can work – you need to live near to a zoo and be prepared to compete for a job, as they are very highly sought after. Because of the hands-on nature of the job, remote work and working from home isn’t possible.
How to become a zookeeper
To become a zookeeper, you need to complete a relevant vocational training program – this can usually be done as part of an apprenticeship. Your training will involve learning about animal behaviour, nutrition, health, and welfare, as well as practical skills such as handling, grooming, and training.
Ongoing professional development and education throughout your career is also necessary to stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and best practices in animal care and training.
If you’re in high school now and are thinking of a career as a zookeeper in the future, here are some steps you could take:
- Find work experience or volunteer at a vet clinic, wildlife park, animal welfare organisation, wildlife rescue agency, pet shop, or animal grooming business.
- Practise your public speaking – most zookeepers are expected to interact with visitors and do presentations and performances.
- Get fit! You’ll need to be physically capable of doing the work and it is very hands-on.
Find out more here:
- World Association of Zoos and Aquariums
- Australasian Society of Zookeeping
- Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia
- Association of British and Irish Wild Animal Keepers
- American Association of Zoo Keepers
Similar careers to zookeeper
- Veterinarian
- Conservationist
- Wildlife Photographer
- Dog Groomer
- Animal Trainer
- Marine Biologist
- Park Ranger
- Field Researcher
Find out more about alternative careers.
Skills for Work
Critical thinking – Why is it vital in the workplace?
Lots of careers list critical thinking as a core skill that’s required in order to be successful. But what exactly is it, and how will you use it in your future career? In this blog, you’ll find out if you are a critical thinker, see examples of why you might need this skill in the workplace, and get tips on how to develop your critical thinking skills.
What does critical thinking actually mean?
Essentially, it means you can:
- learn to recognise or develop an argument,
- use evidence to support your argument,
- draw reasoned conclusions, and
- put your knowledge to use by using that information to solve problems.
Why critical thinking in the workplace is important
Employers want job candidates who can evaluate a situation using logical thought and offer the best solution. And if you have strong critical thinking skills, it’s likely you can do these things.
Critical thinkers in the workplace are more likely to understand the meaning behind their role, which increases the chances of them engaging with the work. Plus, critical thinkers can reduce wastage and increase productivity by analysing processes and identifying areas for improvement, be trusted to make decisions independently, and won’t need constant hand-holding.
Examples of jobs that require critical thinking
Wondering which careers you might need to flex your critical thinking skills in? There might be more than you think…
- Nurses working in emergency triage need to assess the cases waiting to be seen and decide who needs to be treated first.
- Plumbers need to evaluate what action needs to be taken, then decide on the best materials to do the job.
- Lawyers review evidence, refer to past rulings and laws, and come up with strategies to win a case or get the best outcome for their clients.
- When dealing with large quantities of goods and complex supply chains as a logistics manager, you’ll need strong critical thinking skills.
- As an accountant, clients will appreciate your critical thinking skills when you help them save and use their money productively.
- Managers need review customer feedback and use it to make changes or improve on their services and/or products.
- Software developers need critical thinking to design complex but efficient code, making programs easier for people to use.
- Thinking of becoming a doctor? You’ll need to use critical thinking skills to identify complex symptoms and ensure you’re providing the best possible care.
- Safety is incredibly important, so being able to think critically and identify any problems is crucial for occupational health and safety officers.
How to develop your critical thinking skills
Whenever you find yourself in a situation where you need to use your critical thinking skills, here are some steps you can take to practise:
Pinpoint the issue
What exactly is the problem that needs solving or the question that needs answering? By getting to the root of the problem, you can develop better and more thorough solutions.
Collect information
Next, do some research and collect data. Be sure to include sources that challenge your own opinions, and ensure you only use information from reliable sources.
Evaluate
Think about whether you’ve approached this exercise with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and done enough research. Then, reject any dodgy information, then make sure everything that’s left is actually relevant to the original issue.
