Career & VET Report
Careers News
Important Future Events
Astrophotography Workshop
September 14, 2024
The astrophotography workshop introduces concepts that will assist both the beginner amateur and professional photographer to take stunning photographs of the night sky. Night sky photography is very different to that done in daylight. The afternoon has an array of talks given by experienced and award-winning astrophotographers, with (weather permitting) practical hands-on sessions during the evening at our registered Observatory.
Topics include an introduction to smartphone photography, timelapses, capturing the Aurora Australis, nightscape imaging, deep sky photography and much more.
Youth Aviation Careers Expo
September 14, 2024
Considering a career in aviation or aerospace? Come and talk to professionals from the industry and discover your future career.
Set among the incredible collection of aircraft at the Moorabbin Air Museum, this is a unique opportunity to learn about all aspects of aviation and pathways to achieve your career goals, from pilots to engineers, crew, and more. Also meet the amazing youth and theatre groups that operate from the Museum on the day.
Free entry - bookings essential.
University of Sydney | Online Open Night
September 19, 2024
Domestic students living in regional or interstate areas are invited to the University of Sydney's online Open Night.
Find out about the new Regional and Remote Entry Scheme, the single scholarship application process, and other University of Sydney highlights.
You’ll then have the chance to join dedicated breakout rooms and chat with staff from our faculties, admissions, scholarships, and accommodation, and have all your questions answered about life in Sydney.
Monash | VCE Revision Lectures
September 23 to September 26, 2024
Completing VCE? Monash Science is excited to support students currently studying VCE through a series of on-campus revision lectures. These sessions are designed to reinforce key concepts in the curriculum and will be delivered by a qualified VCE teacher with extensive experience in their subject.
Time: 9.30 am -4.30 pm Maths Methods: Monday 23 September Biology: Tuesday 24 September Physics: Wednesday 25 September Chemistry: Thursday 26 September
NIDA September Spring Holiday Courses 2024 – VIC
September 23 to October 6, 2024
NIDA's Holiday Program offers fun and engaging skills-based training for all ages and aspirations. From 3-week Residency programs to 1-day short courses for adults, children and young people, we have something to offer everyone.
NIE | Future Doctors Australia, Melbourne
September 27 to September 30, 2024
Gaining medical work experience is essential for young people considering a career in medicine. It provides insight into the field, helps develop skills and attributes, and provides networking opportunities. However, obtaining medical work experience can be challenging due to various restrictions such as limited opportunities, safety concerns, and confidentiality issues.
That’s why NIE has developed the “Future Doctors Australia” program. It is an engaging and high-impact 4-day program that provides young people with a unique opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the rare opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will get to learn about clinical specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
- Over 15 hours of face-to-face interaction with leading specialists and clinicians
- Meet current medical students
- Develop advanced communication and team working skills
- Create new friendships with like-minded, highly driven young individuals
- Learn about the admission process into various medical universities in Australia
- Morning tea and lunch included
It Takes a Spark STEM Conference, Melbourne
October 24, 2024
Most conferences currently being offered on STEM, STEAM and Entrepreneurship tend to be targeted towards teachers and involve a series of speakers and the occasional mini-workshops. This conference is designed to be different. This conference is designed by students and teachers for students and teachers.
The intent of the It Takes a Spark STEM Conference is to bring together Students (Year 4 to 10) and Teachers to connect with inspiring industry role models, share their current school based activities and projects using an authentic sharing and experiential model, create networks of teachers and student teams, and solve social justice design challenges.
The participation of the students is as important as teachers as our intent is to ignite, empower and nurture both to be leaders of STEM and Entrepreneurship within their schools. This is a conference designed and led by students and teachers for students and teachers.
Teachers will have both formal and informal opportunities to speak to other teachers who have enacted programs and activities in their schools and get their questions answered.
The workshops and social justice design challenges are all hands-on so students and teachers will experience first-hand what it is like to be part of great STEM and entrepreneurial learning. This will spark new ideas about curriculum and pedagogy.
