PATHWAYS REPORT

YEAR 9 - MOCK INTERVIEWS  

Our Year 9 Pathways students have begun their mock interviews in class, giving them a chance to experience what a real job interview feels like. Students could choose from several mock job opportunities at Browser Bean, Bunnings, Hungry Jack’s, or Harvey Norman. They carefully reviewed job descriptions and prepared a cover letter and résumé tailored to their chosen position. 

We have also been fortunate to have support from the Swan Hill Skills and Jobs Centre, whose staff have helped conduct the interviews and provide valuable, real-world feedback. During the sessions, students were asked a range of questions and received constructive feedback on their communication skills, attitude, and overall presentation.

This experience is a great way to build confidence and prepare for future employment opportunities. 

A WEEK TO REMEMBER: MY WORK EXPERIENCE AT SWAN HILL DISTRICT HEALTH

These last three days, I have had the absolute honour of joining 10D’s work experience week with Swan Hill District Health. I was lucky enough to spend a day in Midwifery, a day in the Acute Ward, and another in the Sub Acute Ward working alongside Occupational Therapists (OTs) and an Allied Health Assistant (AHA). It was truly the best experience, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity. 

From the very first day, the staff all went above and beyond to make the experience meaningful and enjoyable. They will forever stand as role models in my eyes. I felt especially privileged to work alongside Paige and Julie, who were both incredible educators and allowed me to be as hands-on as possible. Every single day was amazing, and every profession I encountered now holds a special place in my heart. 

I was so honoured and thankful to Carla for organising for Paige to teach me, someone whose family I’ve grown up with around the netball courts. It was so special to get a taste of everything. During my time in Midwifery, I was given the opportunity to experience everything a midwife does, using a simulation baby to practice those vital skills. 

Working alongside Julie in the Acute Ward was another absolute honour. She was not only the best teacher but also one of the most compassionate and skilled nurses I have ever met. Julie is a literal earth angel and a true role model. If I could be even half the nurse she is one day, I would consider myself successful. The way she managed her time, supported everyone, and brought calmness to the ward was so inspiring. It was such a privilege to meet her, let alone shadow her in the incredible work she does so naturally. 

In the OT department, I loved experiencing the variety of environments and learning about how many different roles OTs can have. It was also so heart warming to put a smile on patients’ faces,  especially when they saw a younger student who had time to sit down for a game or a chat. 

This work experience definitely pointed me in the right direction. Nursing is not about the title or the badge, it’s about the small moments. Those little smiles and hand holds I received during my time there were already so rewarding. It’s all about the little wins, and to be part of those wins every day would truly be a dream come true. 

Being able to bring a presence that makes a patient smile or comfort them when they need reassurance, while also being trusted by the staff and given small moments of initiative, has really boosted my confidence. It has confirmed to me that this is where I want to be, in a workplace where I’m respected, valued, and where I get to help people every single day. 

Finally, I want to send the biggest thank you to Mrs Haeusler for giving our school students the opportunity to take part in work experience, Anna for all of the hard work she puts into shaping each student’s future, and Mr Anderson for all of the constant support he brings to our Pathways class. A huge thank you also goes to Jayne, Carlee and Aime for giving up their time to allow us this incredible experience within the hospital. And lastly, to Carla, Paige, Julie, Joseph, and all of the other amazing staff members, thank you for making this experience one I’ll never forget! 

Isabelle

Year 10 Student

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