Pathways and Transition

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 

How to use a marking rubric to plan an assignment – Study Work Grow

7 Work Experience Ideas for Sports-Loving Students – Study Work Grow

Transitioning to University: Autistic Students’ Guide

Whether you're already a university student, about to start, or just thinking about it – congratulations! Getting to this point is a significant achievement, and you should feel proud of yourself. This Guide covers the whole university journey, from navigating disability support to practical strategies for study, sensory needs and avoiding burnout.

Download it HERE.

New Courses at Murdoch University

Bachelor of Applied Social Care

Murdoch University's new Bachelor of Applied Social Care equips students with the skills and knowledge to support individuals, families and communities through meaningful, people-centred work. Combining practical learning with studies in social justice, human rights and ethical care, graduates will be prepared for rewarding careers across the growing community and care services sector.

The Bachelor of Applied Social Care (BASC) will commence in Semester 2, 2027, but students finishing Year 12 this year don't need to wait to start their studies. Students can begin in Semester 1, 2027 by enrolling in one of the BASC's featured majors and completing a tailored first-semester study plan. When the BASC launches in Semester 2, they can simply transfer into the degree, with their completed units credited towards their BASC qualification.

 Major in Human Rights

At Murdoch University, studying Human Rights enables you to turn your passion into global impact. You’ll explore the forces shaping justice and inequality around the world, learning not just the theory, but the practical tools to advocate, challenge injustice, and drive meaningful change. Learn from Professor Simon Adams, an internationally recognised human rights expert with extensive experience working with the United Nations, international NGOs and conflict-affected regions across the Middle East and Africa. Learn more HERE

Notre Dame University: UniLaunch 

UniLaunch is a new micro-credential for ATAR-bound Years 11 and 12 students who already have university in their sights. 

Over two weeks in the January and July school holidays, UniLaunch focuses on the skills that drive success at university: independent learning, academic confidence, university study practices and navigating university life. 

Cost: $450 per student 

Expressions of interest now open! 

Find details HERE.

Notre Dame University: Opportunity Program Scholarship – new in 2027

The Notre Dame Opportunity Program is a coordinated program of scholarships, grants and personalised support designed to help students succeed throughout your university journey - from your first day at Notre Dame through to graduation. Whether you need financial assistance, academic support, help preparing for your career, or someone to talk to, the Opportunity Program brings together the support available to help you find the support that’s right for you.

Apply to be considered for up to $20,000 in financial support throughout your degree. Applications open October 2026. To find out more and apply, visit www.notredame.edu.au/opportunity-program or contact scholarships@nd.edu.au.

Enrolments are open -WAAPA Summer School 2027

WAAPA Summer School is BACK!

11 – 22 January 2027

Now that WAAPA has moved to its new building in the city, WAAPA will be bigger and better than ever for students in Years 7 – 12. 

Available Summer School courses 2027 Program:

• Music Theatre Kickstarter
• Acting on Screen
• Dance Squad
• The Actor’s Studio

• Jazz Summer School

   

Earlybird Price closes 16 December 2026. Find details HERE

TISC 

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.

TISC Important Dates

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.

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 date is:

• Saturday 12 December

For more information and eligibility requirements, visit the Law Start website.

New Bachelor of Health Sciences at Curtin

Curtin has launched a new Bachelor of Health Sciences for students commencing in Semester 1, 2027. 

The course offers two majors, giving your students the opportunity to focus on either Health Promotion or Health Services. 

The Health Promotion major is ideal for students interested in working with communities and organisations to improve health equity, prevent illness and address the factors that influence people's health. 

The Health Services major focuses on how healthcare is planned, managed and delivered. Rather than working directly with patients, your students can learn how to strengthen healthcare services and support healthier communities.  

Find details HERE

New Bachelor of Osteopathy Honours

Edith Cowan University is the first and only university in Western Australia to offer a degree in osteopathy.

The new Bachelor of Osteopathy Honours has been developed in close consultation with Osteopathy Australia, to prepare students for registration as an Osteopath. The course will welcome its first cohort of students in Semester 1, 2027.

Students enrolled in ECU's four-year degree will undertake at least 500 hours of clinical placement, gaining real-world experience with a range of healthcare providers.

Find out more HERE. 

ANU Pathways – Pathway Diplomas 

Pathway Diplomas are a pathway to an ANU Bachelor program. Students will spend one year building the skills and confidence while studying alongside Bachelor students, then progress into the second year of an aligned ANU Bachelor degree. ANU has three diplomas commencing in 2027 that align to 11 Bachelor degrees.

Find out more about the ANU Pathways Diplomas HERE.

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.

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. 

• Good Universities Guide
• Curtin
• ECU
• Murdoch
• Notre Dame
• UWA 

• Bond University 

   

Get Five tips for a strong scholarship application. 

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

• The Country Education Foundation
• Commonwealth Teaching Scholarship
• Indigenous Pathways Portal.
• ADCET Scholarships for people with disability

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

2027 Scholarships for women aged 17 - 20, who are commencing an applicable STEM related University degree in 2027 

To create more opportunities for young women in STEM, ACS Foundation launched the Women of STEM Scholarship Programme in 2023. These scholarships support women aged 17–20 who are entering their first year of a relevant STEM degree at an Australian university.

The eligible degrees are determined by our donors. For 2027, students commencing studies in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cyber Security, Data Analytics, AI, Astrophysics, Astronomy, Engineering and Environmental Sciences are eligible to apply.

