Pathways and Transition

Mrs Kalo Bell – Head of Pathways and Transition; career counselling and pathway planning pathways@johnxxiii.edu.au | 08 9383 0416

Mrs Kelli Beaton – Pathways Assistant; VET and workplace learning coordination pathways@johnxxiii.edu.au | 08 9383 0417

In the Pathways and Transition Newsletter, read about:

• What’s new this week?
• University News
• Scholarships
• Training and VET News
• Other Pathways News
• Career Resources

Kalo Bell

Head of Pathways and Transition

Pathways Picks

This week’s recommended reading 

Do you need to be good at maths to do a STEM apprenticeship? – Study Work Grow

15 October Admission and Scholarships to Top US & UK Universities Presentation – Years 9-12 Students

John XXIII College is excited to host a free one-hour presentation for students and families in Years 9-12 on how Australian students can secure admission to the top US & UK universities, presented by Jack Anderson, two-time WA Young Australian of the Year, Harvard Graduate, Schwarzman Scholar, and Churchill Fellow. 

Find out more and book tickets HERE.

24 September – JTC Alumni Event for Year 12 Students

Our host, Brian Neo, will share what 25 years in commercial property have taught him, and reflect on the role businesses can play in giving back to their community, from long-standing local partnerships to his recent role on a development advisory network for the Perth Children's Hospital Foundation.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 24 September 2026

Time: 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Location: Sterling Property, Suite 6, 388 Hay Street, Subiaco

Host: Brian Neo (Class 1997), Founder and Managing Director, Sterling Property

RSVP by Thursday, 17 September at https://alumni.johnxxiii.edu.au/AlumniNetworkingEventSep26

10 September Army Careers Information Session

There's so much more to life in the Army, with stimulating work opportunities, plenty of travel, amazing mateship, and extensive sport and leisure facilities. Discover whether an Army career is your kind of challenge.

6-8pm, Perth ADF Careers Centre 

Level 6, 58 Mounts Bay Road, Perth. Register HERE.

Butcher Apprenticeship Opportunity – 16 years +

Expressions of Interest

Are you 16 years or older and considering a hands-on career pathway? We are seeking expressions of interest from students who are interested in a Butcher Apprenticeship opportunity. Please see Mrs Bell or the Pathways Team to learn more.

GeckoSport West Coast – currently hiring! 

GeckoSport West Coast are currently looking for enthusiastic and reliable students to join our casual coaching team. They provide fun, engaging and inclusive sport and PE programs for schools and children across Perth, and are looking for people who are passionate about sport, enjoy working with children and are looking for flexible casual work. If this sounds like you and you’re interested, follow the ‘Apply now’ instructions in the attached flyer.

School Leaver Toolkit – Years 12 Students

Year 12 students and their families can access the School Leaver Toolkit and Guide for 2026 HERE. 

In the guide you will find useful information covering:

• Preparing to leave school
• Study plans and focus
• Post-school pathways
• Life admin
• Financial independence
• Leaving home
• Transport
• Backup plans
• Finding help
• Resources

Apply to University Guide 2026- Out NOW

A guide to university applications for students commencing study in 2027. 

Get your copy HERE. 

TISC Applications Open

Applications through TISC for 2027 admission are now open.

You can apply via TISC online HERE.

EARLY OFFERS FOR 2027 ADMISSION Students applying through TISC will automatically be considered for an early offer for their first preference if that course makes early offers. There is no need to complete any separate or additional procedures to be considered for early offers. There will be two Year 12 Early Offer rounds this year. The first early offer round will be released on Monday, 5 October 2026, and the second and final early offer round will be released on Wednesday, 2 December 2026.

Year 10 Students – TISC University Admission Guide 2029 OUT NOW

TISC’s 2029 UNIVERSITY ADMISSION brochure: Admission Requirements for School Leavers completing Year 12 in 2028 can be accessed HERE.

Year 12 Students – TISC 2027 Brochure 

TISC’s 2027 UNIVERSITY ADMISSION brochure: Admission Requirements for School Leavers completing Year 12 in 2026 can be accessed HERE.