Free Money - Scholarships
Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarship
Value: $12,700 AUD
Open date: October 2, 2024
Closing date: December 2, 2024
The Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarship is a remarkable opportunity offered to passionate and curious individuals looking to expand their worldview, embrace new perspectives and help build stronger ties between Australia and Asia.
Competitions
2025 Secondary Schools Culinary Challenge
Value: See perks
Each year the Australian Culinary Federation (ACF) conducts a cooking competition for Secondary School Students in each Australian state. This competition is a great opportunity for students with an interest in becoming a chef to gain invaluable contacts within the hospitality industry.
The Respect Competition
Open date: August 1, 2024
Closing date: September 15, 2024
Being respectful to classmates, friends and to the people around us is important. But what does respect mean to you?
We want students across Australia in years 4–9 to show us what respect looks like in your world. Download the storyboard template and use drawings and words to create your story—don’t forget to include the word ‘respect’.
Blue Ocean Student Entrepreneur Competition 2025
Value: Up to $1,000 USD
Closing date: February 16, 2025
The Blue Ocean Student Entrepreneur Competition is a virtual competition that attracts the very best high school-aged entrepreneurs from all over the world.
Every year, thousands of high school students pitch their innovative business concepts to experienced entrepreneurs and business people, receive feedback on their ideas, join a community of like-minded students, and compete for thousands in cash prizes.
Makedo’s 15th Birthday Design Competition
Value: $1,500 USD
Open date: August 1, 2024
Closing date: September 30, 2024
Dust off your party hats, makers. It’s our birthday! To celebrate 15 years of innovation, creativity, imagination and fun with Makedo, we’re giving you the chance to win BIG. Form a team to design and build your future dream house with Makedo tools and cardboard. Document your creative process and submit your entry to be in the running for USD $1,500 and other prizes. Happy making!
Study
Vocational Education
How technology is changing trades
When you think of vocational education, what comes to mind? Mechanics working on cars, electricians wiring houses, or chefs preparing meals in bustling kitchens? While these traditional images still hold true, the world of vocational education is rapidly evolving. Technology is transforming these trades in exciting ways, opening up new opportunities and changing how we think about vocational careers.
Let’s explore how technology is reshaping vocational education and what it means for your future career prospects.
The tech revolution in trades
Gone are the days when vocational careers were seen as low-tech options. Today, technology is an integral part of almost every trade. Here are some examples:
Construction and Engineering
3D printing is revolutionising construction. Imagine being able to ‘print’ entire houses! Building Information Modelling (BIM) software is also changing how buildings are designed and constructed. As a result, construction workers and engineers now need skills in computer-aided design and 3D modelling.
Automotive
Cars are essentially computers on wheels these days. Auto mechanics now need to be as comfortable with diagnostic software as they are with a wrench. Electric and hybrid vehicles are also creating new specialisations within the automotive trade.
Culinary Arts
Even cooking has gone high-tech. From sous-vide machines to 3D food printers, chefs are using advanced equipment to create culinary masterpieces. There’s also a growing need for chefs who can cater to specialised diets and create plant-based alternatives, requiring knowledge of food science and nutrition.
Healthcare
Healthcare technicians are using increasingly sophisticated equipment. From operating MRI machines to managing electronic health records, technology skills are crucial in modern healthcare settings. They are also helping to bring vital healthcare to areas of the world that need them most.
What does this mean for you?
If you’re considering a vocational pathway, these technological advancements offer exciting possibilities. Here’s what you need to know:
New skills are in demand
Along with traditional trade skills, employers are now looking for tech-savvy workers. Skills like coding, data analysis, and proficiency with specialised software are becoming increasingly valuable in vocational fields.
Continuous learning is key
With technology evolving rapidly, the ability to learn and adapt is crucial. Vocational education is no longer just about mastering a specific set of skills – it’s about developing the ability to continuously update your knowledge and adapt to new technologies.
