Partnerships and Pathways

Pathways Report
Our partnerships with College Alumnae, industry and universities are just some of the meaningful and powerful connections that help guide and support students as they explore their post-school pathways.
Year 10 students recently attended the Greater Western Sydney Careers Market at Cambridge Park — a valuable opportunity as they begin thinking about subject selections and post-school options. With hundreds of pathways on display, including university, TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships, and employment, students engaged with a wide range of experts and gathered important resources to help guide their decisions.
Not only have we held Lunch and Learn showcases for UTS and University of Sydney, but some of our Year 10s also took part in the latest instalment of the WSU Fast Forward program last week, for an inspiring day of uni exploration. They experienced mini lectures and tutorials, learned about future study and career pathways, the True Reward early entry program, scholarship opportunities, and heard firsthand from current students on a ‘Unimates’ panel. Campus tours included Engineering labs, a jaw-dropping robotics demo, the impressive library, and a fun PDHPE-inspired session on the basketball courts. A big thank you to former student Ana Setiu Tuala and the Future Student Engagement team at WSU for an unforgettable experience!
Peers from across the Diocese recently gathered at St Columba’s Catholic College for a culturally enriching Senior Forum for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students, hosted by the Jarara Cultural Centre. The day celebrated culture, identity and community through activities like painting, weaving, and traditional dance. A highlight was the keynote from Thomas Mayor, a respected advocate for First Nations voices. An inspiring student panel and connections with future employers and tertiary institutions also gave students a chance to reflect on their journeys and explore exciting post-school pathways. Thank you to the Jarara Cultural Centre and St Columba’s for an empowering and memorable event.
Our Year 11 Work Studies students were honoured to welcome back College Alumnae Charmaine Alterator to class, who generously shared her inspiring career journey and real-world advice. From her beginnings in retail to becoming a Branch Manager at Commonwealth Bank, Charmaine’s story highlighted how motivation, experience, skills and qualifications can open doors and lead to career success. Students walked away with practical tips on starting from entry-level roles, the value of networking, and how combining workplace experience with further study can build a strong foundation for the future.
Charmaine’s Lunch and Learn session also left students feeling empowered to take charge of their own career journeys. A heartfelt thank you to Charmaine for giving back to the College community and inspiring the next generation!
For any pathways enquiries, or to book a coaching conversation, students can pop into the library or email us: amacnamara1@parra.catholic.edu.au
and koliver4@parra.catholic.edu.au
Mr Adam Macnamara
Partnerships and Pathways Coach