VET and Careers News

Careers

Ms Elizabeth Kenny 

Futures and Partnerships Practitioner

Book a meeting with me

Lunchtime Information Sessions AT SCHOOL in Week 7, by guest speakers:

• Tues 25th Aug, Break 1(Room 406, near CLE) UQ Scholarships & General Info (Yr 12)
• Wed 26th Aug, Break 1 (Room 406, near CLE) QUT Scholarships & General Info (Yr 12)
• Thurs 27th Aug, Break 1 (Room 406, near CLE) Police and Criminal Law Careers (Yr 10, 11, 12)

• Fri 28th August, Break 1 (Tower Room West) Australian Defence Force Trade Careers (Yr 10, 11, 12)

   

Year 12s - QTAC applications

We had a presenter from QTAC discuss how to do the QTAC application, and all year 12s and parents were emailed the slides from this on Thursday 6th August, Week 4. The process involves TWO important steps:

1. Submit a QTAC Application

2. Register for the ATAR Portal to have your ATAR calculated and released on 18 December.

    

To apply, you need:

• non-school email (this is an important one to check from now on)
• your LUI
• your USI
• If you have done the UCAT exam, you will need your Application number
• You can do this in your own time at home, but we will also support Year 12s with the task of setting up the two accounts during ASH in Week 7
• Need more support? Book in to see Ms Kenny, check QTAC recommended structure below from QTAC presentation PPT (emailed to you 6/8/26), read QTAC guide or call QTAC for more help.

• Additionally there is a QTAC info night online on this Thursday for any students or parents who want further support in this process: QTAC Student Information Night 2026

   

Dates to keep in mind

• 4 August 2026 – Applications open for the 2027 university intake. You can begin your QTAC application and register for the ATAR Portal from this date.
• September 2026 – Fixed closing dates for some Medicine, Dentistry and Creative Arts programs. Some early offer schemes too. Check individual university websites for details.
• 30 September 2026 – Do QTAC application by this date, as this is the QTAC Early Bird application fee deadline. Applications submitted by this date incur a fee of $75. From 1 October 2026, you can still apply, however the application fee increases to $159. All applications allow three free course preference changes; but any additional changes cost $75 each. More information is available on QTAC’s fees, charges and payment options page.
• 20 November 2026 – Last day of Year 12 and early offer round for GU and QUT (other universities can be at different times). You can ACCEPT, REJECT, DEFER or CONDITIONALLY ACCEPT
• 7 December 2026 – Deadline to apply and submit documents for the December offer round.
• 16 December 2026 - your External and final grades are released by QCAA - make sure you have added your professional email to your My QCE QCAA account
• 18 December 2026 – ATARs released by QTAC from 9:00 am.
• 23 December 2026 – Early Offer Round.

• 14 January 2027 – Major Offer Round.

   

QUT Advice Night – Tues 1st Sep 6:30pm via Zoom

Year 12 students and parents can join QUT's Advice Night webinar and learn about entry requirements, the Year 12 Early Offer Scheme (for Queensland students only), adjustment schemes, upgrading pathways and scholarships. Register now. See link.

Ambition in Numbers - Careers in Maths - At Bond University

When: Wednesday, 19 August, 2026

Time: 5pm - 8pm (Registrations open at 4.45pm)

Where: Building 6, Level 3, University Club

Register Now See Link  

Year 11s Interested in Studying a Uni Subject over the Summer?

Read about QUT’s program, attend the info webinar and talk to Ms Kenny for more information and to sign up: QUT - START QUT Note – there are other programs in other unis that are similar, Ms Kenny can assist you if you are interested in any of these.

Year 12s – Look for Scholarships

Carefully search for scholarships that may be relevant to you on the university’s scholarships website, of the university you are interested in, and ask Ms Kenny if you need assistance. Come to the lunchtime info sessions mentioned above.

Tips to get scholarships:

• Apply for every scholarship you’re eligible for – don’t limit yourself to just one.
• Read the instructions carefully and answer every question.
• Start early so you’re not rushing before the deadline.
• Include all requested documents and double-check the requirements.
• Show, don’t just tell – use examples of your achievements, skills and personal qualities.
• Keep a list of your awards, leadership roles, volunteering, sport, work and community activities.
• Explain your career goals and how the course or university will help you achieve them.
• Write a draft and ask your Guidance Officer/Counsellor, teacher or another trusted person for feedback.
• Ask referees for supporting statements well before the due date.