Increased career opportunities
As trades become more tech-focused, new career paths are emerging. For example, you could become a drone operator for construction sites, a 3D printing specialist, or a smart home systems installer.
Higher earning potential
With increased skill requirements often comes higher pay. Many high-tech trade jobs offer competitive salaries, especially for those who can bridge the gap between traditional skills and new technologies.
How can you prepare for this tech-driven future?
If you’re interested in a vocational career, here are some steps you can take to prepare for technology-driven changes:
- Stay curious about technology: Keep up with tech trends in your area of interest. Follow industry news, watch relevant YouTube channels, or join online forums.
- Develop your digital skills: Learn basic coding, get comfortable with different software applications, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new technologies.
- Consider ‘hybrid’ courses: Look for vocational courses that combine traditional trade skills with relevant technology training.
- Seek hands-on experience: Look for internships or part-time jobs that allow you to work with the latest technologies in your chosen field.
- Embrace lifelong learning: Understand that your education won’t stop when you finish your initial training. Be prepared to continue learning throughout your career.
The future is bright for tech-savvy tradespeople
The integration of technology into traditional trades is creating exciting opportunities for those willing to embrace change. By combining hands-on skills with technological know-how, you can position yourself for a rewarding and future-proof career in the trades.
Remember, the most successful tradespeople of the future will be those who can bridge the gap between traditional skills and new technologies. So if you’re passionate about working with your hands but also love technology, a modern vocational pathway could be the perfect fit for you.
Want to know more?
If you’re excited about the possibilities of tech-driven vocational careers, there’s plenty more to explore. Check out our other blogs on vocational education and career pathways here. And don’t forget to talk to your school’s career advisor about vocational education options in your area.
University
Courses for jobs that don’t exist yet: Future-proofing your degree
Ever feel like the world is changing so fast that by the time you finish university, the job you’re studying for might not even exist anymore? You’re not alone. With technology advancing at lightning speed and new industries popping up all the time, it can be tricky to know which university degrees will set you up for success in the future job market. But don’t worry – we have some tips to help you choose a course that will set you up for a future job, even if it doesn’t exist yet.
Why do we need to future-proof our degrees?
The world of work is evolving rapidly. Think about it – jobs like social media manager, app developer, or drone operator didn’t exist 20 years ago. And in another 20 years? Who knows what new careers will be out there! That’s why it’s crucial to choose a university course that will equip you with skills and knowledge that will remain relevant, no matter what the future job market looks like.
Here are some things to look for when considering your future course to ensure it will prepare you for a job that doesn’t exist yet:
Focus on transferable skills
When choosing a university course, look for ones that emphasise transferable skills. These are skills that are valuable across many different industries and roles. Some key transferable skills to look out for include:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Communication (both written and verbal)
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Digital literacy
- Creativity and innovation
- Leadership and project management
Courses that help you develop these skills will give you a solid foundation for a variety of future careers, even ones that don’t exist yet.
Consider interdisciplinary programs
The jobs of the future are likely to require knowledge from multiple fields. For example, a role in sustainable urban planning might need expertise in environmental science, architecture, and public policy. Look for university courses that offer interdisciplinary programs or the flexibility to combine different areas of study. This approach can make you more adaptable to future job market needs.
Embrace technology and data
No matter what field you’re interested in, chances are it will be impacted by technology in the future. Courses that incorporate elements of computer science, data analysis, or digital technologies can give you a competitive edge. Even if you’re not planning on a tech-focused career, having these skills in your toolkit can be incredibly valuable.
Look for courses with industry connections
Universities that have strong links with industries can help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in your field of interest. Look for courses that offer:
- Internship or work placement opportunities
- Guest lectures from industry professionals
- Projects involving real-world problems
- Opportunities to network with potential employers
These experiences can give you valuable insights into how your chosen field is evolving and help you build connections for your future career.
