CAREERS
The Minister for Skills, TAFE & Tertiary Education Drops by.
We were proud to welcome Mr Steve Whan, NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, accompanied by our local MP, Mr Clayton Barr, for a special visit to Kurri Kurri High School. The visit provided an exciting opportunity to showcase our specialised learning areas, including a tour of our new Fitness Hub and a sneak peek at our soon-to-be-completed kitchen facilities.
The Minister also took time to meet with students involved in our VET and SBAT programs. Their conversations went beyond coursework, touching on the wide range of support available to students at KKHS. We’re pleased to say that our guests left with a strong impression of the great things happening at our school!
Finalist for the 2025 NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year!
On Thursday, June 12 at Newcastle City Hall, we proudly celebrated Georgia S., a Year 12 student and a school captain, was honoured as a finalist in the prestigious 2025 Hunter & Central Coast Regional Training Awards.
Georgia was nominated in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year category, a testament to her exceptional dedication and achievements in vocational education and training.
Georgia is currently undertaking a School-Based Traineeship, working towards a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance through TAFE NSW. Her commitment to balancing both her academic studies and practical training exemplifies the qualities these awards aim to recognise.
Although she did not take home the top award, being selected as one of only three finalists from a region spanning the Central Coast to Muswellbrook is a remarkable accomplishment. Georgia's hard work, perseverance, and passion for her field are truly inspiring.
If you see Georgia, please join us in congratulating her on this significant achievement. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all students pursuing vocational education pathways.
Careers Week
Students at KKHS are fortunate to have an incredibly dedicated Careers Teacher, so when Education Week fell earlier this term, some of our Year 10 students put this video together:
EPP Espresso & Excellence in Hospitality
A Valuable Experience for Year 10 Students Recently, a group of our Year 10 students had the opportunity to take part in the Espresso and Excellence in Hospitality Program – a two-day experience designed for those with a strong interest in the hospitality industry and a potential pathway into VET Hospitality in Year 11.
The program kicked off with a Barista Course held at Kurri Kurri TAFE on Thursday, 15th May, where students gained hands-on skills and insights into the industry. It was a fantastic experience that allowed participants to explore future career options while developing practical hospitality skills.
TAFE YES Program – Real Skills, Real Experience
This term, a number of our students have been actively participating in the TAFE YES (Youth Engagement Strategy) Program, gaining hands-on experience across a range of industries.
The program provides students with the opportunity to explore different career pathways, develop practical skills, and build confidence in a real-world learning environment. Whether it’s construction, automotive, beauty, health, or hospitality, our students have been making the most of this fantastic opportunity to discover their interests and future options.
We’re incredibly proud of their enthusiasm, commitment, and the way they’ve represented Kurri Kurri High School in the wider community. Well done to all involved!
Uni STEPS Music Production Workshop – A Hit with Students!
Earlier this term, a group of students had the exciting opportunity to attend a Music Production Workshop at the Conservatorium of Music. This dynamic, hands-on experience took students through the full music creation process – from the first beat to the final mix.
With access to industry-standard equipment and expert guidance from the music team, students gained valuable insight into the world of music production. Whether they were budding beatmakers, future producers, or simply music enthusiasts, the workshop offered a chance to learn, create, and be inspired.
It was an especially valuable experience for students considering Music as an elective in Year 9, helping them explore their passion and potential in the music industry.
EPP TAFE Start Your Future – Term 2 Success
This term, several of our students have been participating in the TAFE Start Your Future program, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a range of industries. The program is designed to help students explore potential career pathways while building real-world skills and confidence.
We’re proud of the way our students have embraced this opportunity and represented Kurri Kurri High with enthusiasm and commitment.
Senior Pathways Presentation – Newcastle Uni Visit
We had the pleasure of welcoming a Newcastle University Ambassador to Kurri Kurri High School to speak with our Stage 6 students about alternative pathways to university.
The presentation provided valuable insights into entry options beyond the traditional ATAR route, including enabling programs, early entry schemes, and the range of support services available to help students succeed.
It was a fantastic opportunity for our senior students to ask questions, explore their options, and gain confidence in their post-school plans. We thank Newcastle Uni for their ongoing support of our students' futures!
EPP Head Start Success for Year 10 Students
This term, a group of our Year 10 boys successfully completed the Head Start Program, a fantastic vocational training initiative that allowed them to gain real-world skills and explore future career pathways.
Over several weeks, the students participated in pre-vocational training, completing nationally recognised units in areas such as construction, automotive, and electrotechnology. They also had the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and learn more about what’s involved in pursuing a trade career.
The program gave students a valuable head start towards a potential School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT) or full-time work in their chosen industry. We’re incredibly proud of their commitment and enthusiasm – they represented Kurri Kurri High with pride!
Careers Expo – Exploring Future Pathways
Earlier this term, students from Kurri Kurri High School attended the 2025 Careers Expo at Maitland Basketball Stadium, an exciting event that featured over 200 exhibitors from a wide range of industries, training providers, universities, and employers.
Students had the opportunity to explore career and study options, ask questions, collect resources, and make valuable connections to support their post-school planning. It was a fantastic day that opened up possibilities and sparked inspiration for many of our students as they consider their future pathways. Well done to all students who attended and engaged so positively throughout the day!
