CAREERS NEWS

Futureproofing our students’ careers 

There is a lot of doomsday information out there about employment prospects in the future.  The reality is that this generation will have many opportunities to succeed in a variety of careers. Jobs and Skills Australia recently released a Report called Pathways to success and some interesting information came from it. 

Key things that to know that will help students make decisions that will futureproof their careers include: 

✔️Lifelong learning must become central to workforce development. 

✔️Critical thinking, problem solving, initiative and leadership are increasingly needed in construction and engineering roles. 

✔️Opportunity is uneven across regions so where you live can impact job and career opportunities. 

✔️Major areas of growth are in: 

          ❁Aged Care and Health 

          ❁Software Development and Programming 

          ❁Nursing 

          ❁Education 

          ❁Electricians

✔️Current school leavers have a strong preference for higher education degrees even though most find VET qualifications are more relevant to employment needs. 

✔️VET increases employment and earning outcomes for historically disadvantaged groups.

What does this mean for our students? 

🔐The current curriculum at Nazareth is meeting the key attribute shortages identified in the report. Students have both formative and summative assessment that incorporates the use of critical thinking and problem solving. Our student leadership program and Vinnies network help students.  

🔐The Year 10 students have an opportunity to explore the growth areas through the Work Experience Program to see if they are a good fit. 

🔐The increasing number of amazing VET opportunities on Campus is increasing the employability of our students when they leave Nazareth. 

🔐Lifelong learning is at the heart of what we do at Nazareth. We provide a safe, engaging space that celebrates students’ ability to learn new skills and develop a love for learning in areas of interest. 

So, whilst the news and social media may be focussing on AI and its negative impact on employment opportunities, let’s remember that Nazareth College is helping our students to be prepared for a world with amazing pathways to success. 

Spotlight on Work Experience

It took a while, but I was recently accepted to participate in a work experience organised by the ADF. As a Year 10 student, it really opened doors to a few careers in the Department of Defence, and this experience made me think about joining in the near future. I travelled up to the Puckapunyal Military Area and stayed for 3 nights at the National Service Lines, where new soldiers would stay.

During the program, I was able to look into different jobs and careers in the Department of Defence, such as artillery, armour, and other standard infantry roles. I observed live-fire exercises, which showed how the Army does a lot of training and practice in case we are ever called to fight. I was able to take part in physical training to see if I’m at the correct fitness level (somehow) and in a lot of hands-on team activities to help us understand what skills and capabilities are needed in defence.

I am extremely grateful I was allowed to take part in this wonderful experience, and I would gladly do it again. This type of experience builds the closest friendships with strangers you’ve only known for less than a week. I would definitely recommend the Department of Defence for work experience for students who are considering or looking for a career in the ADF and other future opportunities. Attaining the acceptance letter was not easy; however, my advice for future students on work experience is to apply as early as you can.

Alex Vu - Year 10 student

Ms Elena Flodstrom

Ms Theresa Lochery

Ms Naomi Pernar

Careers & Pathways Team