Don’t forget about soft skills
While technical skills are important, don’t underestimate the value of soft skills. Courses that help you develop emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and ethical reasoning can prepare you for leadership roles in the future. These skills are becoming increasingly important in our interconnected, global workforce.
Stay curious and keep learning
Remember, your university degree is just the beginning of your learning journey. The most future-proof skill of all is the ability to keep learning and adapting throughout your career. Look for courses that foster a love of learning and teach you how to acquire new skills independently.
Some future-focused degree options to consider
While no one can predict the future with certainty, here are some degree areas that experts believe will be in high demand in the coming years:
- Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Data Science and Analytics
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Digital Marketing and Content Creation
- Health Informatics
- Robotics and Automation
Remember, these are just suggestions. The most important thing is to choose a course that aligns with your interests and strengths. After all, you’re more likely to succeed in a field you’re passionate about.
Final thoughts
Choosing a university course for a job that doesn’t exist yet can feel daunting, but it’s also exciting. By focusing on developing a broad skill set, staying adaptable, and nurturing your curiosity, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle whatever the future job market throws your way. Remember, the goal isn’t just to prepare for a specific job, but to build a foundation for a fulfilling and adaptable career.
Want to explore more about your study options and future careers? Check out our other blogs here for more insights and advice.
Work
Job Spotlight
How to become a Shearer
Shearers are the backbone of the wool industry. Their job involves using special tools to remove wool from livestock such as sheep, goats, and alpacas. They need to be able to handle animals carefully to ensure a clean and efficient shearing process while looking after the wellbeing of the animals.
If you’re physically fit, enjoy working with animals, and are prepared to live and work in a rural setting, a career in shearing might be perfect for you.
What skills do I need as a shearer?
- Physical fitness & stamina
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Ability to handle animals gently but firmly
- Effective communication skills
- Resilience & toughness
- Not afraid to get dirty
- Methodical & thorough
What does the job involve?
- Prepare animals for shearing by moving them from holding pens
- Select and use appropriate tools for shearing
- Shear wool from animals in one clean piece
- Keep animals calm and comfortable during the shearing process
- Inspect animals for cuts and treat them if needed
- Return sheared animals to pens and perform final checks
- Maintain and clean shearing tools and workspaces
- Use specialised equipment for high-quality shearing of stud animals
What industries do shearers typically work in?
What Career Cluster do shearers belong to?
Most shearers belong to the Maker Cluster, due to their hands-on work with animals and equipment. Makers are our ‘doers’ who get things done, value resilience and hard work, and are generally adaptable and reliable.
What kind of lifestyle can I expect?
Shearers usually work full-time, averaging around 43 hours per week. Part-time opportunities are less common, with only about 36% of shearers working part-time.
The job involves significant physical labour and is typically based in rural or regional areas, so you’ll generally be on your feet all day due to the hands-on nature of the job. You also have to be confident and comfortable handling animals – a gentle but firm hand is essential for this role.
Shearers also generally live where they work, so you’d be living and breathing a country lifestyle. If you’re outdoorsy, like farm work and don’t mind getting a little dirty, you’ll thrive in this role.
How to become a shearer
While no formal qualifications are required, you’ll need to gain relevant experience. This can be taught on the job, but completing courses or vocational qualifications can give you a head-start and make you a more competitive applicant.
To become a shearer, start by completing at least Year 10, with a focus on English, Maths, Biology, and any agricultural subjects if available. Gaining work experience on a farm or in an agriculture-related setting is really important for getting hands-on exposure to animal handling. You might also like to obtain an introductory qualification in shearing or animal handling to make sure you have what it takes for the job.
Once you have the foundational knowledge, you could then start a paid apprenticeship or begin working as an entry-level shearer to gain practical experience and refine your skills.
What can I do now to work towards this career?
If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if a career as a shearer is right for you, here’s a few things you could do right now:
- Get some experience: Try to find a part-time job or volunteer on a farm to learn how to work with animals.
