CAREERS

MAS Preparing Year 9s for Work & Life 

On the 9th of February 2022 students in year 9 participated in an engaging classroom presentation run by MAS, an organisation focused on preparing jobseekers and students for the workplace. Daniel Greg, the Careers Development Team Leader at MAS, shared tips and insight into the value of working, volunteering, and gaining skills or experience that will help students stand out in today’s competitive job market. 

Students in Year 9 may not yet have goals or aspirations for what they want to do after school and therefore, having some part-time or casual work experience can give them perspective and life skills when they finish school. Some students knew exactly what they want to do (e.g. become a sports journalist, nurse and so on!) but Daniel highlighted that these roles will all require more than just good grades and encouraged students to seek opportunities to challenge themselves and take ownership of their future. 

Daniel highlighted how transferable skills can lead to increased employability. These skills included: 

• Listening skills
• Communication skills
• Resilience 
• Teamwork 
• Strong work ethic
• Versatility 

Daniel explained that these skills can be developed not only in part-time work but also through volunteering, learning an instrument, being involved in community activities such as sports clubs and so on. The job market may be difficult for year 9s to enter and therefore Daniel suggested using social media, asking friends and family, checking signs or newsletters, dropping off resumes and directly approaching the place of employment.  

The current pandemic has resulted in many challenges for high school students as they prepare for life after school but their perseverance through such obstacles is evidence for achievements to come.