Notre Dame Early Offer Program Open - Year 12 Students

Notre Dame University’s Early Offer Program applications open on 1 May via their website: Apply direct to Notre Dame | Notre Dame. The first round of early offers will be released from early September. There are four rounds of Early Offers in total. If a student does not receive an Early Offer, their application will automatically roll into the main admission round for consideration.

For more information about applying and accepting an Early Offer, please refer to the university’s How to apply - Early Offer Program page.

Law Start Program – Murdoch University

Aiming to study law at university? Law Start might be the pathway for you.

Law Start is an alternative admission pathway that allows students an alternative entry into an undergraduate law degree outside of traditional requirements, because at Murdoch we know people’s circumstances aren’t a direct reflection of their ability to succeed. As long as you're excelling in one or more ATAR subjects with a strong focus on essay writing and communication, our Law Start admission pathway could be for you.

Murdoch's Law Start program is taking applications now! The 2026 workshop dates are:

• Saturday 19 September
• Saturday 12 December

For more information and eligibility requirements, visit the Law Start website.

UWA Open Nights

• 8 September Medicine and Dentistry 5:45-8:15pm
• 9 September Law, Humanities and Social Sciences 5:30-8pm

Discover expert insights, personalised admissions advice, and enjoy hands-on activities and guided tours across UWA.

Find details HERE.

7 September WAAPA Diploma of Screen Performance Q&A

Join Course Coordinator, Michael Abercromby and Screen Acting Lecturer Damian Foley for an online Q&A exploring our Diploma of Screen Performance course and 2027 auditions process. Learn about the specialised training offered in this one year intensive, designed to develop the skills actors need to further their careers in film and television. 

With 2027 auditions approaching, this is the perfect chance to ask questions, gain insights, and see how WAAPA can help shape your professional career. 

Register HERE.

7 September Teacher Education Information Evening

Our Information Session will cover course details, admission pathways, application processes, fees, scholarships, and flexible study options such as online or part-time learning.

6-7pm Joondalup Campus. 

Register HERE.

New Parents’ Guide to University Study released

Each year ECU publishes the Parents’ Guide to University Study. It is easy to read and useful for families who have young people going to any university. 

Check it out HERE. 

Year 10 Opportunities

Choosing subjects for Year 11 & 12

Curtin has released its Year 10 Guide. 

This Guide provides a:

• Find U Quiz
• Pathways information
• Information about Curtin
• Course information 
• Support available at Curtin

2027 Undergraduate Course Guides (WA Universities) 

Curtin Undergraduate Course Guide 2027

ECU Undergraduate Guide to Careers & Courses 2027

Murdoch Undergraduate Course Guide 2026/2027

Notre Dame Undergraduate Guide 2027

UWA Undergraduate Course Guide 2027

University Contacts for Future Students

Contact your local university for course advice.

Interstate Admission Centre Contacts 

For those who are thinking about applying for a place at a university outside Western Australia, here is a list of admission centres around Australia: 

• Charles Darwin University applications are taken by SATAC 
• Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) for QLD 
• South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC) for SA and NT 
• Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) for NSW and ACT 
• The University of Tasmania, incorporating the Australian Maritime College 
• Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)for VIC 

Year 12 Opportunities: Find the huge range of scholarships available 

Register for Scholarship Alerts NOW

You can create scholarship alerts through the Good Universities Guide and through universities. 

• Good Universities Guide
• Curtin
• ECU
• Murdoch
• Notre Dame
• UWA 

• Bond University 

   

Get Five tips for a strong scholarship application. 

There are a number of scholarships available and for a range of industries: 

• The Country Education Foundation
• Commonwealth Teaching Scholarship
• Indigenous Pathways Portal.
• ADCET Scholarships for people with disability

Find money to support your studies – Scholarship Database

In this database, you’ll find scholarships, awards and more: Find Scholarships – Study Work Grow

Scholarships Guide – for students and their families

Scholarships Guide 2026 - School Licensed Edition

UWA Engineering Scholarship Opportunities for Year 12 Students 

The UWA Engineering Excellence Scholarship offers $10,000 to students commencing an engineering degree with an ATAR of 90 or above. Designed to recognise academic achievement and future potential, the scholarship provides valuable support as students begin their engineering journey.  