- Get fit: Start exercising regularly to build up your strength and stamina, which will help with the physical demands of shearing.
- Talk to professionals: Contact local shearers or farmers and ask if you can shadow them or learn more about their job.
Where can I find out more?
- Shearing Contractors Association of Australia (SCAA)
- American Sheep Industry Association
- National Sheep Association (UK)
- New Zealand Shearing Contractors Association
Similar careers to shearer
Find out more about alternative careers here.
Jobs & Careers
7 jobs for people who love travel
If you have a passion for travel and exploring new places, why not turn that love into a career? There are plenty of jobs out there that allow you to see the world while earning a living. Here are 7 exciting careers that are perfect for people who love to travel.
Travel Blogger
Travel bloggers share their adventures with the world through blogs, social media, and videos. If you love traveling and have a knack for storytelling, this could be a great job for you. You’ll get to visit new places, take stunning photos, and write about your experiences, all while building a following and potentially earning income from sponsorships and advertising.
How to get there: Start by creating your own travel blog or social media channel. Build a portfolio of your work and gain followers. Many travel bloggers start as hobbyists before turning it into a full-time career.
Flight Attendant
Flight attendants get to travel around the world as part of their job. They ensure that passengers have a safe and comfortable flight, provide excellent customer service, and handle emergencies. This job offers the chance to see new destinations frequently, all while working in an exciting environment.
How to get there: You’ll need to complete training with an airline, which typically includes customer service, safety procedures, and emergency protocols. Being a flight attendant often requires a high school diploma and good communication skills.
Travel Nurse
Travel nurses are healthcare professionals who work temporary assignments in different locations. If you’re a nurse who loves new experiences, this job allows you to explore various cities and healthcare settings while providing essential care to patients.
How to get there: You’ll need a nursing degree and a valid nursing license. Travel nurses usually work with agencies that arrange short-term assignments in different locations.
Tour Guide
Tour guides lead groups of tourists around interesting and historical locations, sharing information and making the experience enjoyable. This job is perfect for people who love meeting new people and showing off their favourite destinations.
How to get there: Depending on the location and type of tours, you might need specific certifications or knowledge about local history and attractions. Many tour guides start with a passion for the area they’re showing and gain experience through local tour companies.
International Consultant
International consultants work with companies or organizations around the world, offering expertise in areas like business, technology, or management. This job often involves travelling to different countries to meet with clients, provide solutions, and manage projects.
How to get there: A degree in your field of expertise, along with experience and possibly certifications, can help you become an international consultant. Strong communication skills and adaptability are key.
Travel Photographer
Travel photographers capture beautiful images of landscapes, people, and cultures from around the world. If you have a passion for photography and love exploring new places, this job lets you combine both interests while working on assignments for magazines, websites, and other media.
How to get there: Build a strong portfolio of your work and consider taking photography courses to hone your skills. Networking and pitching your work to publications or travel companies can help you get started.
Cruise Ship Worker
Working on a cruise ship can be a fantastic way to travel the world while working in a variety of roles, from entertainment and hospitality to management and engineering. Cruise ship jobs offer the opportunity to visit numerous destinations and meet people from all over the globe.
How to get there: Depending on the position, you may need specific skills or experience in areas like hospitality, entertainment, or marine operations. Apply to cruise lines and be prepared for a lifestyle that involves living on the ship for extended periods.
What are you waiting for?
If you love to travel, turning that passion into a career can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re guiding tours, capturing photos, or working on a cruise ship, there are plenty of opportunities to see the world while earning a living. Explore these careers and find the one that’s right for you, and start your journey to a job that lets you travel the globe!
Keen to explore more options? You can read more about different jobs and careers on our website here.
Skills for Work
How to negotiate your first salary
Landing your first job is an exciting milestone, but depending on the role, you might have to negotiate your salary with your manager. When it comes to discussing your salary, you might find it a bit overwhelming, or feel uncomfortable discussing your needs so early into the job. Don’t worry though—we’ve got you covered with all the steps you’ll need to feel comfortable and look professional.