Conclude and assess
Based on your work, create a couple of conclusions. Then assess each one for weaknesses and decide which one is the most sound.
Share your ideas
Communicating your findings to other people is the last – but most important – part of critical thinking. If you can’t effectively share your thinking or solutions, then you may have wasted your time.
How else can you become a better critical thinker?
One of the best ways to build your critical thinking skills is to actually work on your other core skills. In fact, you’ll probably hone your critical thinking skills without even knowing! Here are some critical thinking-related skills that can boost your employability even more:
- Observation – taking notice of what’s going on around you could help you to see opportunities and problems, as well as come up with solutions.
- Analysis – this could help you to gather the right information, understand it, and draw useful information from it.
- Communication – building active listening, teamwork, and presentations skills will ensure that you can share information in the best way.
- Problem-solving – learn to identify problems, find solutions and then, importantly, assess whether the solution is working or not
- Objectivity – this skill will allow you to really ‘see’ the information in front of you, rather than working from assumptions or your own personal bias.
Stepping outside your comfort zone, being inclusive, and saying yes to a variety of opportunities are all other great ways to help you build your critical thinking skills.
Find out more
You can read more about the skills you need for work on our website here.
Jobs & Careers
The changing world of work
The world of work is always changing. Not that long ago, you could have expected to walk away from school into a job in a factory or office and stay there for 45 years. These days, “job-hopping” is much more common – it’s predicted that Gen Z workers can expect have up to 16 jobs across their lifetime. And many jobs that existed even just 30 or 40 years ago are no longer necessary thanks to new technology.
In fact, technology is now moving at such a pace that we can expect work to look different again in just 5 years – but we can predict (to some extent) what will happen. So why is it important to think about how the world of work is changing, and how might it affect your future career path?
How is the world of work changing?
Since the 1970s, changes in government policy and organisational structures have kept the unemployment rate in Australia at around 7% on average. This means employers have more power over employees who may struggle to find work if they lose their jobs, and is part of the reason why people are willing to accept less secure work with fewer benefits, like gig work.
Advances in technology also mean that lots of the menial, repetitive tasks which used to be done by people are now handled by ever-more intelligent computers. Take the touch-screen ordering system at many fast food restaurants, or the self-serve checkouts at the supermarket – not so long ago these places provided many low-skill, entry-level jobs which are now being done by technology.
It’s not just low-skill jobs that are being affected. Law firms no longer need teams of junior lawyers and legal secretaries to comb hardcopy legal documents; they have automated databases which can be searched by keyword. Librarians are being replaced by online search systems, and pharmacy assistants are being replaced by robotic dispensing machines.
You’ll need your human skills
So if robots are taking over so many jobs, what’s left for us? Well, there are lots of things that robots simply can’t replicate (or at least not to a satisfactory standard) – these are jobs that require our human skills.
Human skills are skills that cannot be replaced by technology. Creativity, intuition, and innovation are human-specific, as are caring skills that help people feel comfortable. Mediators, teachers, nurses, and salespeople are just some examples of human-centric jobs that will always be needed in our workforce.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the future of work and the skills you’ll need, check out this video.
It’s not all doom and gloom
Sure, reading about this stuff can get a bit depressing, but it’s actually not a bad thing. As robots take over some of our dullest jobs, that frees us up to work in more satisfying roles. People in jobs that have been taken over by technology, such as factory line workers, are being supported to up-skill and find new work in other areas that give them more variety and challenges.
The other thing to remember is that most of us pivot at one point or another anyway. For example, apprentices become employees who might go on to start their own business, or manage a team of tradespeople – which requires vastly different skills to those they learnt as an apprentice. And people change jobs all the time; sometimes because we have to, but often because we get bored and want to find a new challenge.
If you’re interested in learning more about how often we change jobs, check out the FYA New Work Order Series for more details.
