🎓Careers

Year 10 – University Pathways Presentation

During their MyPath Careers lesson this week, Year 10 students attended a presentation from Edith Cowan University (ECU), Murdoch University and The University of Notre Dame Australia.

The session provided students with an introduction to:

• University course options and areas of study

• Campus life and student experience

• Pathways into university

• The benefits of further study after school

These presentations are an important part of the Year 10 program, helping students build early awareness of university as a pathway and begin thinking about their future options ahead of subject selection.

Year 11 – University and Pathway Presentations

Year 11 students participated in pathway-specific sessions designed to support their planning for life after school.

Students on a university pathway attended a presentation from Murdoch University, where they explored:

• Course options and areas of study

• University life and expectations

• Pathways into university

• Future career opportunities linked to different degrees

Students on a VET or workplace learning pathway received information from Mrs Johnson regarding workplace learning opportunities, apprenticeships and vocational pathways.

These sessions help students develop a clearer understanding of the pathway that best suits their interests and goals.

Year 12 – Course Planning and Pathway Development

Year 12 students continue to receive targeted support as they prepare for post-school pathways.

Students on a university pathway recently participated in a course visualiser session with Murdoch University, where they were able to map out potential undergraduate degrees and explore course options across a range of universities.

Students a VET or workplace learning pathway received further information about workplace learning, apprenticeships and employment pathways.

The Careers team continues to meet individually with Year 12 students to support their pathway planning and decision-making.

Performing Arts Pathways – WAAPA Information Session

Students from all year groups who are interested in performing arts attended a lunchtime session focused on pathways into the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).

This session provided valuable information about:

• Performing arts courses and career pathways

• Application and audition processes and requirements

• Opportunities at the new ECU City Campus

Career Spotlight – Aviation Pathways (Pilot and Aviation Careers)

Aviation is an exciting career area that includes roles such as commercial pilot, defence pilot, air traffic controller, aircraft engineer and ground operations.

Pathway 1 – Civilian Flight Training (Primary Pathway)

The main pathway to becoming a pilot is through a registered flight school.

Typical pathway:

• Complete Year 12

• Begin private flight training

• Progress through licences (Private Pilot Licence → Commercial Pilot Licence)

• Build flight hours to gain employment

This pathway requires a significant financial investment, and students should carefully research costs and training providers.

Pathway 2 – University Aviation Degrees (Supporting Roles)

Universities may offer aviation-related degrees such as:

• Aviation Management

• Aviation Operations

These courses do not train students to become pilots, but can lead to careers in:

• Aviation management

• Airline operations

• Airport management

• Aviation safety and logistics

Pathway 3 – Australian Defence Force (ADF)

The ADF provides a pathway to become a pilot through the Air Force, Navy or Army.

Benefits include:

• Fully funded training

• Salary while training

• Structured career pathway

Entry is highly competitive and involves academic, aptitude and medical requirements.

Other Aviation Careers

Students interested in aviation may also consider:

• Aircraft maintenance engineer

• Air traffic controller

• Ground operations and logistics

• Aviation safety roles

Advice for Students

Students interested in aviation should:

• Research pathways early

• Understand training costs and requirements

• Explore Defence Force opportunities

• Speak with the Careers team for guidance

Important Reminder – University Open Days

Students and families are strongly encouraged to attend upcoming university Open Days.

This weekend:

• UWA Open Day – Sunday (10:00am – 3:00pm)

Next weekend:

• Curtin University – Saturday (10:00am – 3:00pm)

• Murdoch University – Sunday (10:00am – 3:00pm)

Further upcoming dates:

• ECU (Southwest Bunbury) – 3 May 2026

• ECU City Campus – 9 August 2026

• Notre Dame – 2 May 2026

Open Days provide an excellent opportunity to explore campuses, speak with staff and students, and gain a better understanding of courses and career pathways.

Career Tools Reminder

All students have access to Career Tools, which provides information on careers, university courses, and pathway planning.

Students are encouraged to continue using Career Tools at home to support their career exploration.

Students and families are encouraged to contact the Careers team for guidance and support with career and university pathway planning.

Here is the March issue of In Focus Careers News for 2026. There is plenty of news so please have a good read and enjoy!

Tyrone Tuohy

Careers Counsellor