• Proofread everything before you submit.

   

Most importantly, submit your application on time!

More info on scholarships (from Options Bulletin)

Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP)

The Commonwealth Prac Payment offers teaching, nursing, midwifery and social work students support while they are undertaking mandatory placements. The Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) offers $338.60 per week (benchmarked to the single Austudy rate on 1 January each year) to eligible students while they are undertaking a mandatory placement in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in teaching, nursing, midwifery or social work.

Griffith Uni scholarship applications open

Be sure you're considered for all the scholarships you might be eligible for by checking out Griffith Uni's scholarship information page. Applications are now open for 2027 applicants. Click here for more information including:

• One application for all scholarships
• Application process
• Apply as a future student
• Available scholarships

QUT Excellence Scholarships (Academic)

QUT Excellence scholarships are scholarships for students with outstanding academic achievement. The scholarships available include:

• scholarships valued at up to $30,000 each for study in any discipline

• scholarships valued at $10,000 each for study in any discipline.

   

Other benefits may include:

• early access to research opportunities

• membership of the QUT College of Excellence

   

Check out the link to find out more about eligibility and other excellence scholarships. You do not need to complete a scholarship application for the QUT Excellence Scholarship (Academic). All eligible students who complete a QTAC application within QTAC key dates and with a QUT course as their first preference, will be considered. Other scholarships at QUT may require you to complete a separate application form. For further information, refer to the scholarships listed above or view our scholarships. Application preparation is an important key to a successful outcome. 

SAE Scholarships

SAE University College offers a range of domestic and international scholarships to assist students during their studies, including partial tuition scholarships and direct cash bursaries, to support students in regional and remote areas with the cost of living on campus. Find out more here including the application process.

UQ - Tips for a great scholarship application

Thinking about applying for a scholarship? UQ has some useful tips that can help, even if you’re applying for a scholarship at another university. Most coursework scholarships look at three main things when choosing successful applicants:

1. Read and understand the eligibility and selection criteria
2. Prepare your documents

3. Submit your application on time

    

Click here to read more about how to submit a great application.

UQ Scholarships

Dalio Philanthropies Scholarship: This scholarship supports outstanding students with a commitment to academic excellence, offering $10,000 per year. Applications are open and close on 27 August 2026. Find out more here.

LEAD Scholarship: Leadership, Excellence and Diversity (LEAD) Scholarship recipients receive a dedicated mentor and up to $8,000 annually throughout their law journey. Applications are now open and close on 1 November. Find more info here.

UQ Scholarships

At UQ, there is a wide range of scholarships that you can apply for which will provide financial support as you study. Click here to find out about the wide range of scholarships available at UQ.

UQ Sporting scholarships

Are you a high-level athlete planning to study at UQ in 2027? UQ Sporting Scholarships help talented athletes balance university study with the demands of elite sport. Scholarships are available across a range of sports for eligible students competing at State, National or International level. Applications for 2027 opened on 4 August 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. Click here to explore the scholarships available, eligibility requirements and how to apply.

University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)

Explore what scholarships are available, and those coming soon. You can apply for more than one, so be sure to apply for all that you’re eligible for. Find out more about:

• Study Support Grant
• Indigenous Student Success Program (ISSP) - Education costs and accommodation costs scholarships

• UniSQ Residential College Scholarships

   

Australian Catholic University

Lots of scholarships on offer - take a look:Find a scholarship

Students interested in career in teaching/ education:

• Commonwealth Teaching Scholarships - Department of Education, Australian Government
• Additional scholarships and grants
• Aspiring Teacher Grant
• Teach Queensland Prac Placement Grant
• Commonwealth Prac Payment - Department of Education, Australian Government

VET

Ms Melissa Peacock - Program Leader VET

Please see below for our current news and upcoming opportunities for students.

If you would like further information on any of the below items or would like any assistance with completing applications, please see Ms Peacock in the VET and Careers office.

‘School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year’ 2026 Queensland Training Awards

We have some exciting news - Mason Irving was announced School-Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year for the Brisbane Metro region in the 2026 Queensland Training Awards. Being named School-Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year is a significant recognition of Mason's achievements and reflects the high standard of work he demonstrates both in training and workplace experiences.

We are proud of Mason and wish him all the very best of luck at the upcoming Queensland Training Awards State Final in September.