You don’t want to be a robot
It’s easy for technology to replace the jobs with lots of repetitive, predictable tasks, which is why factories thankfully no longer employ armies of small children and now look like something from a science-fiction movie instead. Working ‘like a machine’ isn’t a good thing – it’s boring, tiring, and never gets any better, so if there’s a robot that can do your job, it means you are free to move on to something else.
The loss of some jobs is being replaced by increased demand for human jobs at all skill levels – the huge outcry for more health and aged care workers is just one example. You can’t automate caring for other people or mediating conflict; these things require humanity, and jobs that require these skills are often highly rewarding too.
How does this apply to my future?
Not all of us will be negatively affected by the changes to the world of work. In fact, if you’re aware of what’s happening, you could use these changes to design a future that works for you – one where you don’t work like a robot doing the same thing every day.
The place to start is with the possible futures you can identify for yourself. Take each one, then analyse it through the lens of “will robots take my job?” You don’t need to guess – there is literally a website when you can ask this.
The safer your chosen job is, the less likely you’ll find yourself needing to pivot into something else down the track. If your chosen job is at high risk of automation, ask yourself what appeals to you about the job, and see if you can find other roles in similar areas that are less likely to be impacted.
Learn more
If you’re keen to learn more about the future world of work, you can read heaps of other blogs on our website here.
Grow
Gap Years
What a gap year really costs
Would you like to take a gap year, but are afraid you won’t be able to afford the costs? Or perhaps you’re really keen, but your parents are worried about the money and don’t want you ending up in debt.
These are both valid and sensible concerns! But if a gap year is what you really want and you have a plan in mind, you might be pleasantly surprised about how affordable some options are. Let’s take a look.
The nuts and bolts of gap year costs
Even if you’re already working and plan to live at home rent-free for the next 12 months, you’ll need a financial plan. Without one, you could fritter away all your hard-earned salary and not may not be able to achieve your goals at the end of your gap year. Unfortunately, the reality is travel, study, and gap year programs almost always have costs associated with them.
First, you need to figure out how much it’s going to cost you overall, and don’t forget to include the smallest details, because they all add up. Then, figure out how you’re going to be able to afford everything, and then some – running out of money half way through your gap year isn’t ideal.
If your parents or other family are helping you out, great! You still need to know what costs to expect, then plan a budget to make sure your money will last as long as it needs to. After all, their pockets are only so deep, so don’t expect constant top-ups.
Our biggest tip? Try to avoid getting into debt for a gap year. Ending your gap year with a lot of money owing (and don’t forget interest on top) could set your future plans back.
The three steps to gap year success
Keen to take a gap year, but unsure where to start? Here are a few simple steps to follow.
Plan
Work out what you want to do and where you want to go. You need these details first so you can work out how much everything will cost.
Budget
Once you know how much you need, write a clear budget that lists every item. You’ll need at least a fairly accurate estimate of your overall costs to ensure you save enough.
Save
Once you know how much you need, you can set some goals and start saving. Having a backup plan is usually also a good idea, just in case something unexpected happens or you change your mind.
Your gap year options
There are tonnes of different gap year options to choose from, and the costs vary between all of them. Even so, we’ve broken down a few different gap year options and the costs you can expect to be associated with each. Keep in mind these lists aren’t comprehensive and there may be other costs we haven’t included – at the end of the day, it’s up to you to create a thorough budget and prepare accordingly.
Travel
If you want to explore the world and broaden your horizons, travel is the quintessential gap year choice. Think of a travel gap year like a really long holiday – most of the costs are the same, just stretched out over a longer period of time. Here are some of the things you’ll need to include in your budget:
- Travel to, from, and between your destination/s
- Accommodation
- Food (and remember, you’ll probably be doing a lot of dining out)
- Daily travel (bus or train fares, bike or car rental costs, etc.)
- Tours and experiences
- Souvenirs and gifts
- Emergency money
- Pre-travel costs (passport fees, medical checks, visa applications, etc.)
