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 

Apply to University Guide 2026

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

Get your copy HERE.

Explore a career in trades- Women in Trades Evening

North Metropolitan TAFE (NMTAFE) invites female students to attend the NMTAFE Women in Trades Evening, an inspiring event showcasing the exciting opportunities available in trade and technical careers. Students will have the opportunity to explore NMTAFE's state-of-the-art trade training facilities through guided tours, meet lecturers, industry representatives and career advisors, and discover the training and career pathways available. They will also gain hands-on insight into a range of industries, including Energy, Engineering, Automotive and Rail helping them make informed decisions about their future.

Dates: Thursday 3 September 2026

Time: 3:00pm – 6:30pm

Location: NMTAFE Midland Campus, Corner Lloyd Street and Eddie Barron Drive, Midland

RSVP: register via the link by Friday, 14 August - Microsoft Forms

Further information can be found on the NMTAFE website.

12 August Curtin University Scholarships Webinar

Scholarships can offer students more than financial support while they study at Curtin - they connect them with opportunities to help them thrive. We invite students to join our experts to discover the wide range of merit and need-based scholarships on offer. They'll also pick up practical tips on how to put together a compelling scholarship application.

Date: 12 August 2026

Time: 5:30pm to 6:30pm

Location: Online

Register now: HERE.

15 August ACAP & SAE Open Day

The ACAP University College is collocated with the SAE University College in Northbridge.

ACAP focuses on human-centered courses like psychology, counselling and social work.
SAE University College focuses on creative, media and technology careers.

From 11am – 2pm on 15 August, you can take the opportunity to explore the ACAP human-centred courses and the SAE creative courses at their Northbridge campus Open Day.

Find details HERE.

18 August Music Careers Expo

The Music Careers Expo connects young people with insights and info about careers in Australia’s music industry.

This free, one-day event for young people will have performances, workshops, and one-on-one conversations with people working across the Australian music industry.

Find details HERE.

19 August Curtin University Undergraduate Course Expo

This is your chance to find out everything you need to know about life at Curtin. Our team are ready to answer all your questions about courses, pathways, scholarships and campus life. Check out the course session times and register 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!

Year 10 – 11 Opportunities

Applications Open for Fogarty Futures Leadership Conference

The Fogarty Futures Leadership Conference is a four-day overnight camp for Years 10 and 11 students, run from 2-5 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.

Monash Information Evening Webinar - Tuesday 1st September

Monash will be holding a virtual Monash Information Evening in September. This seminar is open to Year 10-12 students and parents to find out all about Monash courses, accommodation, scholarships and more!

Time: 6:30-8pm (AEST)

More info and to register: here.

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.

9 August ECU City Campus Open Day

You can tour the incredible new ECU City Campus on 9 August. They are expecting a big crowd so please book in and get your tickets early!

Organisation: Edith Cowan University

Location: Edith Cowan University, City Campus

Date: August 9, 2026

Join us at an Open Day and load up on inspiration! Explore the campus and talk to our people about how you could be studying with us. Find out more

11 August Notre Dame Early Offer Information Evening

Date: Tuesday, 11 August 2026

Time: 6-8pm

Location: Prindiville Hall, Mouat Street, Fremantle

Year 12 students and their families are invited to attend the University of Notre Dame Early Offer Information Evening. It will provide valuable information about their Early offer process, available study pathways, and the transition from secondary school to university. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with academic staff, current students, and student support teams, gaining first-hand insights into university life and the support available throughout their studies.

To register and find out more: Early Offer Information Evening | Notre Dame Australia | Fremantle

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.

Go to Open Days 2026

All Year 10+ students who want to go to university in WA should go to at least two Open Days:

To the one closest to where you live.
The one with the courses and campus life that will make your life better.

These myfuture tips will help you make the most of open days:

University Open Day Calendar 2026

Edith Cowan University

9 August

ECU City

Get details HERE.

2026 Medicine - University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) Dates

If you want to apply for medicine for 2027, you will need to undertake a UCAT assessment.

These are the important dates for UCAT in 2026: Deadline times are 11:59pm AEST - Australian Eastern Standard Time

Concession Scheme opens Access Arrangements open	16 February 2026
BOOKING OPENS	3 March 2026
Concession application deadline	11 May 2026
Access Arrangements application deadline	15 May 2026
BOOKING DEADLINE	15 May 2026
Late booking deadline Late Access Arrangements application deadline	29 May 2026
FINAL late booking deadline	5 June 2026
Cancellation deadline	12 June 2026
Testing begins	1 July 2026
Last testing date	5 August 2026
Results delivered to universities	early September 2026

Sign up for notices on the UCAT ANZ website.

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.

University of Western Australia	Get advice on enrolling, fees, scholarships, exams, academic documents, graduating and more. Email: askUWA, Phone+61 8 6488 3235
Curtin University	Support for applying, exploring entry pathways to Curtin and finding a course that’s right for you. 1300 222 888 Submit an enquiry Book an appointment
Edith Cowan University	Want to know more about any of the courses we offer, or your entry options? Phone: 134 328 Email Future Students: Domestic student enquiries South West Campus and Margaret River Education Campus Telephone: 134 328
Murdoch University	Student Central offers advice and services for future students. Phone: 1300 687 3624 Email studentcentre@murdoch.edu.au
Notre Dame University	If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or visit us on campus. Phone: 1800 878 916 Email: future@nd.edu.au

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.

Get Five tips for a strong scholarship application.

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

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 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.

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 out NOW and Applications OPEN!

Applications for North Metropolitan TAFE VETDSS courses commencing in 2027 are NOW OPEN. The official NMTAFE VETDSS 2027 Course Guide is available HERE.

Applications for South Metropolitan TAFE VETDSS courses commencing in 2027 are NOW OPEN. 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.

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:

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:

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.

15 August ADFA Open Day 2026

Organisation: Australian Defence Force Academy

Location: ADFA Canberra Campus & Online

Date: 15 August, 2026

ADFA Open Day is run each year in August. Join us online or in person to:

Explore world-class UNSW degrees, with information sessions about Business, Arts, Science, Engineering, Computing and Cyber Security.
Learn about military training, studying and life on campus from current ADFA Trainee Officers.
Watch a variety of exciting displays, take a virtual tour, and much more

Find out more

15 August Hospitality Event - Year 11 and 12 Students

Industry Insights invites Year 11 and 12 students to step inside the iconic DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront and see what a future in hospitality, tourism and events could really look like. By bringing classroom learning to life in a real industry setting, students gain a clearer understanding of one of Australia’s most dynamic and internationally connected sectors.

During the event, students will:

Hear from hospitality professionals as they share their career journeys and insights
Join an interactive industry workshop and receive a Completion Certificate
Meet current THSA students and speak with our Course Advisors
Discover study pathways and career opportunities in hospitality, tourism and events
Enjoy complimentary morning tea and lunch

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.

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 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

Drama

Coming soon

Music and Drama calendar