Senior School

31st National Schools Constitutional Convention

Article by Etienne, Year 12 Student & member of the Student Executive

Last week, I attended the National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra, where I joined students from across Australia to explore how the Constitution operates and how it might evolve in the future. A major focus of the convention was examining Section 53, which outlines the powers of the Senate in relation to financial legislation. Through debates, workshops and many keynote speakers, I developed a clearer understanding of how this section shapes the balance of power between the houses of Parliament and why it remains significant in modern Australian politics - especially when looking at the Whitlam dismissal in 1975. 

Beyond the academic side, the experience was incredibly rewarding on a personal level. I had the opportunity to connect with students from all over the country, sharing ideas and perspectives that broadened my thinking. Engaging with my local parliamentarians, such as Gorton member Alice Jordan-Baird and Maribyrnong member Jo Briskey, was another highlight, as it gave me an opportunity to engage with individuals who live what I study. Overall, the convention was both intellectually stimulating and personally enriching, strengthening my interest in politics and reinforcing the importance of collaboration and youth engagement in shaping Australia’s future.

Career Development  

Article by Kate Runciman, Career Development Leader 

Term 1 has been a busy and positive start to the year in the Career Development Centre. Throughout February, our Career Development Practitioners met with each of our Year 12 students as they began thinking about life beyond school in 2027. 

We have also greatly enjoyed welcoming our new Year 10 cohort into the Senior School. It has been a pleasure getting to know each student as we explore their Morrisby Profile results together and begin conversations about their interests, strengths and future possibilities. 

Year 12 Term 1 Meetings 

Whether students are considering university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or entering the workforce, these individual meetings provide a valuable opportunity to reflect on their goals and explore different pathways. 

Some students have already started researching specific courses and institutions, including interstate options, residential colleges, scholarships and Study Abroad opportunities. Others are exploring broader areas of interest while some are finding it difficult to know where to begin - which is completely normal. 

At this stage, there is no expectation for students to have made firm decisions about their future. It is very common for young people to feel uncertain or even overwhelmed by the choices ahead. Many feel pressure to “get it right” the first time, but we continue to reassure students that career pathways are rarely linear and that keeping an open mind is key. 

We encourage all Year 12 students, even those who feel confident in their plans, to explore a range of options. Taking part in programs offered by universities and tertiary providers during the April school holidays are excellent ways to begin. Throughout Term 2, we will continue to share opportunities such as webinars, information sessions, and on-campus events. 

Year 10 Work Experience (Monday 15 – Friday 19 June) 

A major focus this term has been supporting our Year 10 students in securing their Work Experience placements. Building on the preparation completed in Year 9, it has been wonderful to see students engaging with a wide variety of industries. 

Placements have already been confirmed across a range of different industries including fitness and leisure, performing arts, childcare, interior design, construction management, biomedical research, physiotherapy, hairdressing, aviation, finance and insurance. Students have secured placements in leading architecture firms, with the Australian Defence Force, and at major sporting and cultural organisations such as The MCG and Museums Victoria. 

For students who are still finalising their placement, the April school holidays are an ideal time to reach out to potential employers, particularly through face-to-face visits where possible. Students may also find it helpful to revisit their Pastoral Care (Stile) lessons, which include practical tips and strategies for approaching organisations. 

Parents can access an overview of the program here: Work Experience: A Guide for 2026 

Term 1 School Holidays - A great time to explore! 

The upcoming school holiday period offers a valuable opportunity for students to step onto campus and experience what further study might feel like. Many TAFEs, universities, and independent tertiary providers run tours, workshops, and hands-on activities during this time. 

These experiences can be incredibly useful in building confidence and giving students a clearer sense of their interests, whether that’s exploring a new field, speaking with current students, or simply getting a feel for campus life. 

A range of school holiday activities are featured in Career News including programs at ACU, Deakin, La Trobe, Monash, RMIT, Swinburne, The University of Melbourne, and William Angliss Institute. As places in some activities are limited, we encourage students to register early if something sparks their interest.

Each fortnight, the College Careers Team publishes a newsletter providing students and parents with the most up-to-date career information, events and opportunities.  

Please access via the following link.