ECU Engineering Scholarship Opportunities for Year 12 Students

Executive Dean Elite Engineering Scholarship

Do you excel academically, display leadership and are considered a great role model for students and others in your community? In school, are you recognised for your commitment to community service and your ability to inspire others? If so, you could be a candidate for ECU’s Executive Dean Elite Engineering Scholarship.

This scholarship is open to all domestic students currently in Year 12 who are Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or the holder of a refugee or humanitarian visa.

You must also:

• be completing Year 12 studies (WACE or an equivalent program) in the year you apply
• satisfy admission requirements for the intended Engineering Bachelor degree course*
• not be receiving any other merit-based scholarship at ECU

• plan to be a full-time student studying on-campus at ECU Joondalup

   

You must submit your completed application and supporting documentation by the closing date of Sunday, 18 October 2026, at 5pm AWST.

* Non eligible courses are: Bachelor of Technology (Aeronautical); Bachelor of Engineering Honours/Bachelor of Commerce; Bachelor of Engineering Honours/Bachelor of Science; and Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Systems) Honours//Bachelor of Computer Science.

More information can be found HERE.

ECU Engineering Excellence Scholarships

ECU is offering scholarships valued at up to $20,000 to high-performing Year 12 students who have achieved an ATAR of 94 or above and wish to study Engineering in 2027. This scholarship will support your study in some of the best-equipped, industry-grade engineering labs in Australia, work on real-world projects, and develop strong contacts through industry engagements, events and internships.

In order to be eligible for this scholarship, you must:

• be nominated by your School, or you can self-nominate by the deadline;
• perform satisfactorily in all of your WACE subjects;
• be on target to achieve an ATAR of 94 or above;
• nominate an ECU Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) course as first preference on the TISC application;
• satisfy admission requirements for the intended ECU Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) course;
• not be in receipt of any other merit-based scholarship at ECU;

• be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, holder of a Refugee and Humanitarian visa, or New Zealand citizen.

   

More information can be found HERE.

Curtin University - The 2027 John Curtin Scholarship Program is NOW OPEN for applications – Year 12 Students

The program invests in future leaders who will apply their academic abilities, personal attributes and passion to lead and inspire positive change.

Scholars will receive:

• a high level of financial support over the duration of their undergraduate studies.
• funding toward an international study experience.
• opportunities to develop the personal qualities to become a future leader and to inspire change.

• a closely connected community of scholars and alumni that offers ongoing mentorship and inspiration to achieve excellence.

   

Year 12 students wishing to nominate will be able to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities and engagement in community service.

Online applications close for this program on 9 September 2026.

If you are interested in applying, please contact Mrs Bell, Head of Pathways, or Mr Bostelman, Year 12 ADP for further information.

Curtin 2027 Excellence Scholarship

The Curtin Excellence Scholarship has been developed for students who have demonstrated academic excellence through their ATAR in 2026 and want to pursue study at Curtin University.

Application forms are not required; students apply by selecting an eligible Curtin degree through TISC as their first preference by the scholarship closing date and who receive an ATAR of 96+ will automatically be considered.

Check the details HERE.

Murdoch Scholarship Opportunity for Year 12 Students

Ngala Kwop Biddi - Brighter Futures Scholarship extended for three years 

Murdoch is proud to announce that the Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship has been extended for a further three years to support school leavers in 2026-2028. Each WA Secondary School will be able to nominate one of their graduating Year 12 students who, through their leadership and activities, has effected positive change in their school or community.

The Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship is valued at $12,000. For information, go HERE.

NMTAFE and SMTAFE VETDSS 2027 Course Guides 

Applications for North Metropolitan TAFE VETDSS courses commencing in 2027 have now CLOSED. The official NMTAFE VETDSS 2027 Course Guide is available HERE.

Applications for South Metropolitan TAFE VETDSS courses commencing in 2027 have now CLOSED. The official SMTAFE VETDSS 2027 Course Guide is available HERE.