Year 9 Uni Steps – Work Ready Workshop
This term, our Year 9 Uni Steps students took part in a Work Ready Workshop held on-site at Kurri Kurri High School. The workshop focused on preparing students for future employment, with practical activities designed to build their confidence and job-readiness.
An external employer joined the session to run mock interviews, giving students the chance to practise their interview skills and receive real-world feedback. The workshop also covered key topics such as resume tips, workplace expectations, and communication skills.
It was a valuable experience that gave students a clearer understanding of what employers look for and how to present themselves professionally when seeking a job. Well done to all involved!
HNE Health SBAT Applications
Congratulations Year 10! This term, six of our Year 10 students applied for the highly competitive Hunter New England Health School-Based Traineeship (SBAT) Program. With over 200 applications received from students across the Hunter region, we’re incredibly proud to share that all six Kurri Kurri High applicants have progressed to the interview stage!
The students worked hard to complete detailed applications, showcasing their interest in the health sector and their readiness to take on this unique opportunity.
We wish them the very best of luck in their upcoming interviews – you’ve already made us proud!
Year 10 Uni Steps – Tourism & Entrepreneurship on Campus
Our Year 10 Uni Steps students recently took part in an exciting on-campus experience focused on Tourism and Entrepreneurship. Hosted by the University of Newcastle, the day allowed students to step into the shoes of a university student and explore the dynamic worlds of business, tourism, events, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Throughout the day, students rotated through four hands-on activities, from planning dream destinations to pitching big ideas. Each session was designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and inspire the next generation of changemakers and innovators.
It was an eye-opening and engaging experience, giving students a taste of university life and future career possibilities.
Explore. Create. Lead. Your future starts here.
Stage 6 – Schools Visit Day at the University of Newcastle
Stage 6 students recently had the opportunity to attend the Schools Visit Day at the University of Newcastle – an inspiring day that took learning beyond the classroom and into the heart of university life.
Students experienced what it’s like to be a first-year uni student by attending program presentations, joining a guided campus tour, and engaging with academics and current student ambassadors. The day provided valuable insight into study options, university facilities, and the overall student experience.
It was a fantastic opportunity for students to explore their interests, clarify their program preferences, and begin shaping their post-school pathways with confidence.
Year 7 Uni Steps – On-Campus Discovery Day
Our Year 7 Uni Steps students recently took part in the On-Campus Discovery Day at the University of Newcastle – an exciting opportunity to experience university life firsthand!
Throughout the day, students explored the university campus and participated in four engaging, hands-on workshops, each designed to spark curiosity and introduce a wide range of future study and career pathways. From science and technology to creative industries, students got a real taste of what uni life is all about.
It was a fun and inspiring day that encouraged students to start thinking about their futures and the endless possibilities ahead. Well done to all who attended!
Pathways Evening – Supporting Year 10 into Stage 6
Year 10 students and their parents/carers were invited to attend our Pathways Evening – an informative session focused on helping families understand the wide range of options available as students prepare for Stage 6.
The evening covered key areas such as School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs), subject selection, TVET, and VET pathways. It provided a valuable opportunity for parents and students to ask questions, gain clarity, and gather resources to make informed decisions about future study and career directions.
The event was a great success, with strong attendance and positive feedback. Thank you to all who came along to support our students as they begin planning their senior school journey!
EPP Drones in Agriculture – Hands-On Learning Opportunity
A group of our students will soon take part in an exciting Drones in Agriculture training course, designed specifically to introduce modern farming technology and precision agriculture techniques.
This one-day face-to-face course—paired with pre-course online learning—will teach students how to safely operate drones to collect important on-farm data. This includes skills in fertiliser planning, crop and weed management, and water efficiency monitoring.
Delivered by an experienced drone operator and aligned with nationally recognised competencies, this is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in agriculture, technology, or both. We’re proud to support future-focused learning at Kurri Kurri High!
First Aid Certified – Students Building Life-Saving Skills
This term, a number of our students successfully completed their First Aid Certificate, gaining essential life-saving skills and knowledge that will benefit them both in and out of the workplace.
The course covered vital topics such as CPR, responding to emergencies, treating injuries, and managing health incidents, equipping students with the confidence to act in critical situations. These skills are not only valuable for future employment but also for everyday life.
Congratulations to all students who participated and took this important step towards becoming work-ready and responsible members of the community!
EPP Hunter Tourism Explorer – Discovering Careers in Tourism
Recently, a group of our Year 10 and 11 students took part in the Hunter Tourism Explorer, a one-day immersive experience designed to showcase the exciting career pathways within the tourism and event services industry in the Hunter Valley.
Throughout the day, students visited key local destinations including Hunter Valley Gardens, Roche Estate, and connected with industry leaders from Balloon Aloft, Stay n’ Sip, and the Roche Group. They gained valuable insights into careers in event management, guiding, retail, accommodation services, and more.
The day concluded with information about further training and employment opportunities through TAFE NSW, the University of Newcastle, and potential School-Based Traineeships (SBATs) and work placements – including a chance to get involved in the Mega Creatures event.
It was a fantastic experience that opened up real-world possibilities and inspired students to consider their future in the vibrant tourism and events industry.