Metropolitan regional final | Department of Trade, Employment and Training

Upcoming opportunities

STP Consultants - Early Careers Program 

STP Consultants is proud to launch our Early Careers Program, providing Year 12 graduates with a unique opportunity to begin a rewarding career in engineering or drafting while continuing their studies. Rather than choosing between work and university, students can earn an income, gain valuable industry experience and graduate with a head start in their careers.

Program Highlights:

• Earn while you learn: Work full-time (four days practical + one study day) and gain paid experience.
• Mentorship and support: Learn from experienced engineers and drafters, with guidance and study support throughout your journey.
• Career pathways: Join as a Junior Draftsperson (associate degree or TAFE pathway) or Cadet Engineer (Bachelor of Engineering pathway).
• Real projects: Gain valuable hands-on experience contributing to projects that help shape communities across Queensland.

Application Details:

• Applications close: 18 September 2026
• Locations: Brisbane, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville & Cairns
• Who can apply: Queensland Year 12 graduates
• Send resume and cover letter to: careers@stpconsultants.com.au
• Learn more: www.stpconsultants.com.au/careers

Year 12s that Love Sport and Business

Consider the Broncos partnership with TAFE Queensland courses:

SIS50321 Diploma of Sport / BSB50420 Diploma of Leadership and Management 

See link.

Schindler Lifts – Electrical Apprenticeship – QLD

Our apprentices are trained in all the skills required to install, service, repair and modernise lifts, escalators and moving walkways. 

If you join the program, you will rotate across the business to help you decide what you want to specialise in after completing your apprenticeship.

• July /August – Applications open
• 31st August – Applications close

More information: Apprenticeship program | Schindler Lifts Australia

Brisbane Northwest Trade Training Centre – Expression of Interest 2027

Brisbane Northwest Trade Training Centre course EOIs are open for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 in 2027.

Courses include

AUR20720 Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation

UEE22020 Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start)

11054NAT Certificate II in Plumbing Services – Yrs 10 & 11 only

RII20120 Certificate II in Resources & Infrastructure Work Preparation

AHC20422 Certificate II in Horticulture

HLT23221 Certificate II in Health Support Services

HLT33021 Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance Cert II Health is a prerequisite

Brisbane North West Technical Trade Training Centre

Please note: Enrolment involves missing a day of school a week to attend the course.

Please see Ms Peacock in the VET and Careers Office for more information before enrolling.

Mater Education Applications Open for 2027

Enrolments for Mater Education Ltd (RTO No: 5210) are now open for are open for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 in 2027.

HLT23221 Certificate II in Health Support Services over two terms, with the option to continue into a HLT33115 Certificate III in Health Services Assistance.

Please note: Enrolment involves missing a day of school a week to attend the course.

Please see Ms Peacock in the VET and Careers Office for more information.

TAFE at Schools Applications Open for 2027

TAFE at Schools applications are open for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 in 2027.

Courses include: 

10972NAT Certificate IV in Justice Studies

ICT30120 Certificate III in Information Technology

CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and care

AUR21520 Certificate II in Automotive Cylinder Head Reconditioning

TAFE at School Course Guide - Greater Brisbane Region by TAFE Queensland - Issuu

Please note: Enrolment involves missing a day of school a week to attend the course.

Please see Ms Peacock in the VET and Careers Office for more information.

Apprenticeship and School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SAT) information 

The following websites contain information on apprenticeships and traineeships. If a student is interested, please take the time to review.

• Apprenticeships and traineeships – Department of Trade, Employment and Training: Apprenticeships and traineeships | Department of Trade, Employment and Training

• School-based apprenticeships and traineeships Queensland Government 

       School-based apprenticeships and traineeships - qld.gov.au

Be prepared 

 Research trade entry requirements

• Australian Apprenticeships – Australian Government

Support Indicator and Industry-Based Literacy & Numeracy Quizzes | Australian Apprenticeships

• Electrotechnology apprenticeships – Queensland Government

Electrotechnology apprenticeships - qld.gov.au

Monitor apprenticeship job alerts

• Apprenticeship Central  Job Search Results | Apprenticeship Central
• Busy at Work Employment Services | Apprenticeships | BUSY At Work
• MEGT Job Board – Browse Open Roles & Apply Today
• MRAEL Home | MRAEL

and complete work experience to develop industry networks.