Construction Training Fund Scholarships – Years 10 & 11 students 

Each year, Construction Training Fund (CTF) awards scholarships to Western Australian students passionate about the building industry. The CTF Construction Careers Scholarship provides students with the best chance of securing an apprenticeship and career in building and construction.

More information, including how to apply can be found HERE.

2027 Apprenticeships – being advertised now! 

If you haven’t started your apprenticeship or traineeship application for 2027, it is time to get started! 

Go to your local Jobs and Skills Centre for advice and support. 

• Follow the steps on the Jobs and Skills WA Apprenticeships and traineeships page
• Get help from an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider. See the list of providers below. 
• Check out opportunities at major employers like WesTrac, Western Power, Charles Hull Contracting
• Check out opportunities at a Group Training Organisation. These Organisations are available across Australia. 
• Browse active listings on for example:
  •  SEEK Apprenticeships,  
  • Australian Employment Network

Check out the information South Metropolitan TAFE has provided to coach you through your application process. They have written a 4-part guide. Start HERE.

New Career Quiz at the Construction Futures Centre 

The Construction Futures Centre team has launched a new Career Quiz for students, teachers and those looking for a career change. It has a bias towards the different career pathways across the construction industry, from trades to design, to planning and management. It’s fun to see where a career in construction could lead.  

Check out the quiz HERE. 

Offsite Study Options for Year 11 and 12 Students 

For students who decide to pursue a senior secondary pathway other than studying 5 or 6 ATAR courses, John XXIII College partners with South and North Metropolitan TAFE Colleges as well as other private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs,) in order to offer Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS.) Our commonly used partners could include:

• North Metropolitan TAFE 2027 VETDSS Course Guide
• South Metropolitan TAFE 2027 VETDSS Course Guide
• FEC (Fremantle Education Centre)
• Diamond High Performance

• Health Science Hub

   

Co-Payment

Please note that a co-payment will be required for offsite Certificate courses with annual fees exceeding $2000 per annum.

Students and families for whom following a pathway other than studying five or six ATAR courses is of interest are strongly encouraged to make an appointment with the Pathways and Transition team.

Electrical Trades Information

A practical VET Pathway into the Electrical Trades

From Apprenticeship Support Australia 

The Certificate II in Data and Voice Communications (UEE20720) offers students a practical and industry‑aligned VET pathway into the electrical field. Through hands‑on learning, students develop core capabilities such as installing and maintaining telecommunication cabling, working safely with extra‑low voltage systems, assembling components, and interpreting technical drawings—skills that closely support the early stages of electrical trade training. The qualification also includes training aligned with ACMA open cabler registration, giving students a valuable edge when approaching electrical industry intakes and apprenticeship opportunities.

For more information on electrical apprenticeships, go to So, you want to be an electrician. Here are some suggested pathways into electrical trades. 

Start an Electrical Apprenticeship Early

Apprenticeship Support has joined ongoing efforts to identify pathways for students entering the electrical trades. They recommend that students start with one of these courses:

• Cert II in Sustainable Energy
• Cert II in Electronics
• Cert II in Computer Assembly and Repair.

Electrical Apprenticeship Maths Skills

Electrical apprenticeship Maths tests focus on Year 10–11 level applied Mathematics, covering basic arithmetic, algebra, fractions, decimals, and geometry, with a typical duration of 1 hour 45 minutes. Key areas include Ohm’s Law, cable calculations, and unit conversions. Calculators are generally allowed, and these tests are often used to identify the need for extra support.

Practice Maths tests can be found on the So, you want to be an electrician article/post. 

New Training ➡️ Occupations Pathways

Discover where your apprenticeship can lead. Jobs and Skills Australia has released the Training to Occupation Pathways (TOP) dataset, a new tool that maps VET qualifications to occupations and reveals the many pathways between them. 

Whether you're exploring career options, planning workforce needs, or shaping policy, TOP provides practical, evidence-based insights to support better decisions. Explore the data in two directions:

• Start with a qualification to see potential job outcomes.

• Start with an occupation to understand the training options available.