In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of negotiating your first salary so you can confidently advocate for yourself and start your new job on the right foot.
What is salary negotiation?
Salary negotiation is the process of discussing and agreeing on your pay with your future employer. It’s your opportunity to make sure you’re getting a fair salary for the work you’ll be doing. This might sound a bit intimidating, but it’s a normal part of the job application process and something that everyone does at some point in their career.
Step-by-step:
Here’s how you can negotiate your salary without any stress:
1. Find out what’s normal
Before you talk about salary, check how much people in similar jobs usually get paid. You can find this info on job websites or by asking around, but knowing the average salary helps you figure out what’s fair to ask for.
2. Know what you bring to the table
Think about what skills and experiences you have. Even if you’re just starting out, you might have done cool projects or have special skills, or maybe you even did an internship or some work experience that you found through our work database.
If you’ve done anything of note that might relate to your job, mention these when you talk about your salary to show why you deserve a higher pay.
3. Practice what to say
It’s helpful to practice how you’ll ask for your salary so you don’t forget what you wanted to say. If you’re extra nervous, you can even write out a script and practice it with a friend or family member. This way, you’ll feel more confident when you talk to your future boss, which will help show off some more of your valuable soft skills.
4. Be positive and open
When you discuss your salary, keep a positive attitude. It’s not a fight—just a chat. If they offer less than you hoped for, you might consider being open to other benefits like extra vacation days or a flexible work schedule.
5. Get the offer in writing
After you agree on your salary, make sure you get everything in writing. This includes how much you’ll be paid and any extra benefits. This way, you both know exactly what to expect, and you can refer to it in the future if you need to.
Final thoughts and next steps
Negotiating your salary might seem a bit scary, but it’s an important part of starting your first job. By learning what’s fair, knowing your worth, and practicing what to say, you’ll feel way more comfortable asking for a fair pay.
For more easy-to-follow tips on starting your career and finding jobs, check out our other blogs and resources on our website here.
Grow
Personal Skills
8 steps to building resilience
Life can be a rollercoaster, especially when you’re in high school. One day you’re acing your exams, and the next, you’re struggling to understand a new concept. Maybe you didn’t make the sports team you were hoping for, or you had a falling out with a friend. These ups and downs are a normal part of life, but how you handle them can make a big difference in your overall happiness and success. That’s where resilience comes in.
In this blog, we’re going to go over some of the key steps you can follow to build resilience and learn how to deal with life’s unexpected surprises.
What is resilience?
Resilience is like a superpower that helps you bounce back from tough situations. It’s the ability to adapt to challenges, cope with setbacks, and keep moving forward even when things get difficult. Think of it as your inner strength that helps you weather life’s storms.
Why is resilience important?
Having resilience doesn’t mean you won’t face difficulties or feel upset when things go wrong. It means you have the tools to cope with these situations and come out stronger on the other side. Here’s why building resilience is so important:
- It helps you handle stress better
- It improves your mental health and wellbeing
- It can boost your academic performance
- It prepares you for future challenges in life and work
- It helps you build stronger relationships
How can you build resilience?
Building resilience is like working out a muscle – the more you practice, the stronger you get. Here are some practical ways to develop your resilience:
Develop a growth mindset
Instead of thinking “I can’t do this,” try “I can’t do this yet.” Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Remember, every expert was once a beginner.
Practice self-care
Take care of your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise regularly, and make time for activities you enjoy. When you feel good physically and mentally, you’re better equipped to handle challenges.
Build strong connections
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family. Having people you can turn to when things get tough can make a big difference. And remember, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Set realistic goals
Break big goals into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate your progress along the way, no matter how small. This helps build confidence and motivation.
Learn from setbacks
When things don’t go as planned, take time to reflect. Ask yourself:
- What can I learn from this experience?
- What would I do differently next time?
- What are some positive things that came out of this situation?