The Women of STEM Scholarship is a national program that provides financial support of $5,000 per year for the duration of the recipient’s degree, up to a maximum of five years. In 2026, we awarded four scholarships to outstanding female students.

Applications open on Friday 18 December 2026. 

Learn more here: HOME | Women of STEM

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

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 and who receive an ATAR of 96+ will automatically be considered.

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.

TAFE Applications NOW OPEN for 2027

Applications for Semester 1, 2027 TAFE courses opened on 3 September. 

North Metro TAFE has these handy application tips on its website:

• Apply early You may need to gather additional information for your application, so give yourself plenty of time to present yourself at your best
• Save the date Make a note of the key dates for TAFE Admissions and save a reminder on your calendar.
• Have a “Plan B” In case you don’t get a place in your first choice of course, consider similar courses at different campuses or lower-level certificates. Enter more than one preference in your application so you have a backup if your first choice isn’t available. You can enter up to four preferences, so make the most of them.
• List all your education history Include all qualifications and courses you have done, even short courses. Don’t worry if these aren’t relevant to the course you’re applying for – include everything.
• List all your work experience Include all voluntary, paid, unpaid and community work. You might also need to provide evidence such as payslips, group certificates and references, so gather this early. Don’t worry if the work isn’t relevant to the course you’re applying for, your experience shows transferable skills that are considered as part of your application.
• Make sure your contact details are correct We will primarily use your email address to contact you, so make sure it’s accurate and checked regularly.
• Don’t leave anything blank Make sure you fill out all the fields on the application and check before you submit.

• Read up about your preferred course to make sure it’s right for you Find out about the course on our website, read the Important Information tab (if it has one) and check if there are any specific entry requirements. Some courses have specific requirements such as pre-requisite units or qualifications, submission of a folio or participation in an audition. To learn more about literacy and numeracy requirements for competitive and non-competitive courses, see the TAFE Admissions Guide (opens in a new tab)  .

   

If you have further questions or need assistance or advice on careers, employment, traineeships and apprenticeships, you can also visit your local Jobs and Skills Centre for help. Applications for all colleges are processed via centralized TAFE Admissions. 

Wall and Ceiling Apprenticeships – TAFE WA

Wall and ceiling fixing is a skilled, in-demand trade in WA, and many students aren't aware it's an option when they're weighing up their post-school choices. Kick start your future in construction – for more information on apprenticeship opportunities in wall and ceiling lining, scan the QR code below or click here.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships Guide - Out NOW!

Access your copy of the Apprenticeships and Traineeships Guide 2026 - School Licensed Edition HERE

2027 Apprenticeships – being advertised now! 

If you haven’t started your apprenticeship or traineeship application for 2027, it is time to get started! 

Go to your local Jobs and Skills Centre for advice and support. 

• Follow the steps on the Jobs and Skills WA Apprenticeships and traineeships page
• Get help from an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider. See the list of providers below. 
• Check out opportunities at major employers like WesTrac, Western Power, Charles Hull Contracting
• Check out opportunities at a Group Training Organisation. These Organisations are available across Australia. 
• Browse active listings on for example:
  •  SEEK Apprenticeships,  
  • Australian Employment Network

Check out the information South Metropolitan TAFE has provided to coach you through your application process. They have written a 4-part guide. Start 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:

• North Metropolitan TAFE 2027 VETDSS Course Guide
• South Metropolitan TAFE 2027 VETDSS Course Guide
• FEC (Fremantle Education Centre)
• Diamond High Performance

• Health Science Hub

   

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.

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:

• Start with a qualification to see potential job outcomes.

• Start with an occupation to understand the training options available.

   

This new dataset provides information that can then be used in partnership with MyFuture to find information about Western Australian opportunities.

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. 

Australian Government School Leaver Program – Year 12 Students

Trainee, Apprentice and School Leaver Programs

About a third of all Australian jobs are government jobs. The variety of opportunities is unmatched by any other employer in Australia.

• Check out the Apprentice Program HERE.
• Check out the Career Starter Program HERE.
• Check out the Australian Federal Police Directions Program HERE. 

Find out about it 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!  

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. 

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 Guide 2026 Out NOW - Year 12 Students 

You can access a copy of the 2026 Gap Year Guide HERE.

Gap Year Opportunities – Youth Ministry

24:7 Youth Ministry is inviting expressions of interest from Year 12 students who may be interested in paid youth ministry roles in 2027. We are seeking faith-filled, enthusiastic young people for part-time and full-time opportunities that may include:

• Leading and supporting parish youth groups
• Facilitating retreats and faith-formation experiences in Catholic schools
• Mentoring young people and developing young leaders
• Working collaboratively with parishes, schools and other Youth Ministers

These roles would particularly suit students considering a gap year, or anyone discerning a vocation to youth ministry, teaching, pastoral ministry or service within the Church. Training, formation and ongoing support will be provided.

Completing the expression-of-interest form does not commit anyone to accepting a position. It simply provides an opportunity to learn more about the available roles and begin a conversation with our team.

Gap Year Opportunities - The Cardoner Network - Year 12 Students

The Cardoner Network has been running volunteer programs since 2012 and became a registered charity in 2019. An Ignatian-inspired organisation, they offer post-school immersions and also longer Gap Year-style placements.

The Two Wolves Abroad program includes Immersion offerings, a shorter experience focused on reflective journeys in our partner community locations around the world. Since its inception, over 400 young adults have participated in these reflective journeys.

Explore their programs and the opportunities further 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