   

This new dataset provides information that can then be used in partnership with MyFuture to find information about Western Australian opportunities.

Apprenticeship and Traineeship Information

How to Get an Apprenticeship or Traineeship

An apprenticeship or traineeship is a job. You apply through sites like Seek or Indeed, you may know someone who is willing to take you on, or you can apply through a Group Training Organisation. 

• You sign a contract when you start agreeing to undertake all aspects of the work and training (onsite working and training at a college). 
• There is usually a company (like MEGT or Apprenticeship Support) that manages the paperwork for you and your employer, and that provides you with support as you start your apprenticeship/traineeship. 

A Group Training Organisation is…

A Group Training Organisation employs lots of apprentices and trainees. They coordinate the placement of the apprentices and trainees across different host employers so that you can cover all the skills you need for your apprenticeship/traineeship.

You can find a GTO near you by going HERE. 

Apprenticeship VS. Traineeship 

Apprenticeships are usually in traditional trades, like plumbing or hairdressing. Traineeships are usually shorter and in new occupations like IT, business and government. 

You don’t get paid much, but:

• Your employer should cover your training fees.
• Your employer MAY pay for your tools, equipment and uniform.
• There MAY be a scholarship or subsidy to help you to cover costs. Check the Construction Training Fund Apprentice Funding page.

The West Australian Government provides free information to help you to get an apprenticeship or traineeship at the Apprenticeship Office.  Seek and Indeed advertise for apprentices and trainees all through the year. The Jobs and Skills Centres also have a jobs board. 

Jobs and Skills Centre for Apprenticeships and Traineeships 

Parents, employers and students can get free, government-funded information and guidance about apprenticeships and traineeships from one of the Jobs and Skills Centres.

If you think a trade or traineeship could be a good pathway for you, go to a Jobs and Skills Centre. 

Australian Government School Leaver Program – Year 12 Students

Trainee, Apprentice and School Leaver Programs

About a third of all Australian jobs are government jobs. The variety of opportunities is unmatched by any other employer in Australia.

• Check out the Apprentice Program HERE.
• Check out the Career Starter Program HERE.
• Check out the Australian Federal Police Directions Program HERE. 

Find out about it HERE.

ATO School Leaver Program

Launch your career with the ATO School Leaver Program 🚀 

Join the 12-month program and you’ll get:  

• a competitive salary $58,608 plus 15.4% super 
•  a permanent position 
• professional development and career growth opportunities 
• supportive team environment 

• certificate III in IT or Business on completion. 

   

Applications open from 12-28 August 2026. Visit ato.gov.au/schoolleaver for more info and to apply!  

Applications Open for Fogarty Futures Leadership Conference – Years 10 and 11 Students 

The Fogarty Futures Leadership Conference is a four-day overnight camp for Years 10 and 11 students, run from 2 to 5 October. It is designed to develop leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. The program focuses on building authentic, courageous leaders passionate about social justice and community engagement.

If you are interested in attending, consider going with a buddy. 

Check out details HERE.

The Future Doctors Australia Program – Year 9 to 12 Students 

The Future Doctors Australia program provides a unique, hands-on opportunity for students aged 14–18 who are passionate about a future in medicine, and for those who wish to explore career in medicine. Over the course of 4 days, participants engage in sessions led by medical specialists, take part in practical activities, and gain insight into the medical admissions process. Book Now for 21-24 January 2027. 

Find details HERE. 

Leeuwin Youth Adventure Voyages 

Experience life under sail on Leeuwin’s Youth Adventure Voyages. Upcoming voyages and their details provided below. 

Upcoming voyages

• Duke of Edinburgh's Bronze Adventurous Voyage: 24 - 25 October 2026

Further information and how to enrol can be found on their website: https://sailleeuwin.com/

Year 12 Information Handbook – Part I OUT NOW!

The School Curriculum and Standards Authority’s Year 12 Information Handbook Part I can be accessed HERE.

The Year 12 Information Handbook is provided in two parts, with Part I for all Year 12 students, including information about: 

• key dates that are important for you this year 
• what is involved in the WASSA and the WACE 
• the student portal and the WACE Checker 
• equivalences and how they can count towards your WACE 
• school-based assessment and how it works 
• examinations (the focus of Part II, available in July) 
• general advice on life as a Year 12 student.

