Years 10-12 

10 - 12 Key Date

Former Student Nic McCallum Shares FIFO Career Journey with Year 10s

This week, Year 10 students had the opportunity to hear from former Charlton College student, Nic McCallum, who returned to share his experiences working in the FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) industry.

Nic reflected on his time at school in Charlton and the steps he took that shaped his career. He began by completing VET Automotive (Certificate II) before taking on a School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SBAT) while working through VCAL. From there, Nic achieved his Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology, and later gained Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to obtain a Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology.

These qualifications provided the skills and experience needed to enter the mining industry, where Nic has now been working as a FIFO Diesel Mechanic for the past 12 months. He explained to students what life in the mines is like, including the routines, challenges, and rewards of FIFO work.

Nic encouraged students to make the most of local opportunities such as VET and SBAT programs, showing how they can be stepping stones to national and even global career options. His journey highlighted that starting in a small community doesn’t limit big ambitions.

The Year 10s valued hearing Nic’s story and were inspired by how determination and practical learning can open doors to exciting and diverse futures.

CHES - Leigh

On Monday, I attended my second CHES seminar in Melbourne where I met law students and lecturers from Latrobe University. I learnt the fundamentals of law and criminology and also learnt how a murder case would be run in Australia courts. I took away a lot of important information that will help me in the future with scholarships, choosing universities and critical thinking in my day-to-day life.

VCE Holiday Revision Lectures 

Over the holidays and into Term 4, our students have VCE revision lectures happening. Some will be online, some will be here at school with their teachers. Each subject looks a little different — and it’s up to your child, in partnership with their teacher, to know what’s happening.

Here’s what you can do to support them:

• The timetable matters. Your child already has a revision timetable. Ask to see it. Then, make sure they’ve printed a few copies and stuck them up around the house — the fridge, their bedroom, maybe even near the front door.

• Reminders are powerful. Encourage them to put every session into their phone calendar with alerts. That way, they don’t miss anything.

• Make it a team effort. Create a shared family note or calendar with the key dates so everyone’s on the same page.

   

Now, let’s talk study routines. The best revision schedule isn’t just about cramming — it’s about balance. Your teen should be fitting study around work, family, rest, and exercise. That balance is what keeps motivation high and prevents burnout.

Want some solid tips to back this up? Check out:

VCE Exam Timetable: Important Dates: Plan Smart, Study Smart.

Your exam timetable isn’t just about when to show up — it should shape your study timetable too.

• Check the start time of every exam now.

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early on the day — no excuses, no stress.

• Know the rules about late admission. If you’re late, you may not be allowed in.

Here’s the move: map out your exams, then build your study blocks around them. The clearer the plan, the calmer you’ll feel walking into each room.

What Am I Allowed To Take Into My Exam?

Here’s the deal: Exam Supervisors have the right to check everything your child brings into the exam room. If it’s not allowed, it will be removed — no exceptions.

That’s why it’s critical that you and your child read through the link below together. Know exactly what’s permitted and what’s not.

Why this matters: The rules can change depending on the subject. What’s fine for one exam might be off-limits for another. Don’t leave it to chance.

So — take five minutes, go through the list with your child, and set them up to walk into every exam calm, prepared, and confident.

Careers and Pathways 

YEAR 12 REMINDERS

Federation University Early Offer Close 1st December

www.federation.edu.au/study/information/high-school-students/early-offer-program

Latrobe ASPRE Academic Impact Close 30th Sept  www.latrobe.edu.au/study/aspire/academic-impact 

Swinburne Early Entry Program Close 28th November

www.swinburne.edu.au/courses/planning-your-future/early-entry-program/#ready-to-apply 

Victoria University Early Offer Close 13th October

www.vu.edu.au/study-at-vu/apply-to-vu/special-admission-programs/vu-early-entry 

VTAC Applications – Open Now www.vtac.edu.au 

VTAC SEAS & Scholarships Close – 10th October 2025

ACU SEAS Scholarships - www26.uac.edu.au/esapply 

RMIT University - RMIT Student for a Day 

Tuesday September 23rd, 10:00am

Experience your future after high school! Get a feel for RMIT life by walking in the shoes of a uni student, touring the City campus and enjoying hands-on workshops. This is your chance to get some hands-on time with a study area you’re interested in, explore something entirely new, and experience your future uni campus.

Details and Registration:www.rmit.edu.au/life-at-rmit/student-for-a-day

William Angliss Experience Days

Monday 29th September - HospitalityYour suite life starts here! Check-in to our Angliss International Hotel School and dive into the world of hospitality – no experience needed!

Monday 29th September - Aviation Take-off into your future! Fasten your seatbelt and step into the life of cabin crew – no experience needed!

Tuesday 30th September - PatisserieBon appétit! Join our hands-on Patisserie Experience Day and learn to create simple yet tasty treats – no experience needed, just bring your appetite!

Details and Registration:www.angliss.edu.au/events-hub

2026 WORK EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITY

Experience work behind the scenes at Victoria's Parliament House. Whether you’re interested in politics, planting trees, law-making or baking, your work experience placement at the Parliament of Victoria will be an experience you’ll remember. This is a unique opportunity to undertake a week-long placement in either the Parliamentary Sitting or Parliamentary Services program. Placements run for 5 days: Monday-Friday, from 9am until 5pm each day.

Expressions of Interest - Terms  1 & 2 now open!

For further information visit:

www.parliament.vic.gov.au/teach-and-learn/work-experience

Austin Health 2026 Work Experience

Work-based learning opportunities give students the chance to observe a hospital environment in action and to learn about the diverse jobs available within the health industry. Student placement is arranged for a 1 block week period from Monday to Friday. Work experience placements typically target year 10 students exploring careers in Allied Health. 

2026 Applications Close 3rd November 2025

For further information visit:

www.austin.org.au/careers/work-experience 

Monash University - Yr 10 Discovery Day

Thursday October 2nd, 8:30am – 1:45pm 

(School Holidays)

Participate in our interactive faculty workshops and attend our information sessions that are designed to ignite your curiosity, fuel your aspirations, and guide you through the next steps that lead to a bright and promising future at Monash. We even have a custom session for your parent or guardian. 

Details and Registration:www.monash.edu/news/events/year-10-discovery-day

Nadia Collis     

Year 10-12 Co-ordinator

Sue Clay

Careers and Pathways 

Email: s.clay@ncllen.org.au