Practice positive self-talk
Pay attention to your inner voice. Are you being too hard on yourself? Try to replace negative thoughts with more balanced, realistic ones. For example, instead of “I’m terrible at maths,” try “Maths is challenging for me, but I’m working on improving.”
Develop problem-solving skills
When faced with a challenge, take a step back and brainstorm possible solutions. Consider the pros and cons of each option before deciding on a course of action.
Find meaning in difficult situations
Try to see the bigger picture. How might this challenge help you grow or prepare you for future success? Sometimes, our biggest struggles lead to our greatest strengths.
Putting it into practice
Building resilience takes time and effort, but it’s a skill that will serve you well throughout your life. Here’s a small exercise to get you started:
Think about a recent setback or challenge you faced. Write down:
- Three things you learned from the experience
- Two ways you could approach a similar situation differently in the future
- One positive outcome that came from the challenge
Remember, everyone faces difficulties at some point. What matters is how you respond and grow from these experiences. By working on your resilience, you’re preparing yourself to handle whatever life throws your way – in high school and beyond.
Want to learn more?
If you’re interested in developing more personal skills that can help you succeed in school and life, check out our other blogs on topics like time management, communication skills, and problem-solving strategies. You can find them here.
Health & Wellbeing
How to deal with test anxiety
As a high school student, facing tests and exams can be a major source of stress. It’s completely normal to feel anxious about these assessments, but you need to learn how to manage that anxiety so it doesn’t impact your grades.
If test anxiety is getting the best of you, don’t worry—there are effective strategies you can use to handle it. Let’s explore how you can tackle test anxiety and improve your confidence and performance.
What is test anxiety?
Test anxiety is a type of performance anxiety that can occur before or during an exam. It’s characterised by feelings of nervousness, worry, or fear, which can make it really hard to concentrate and do your best. Test anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as physical symptoms like sweating or a racing heart, or emotional symptoms like self-doubt and panic.
Why managing test anxiety is important
- Improve performance: Managing test anxiety helps you focus better and think more clearly during exams, leading to improved performance and better grades.
- Reduce stress: Effective strategies for dealing with test anxiety can lower your overall stress levels, making school and other areas of life way more manageable.
- Boost confidence: By learning how to handle anxiety, you’ll build confidence in your ability to tackle challenges and succeed in your studies.
Three tips for dealing with test anxiety
Here are three practical strategies to help you manage test anxiety and perform at your best:
1. Prepare & practice
One of the best ways to reduce anxiety is to be well-prepared. Create a study plan that breaks down your material into manageable chunks. Use active study techniques like practice tests, flashcards, and summarising key concepts. The more familiar you are with the content, the more confident you’ll feel.
2. Practice relaxation techniques
Incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine to help manage stress. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can calm your mind and body. Spend a few minutes each day practicing these techniques, and use them during the test to stay calm and focused.
3. Develop a positive mindset
Your mindset plays a significant role in how you handle test anxiety. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations and remind yourself of your strengths and achievements. Visualise yourself successfully completing the test and focus on the effort you’ve put into preparing rather than the outcome.
Additional strategies to consider
Here are a few other simple things you can do to help prevent anxiety in the future:
Establish a routine
Develop a consistent study and sleep routine leading up to the test. Adequate rest and regular study habits can help you feel way more prepared and less anxious.
Seek support
Talk to a teacher, school counsellor, or trusted adult if you’re struggling with anxiety. They can offer advice, resources, and support to help you manage your stress.
Stay active
Regular physical activity can reduce overall stress and improve mood. Incorporate exercise into your routine to help manage anxiety and keep your mind sharp.
Be kind to yourself
Test anxiety is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to control your performance or your well-being. By using these strategies and finding what works best for you, you can manage your anxiety and approach your exams with greater confidence. Remember, it’s not just about the test—it’s about taking care of yourself and your mental health.
For more tips on managing stress and achieving your academic goals, explore our website here.