2026 Year 10 Information Handbook

The School Curriculum and Standards Authority Year 10 Information Handbook is available now. Get your copy HERE. 

8 September Perth Defence Careers Information Session 

Wondering whether a job in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is the right fit for you?

Come along to an upcoming info session where you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and learn everything you want to know regarding job roles in the Navy, Army and Air Force.

6-8pm Perth ADF Careers Centre Level 6, 58 Mounts Bay Road, Perth 

Register HERE.

ADF Careers Information Sessions

Are you interested in learning more about a career with the Australian Defence Force? ADF Career information sessions are held at various times throughout the year. Find upcoming events including information sessions, open days, career expos and more - register for the next session by going HERE. 

WA Police Recruitment Sessions 

Are you interested in learning more about a career with WA Police Force?

Recruitment information sessions are held at the WA Police Force Academy in Joondalup, where you can learn more about the application process and life as a police officer.

Their Recruiting Team will provide an overview of the selection process and training requirements. Register for the next session by going HERE.

Police Cadets

Australian or New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Australian Resident aged between 17 and 19.

Please note, applicants can apply at 16; however, they must be 17 years old upon selection to a Cadet school. Find details HERE.

Gap Year Guide 2026 Out NOW - Year 12 Students 

You can access a copy of the 2026 Gap Year Guide HERE.

Gap Year Opportunities - The Cardoner Network - Year 12 Students

The Cardoner Network has been running volunteer programs since 2012 and became a registered charity in 2019. An Ignatian-inspired organisation, they offer post-school immersions and also longer Gap Year-style placements.

The Two Wolves Abroad program includes Immersion offerings, a shorter experience focused on reflective journeys in our partner community locations around the world. Since its inception, over 400 young adults have participated in these reflective journeys.

Explore their programs and the opportunities further HERE. 

Gap Year Opportunities with AgCAREERSTART

Consider a Gap Year in the Ag Industry for 2027. You get: 

• $3000 towards training.
• A full-time job.

• Tons of support to find out about career opportunities.

   

Explore the opportunities HERE.

Gap Year Opportunities with ADF Careers

If you're 17-24 years old and interested in experiencing the Navy, Army or Air Force without making a long-term commitment, an ADF Gap Year is an option. It’s a unique opportunity to grow, train, travel, get paid, get a feel for a career in the ADF, and gain skills for life. Find out more HERE.

The Career Clusters

Thinking about your career as a series of static jobs is a thing of the past. By learning about your strengths, skills, and values, you can easily work out a pathway that’s right for you. There are six Career Clusters, and within each Cluster you’ll find people who share a set of tasks, core technical and transferable skills, work environments, and common outcomes. Their quiz is quick and easy – why not learn which Cadi Cluster you’re in today?

Try it out: The Career Clusters

The Morrisby Profile

All John XXIII College students in Years 10, 11 and 12 have completed their Morrisby Profile (in Years 9 or 10), providing a valuable resource for career exploration and pathway planning. Students are encouraged to log back into their Morrisby Profiles regularly to view new career matches and information. Morrisby can also be a useful tool for facilitating career discussions between young people and their parents.

Troubleshooting with logins, etc, can be directed to Mrs Bell, Head of Pathways and Transition.

MyFuture – your one-stop shop for career information

Do quizzes, watch career videos, check out courses, and what happens when you get into the job. MyFuture takes you on a career exploration pathway. 

• MyFuture is thorough and delivers loads of free information.
• It is supported by ALL Australian governments. 
• The information is not biased by someone trying to sell you something. 

• They have a strong privacy policy and DO NOT share your data. 

   

You can register HERE.

Your Career

Search industries and occupations to find a career that’s right for you and what you can do to get there. Take a career quiz. Explore fee-free TAFE. Take an interactive quiz to see what literacy and numeracy skills you’ll use in your chosen industry. 

Click HERE to explore.

Kalo Bell

Head of Pathways and Transition