Work
It might not seem like everyone’s idea of fun, but sometimes the only way you can afford a gap year is to combine it with a job. On the bright side, you’ll gain heaps of valuable skills, meet heaps of new people, and potentially end up with more money than you started with. It’s pretty common to combine travel with work, so as well as the above costs, here are some other things you might need to consider:
- Uniform and/or tools
- Travel to and from work
- Applying for a working visa (if working overseas)
- Income tax
Learn
A break from formal learning like school or university doesn’t mean you need to totally switch your brain off. Lots of people use their gap year as an opportunity to follow their passion or learn something they’ve always wanted to. If this sounds like something you might like to do, here are some costs you might need to prepare for:
- Course or workshop fees
- Materials and/or tools
- Travel costs
Specialised programs
There are heaps of providers out there that offer ready-to-go gap year packages, making the planning process a breeze – all you need to do is sign up, pay the fee, and get ready to go! The overall costs of these programs vary wildly depending on lots of factors, like what’s involved, where you’ll go, how long the program is, and even the provider themselves. Your upfront costs are usually high, but generally you don’t need to worry about ongoing costs during the program, as things like accommodation, meals, and travel are covered. This makes them a great ‘set-and-forget’ option (if you can afford the initial fees). Your costs typically include:
- Program fees
- Connecting travel (e.g. from your hometown to the city the program departs from)
- Optional experiences not included in the program fees
- Souvenirs and gifts
- Emergency money
- Pre-travel costs (passport fees, medical checks, visas, etc.)
Think outside the box
Need a bit of extra help meeting your savings goals? Apply for money towards your time out. There are scholarships and grants on offer through some providers or external organisations. If your application is successful, you could receive money to put towards your program fees, or receive a bit extra to use how you’d like.
It’s always worth having a chat with government services too. They won’t be dishing out money for nothing, but if you’ll be volunteering or earning below a certain threshold during your gap year, there could be some financial assistance you’re eligible for.
And if all these options still feel out of reach, there are lots of other ways to have a great gap year too. You could travel locally, find work experience or volunteer, or even just take some time out to relax, refresh, and do some self-improvement. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
Want more?
If you want more information about opportunities or how to plan your gap year, head over to our page, or grab a copy of our Gap Year Guide from the bookshop.
Goal Setting
Setting achievable goals
When it comes to setting goals, the sky’s the limit, right? But there’s a difference between setting goals that sound good, and ones that are actually achievable.
If we set achievable goals, we’re much more likely to follow through and complete them. That’s not to say you can’t aim high – but you need to remember to be realistic at the same time. So what goes into setting achievable goals? Let’s take a look.
Are you willing to work for it?
This is probably the most important question to ask yourself. More often than not, achieving our goals requires us to put in a bit more effort than usual. If you’re not willing to do that, chances are you won’t reach your goal.
For example, if your goal is to get As for all your subjects, but you don’t want to do any more study than you do now, chances are your goal is not achievable.
Is it compatible?
For your goal to be achievable, it also needs to be compatible with other parts of your life, and any other goals you might have set. Think about whether you live in the right place, if you have enough money, or whether you have any other important commitments that might hinder your progress.
Is it realistic?
Of course, you need to make sure your goals are realistic. If you’re already 16 and have never played sport in your life, making it to the Olympics by the time you’re 20 is probably not realistic. While it’s important to dream big, you also want your goals to be realistic, or else you might end up feeling let down if you can’t achieve them.
Setting yourself up for success
If you’ve gone through the above questions and haven’t run into any problems, chances are you’ve set an achievable goal.
Remember, just because a goal doesn’t fit in with your life right now doesn’t mean you can’t go back and revisit it in the future. Or maybe you need to consider working on some smaller goals to make your way up to a big one – if you want to run a marathon in 2 months’ time but are very unfit, make your goal to run just 1k, then 5k, and so on, until you feel ready to achieve your big goal.
Find out more
We have heaps of other blogs on goal setting you might like to check out on our website here.