PATHWAYS REPORT

Accounting Week 2026

All Year 10 students attended a presentation delivered by the Murray Mallee Local Learning & Employment Network (MMLLEN), in partnership with local accounting firms. The presentation provided students with information about the “Set Your Heart on a Career in Accounting & Financial Services” Work Experience program, which is scheduled for Term 3, Tuesday 1st –4th of September. This is an additional work experience week for all our interested Year 10 students.

The program has been developed by accountants and financial institutions in Swan Hill to support secondary students who are interested in exploring career pathways within the financial services sector. Students who are successful in gaining a placement will work alongside industry professionals and participate in a structured program designed to give them valuable insight into accounting and related occupations.

A big thank you to: 

• Adam Laughlin – Pooles Accountants & Tax Specialists Pty Ltd
• Andrew Gilchrist – Logan and Hall 
• Ashley Edwards – GMG Financial Group 
• Annelie Foskett – Dodgshun Medlin 
• Janine Daniels – PDF Accounting

They shared real insights into careers in accounting and what the students could expect if they are accepted into the program.

Interested students need to return their expression of interest form back to the pathways office before the end of Term 2.

Year 9 Students Explore Future Pathways at VET Taster Careers Expo

On Wednesday 20 May, our Year 9 students, along with our Year 11 and 12 VM/VPC students, attended the 2026 Murray Mallee VET Taster Careers Expo at the Grain Shed. This excursion played an important role in preparing students for the upcoming Subject Expo and subject selection process.

Students had the chance to connect with a wide range of exhibitors representing industries such as Accounting, Agriculture, Automotive, Community Services, Hair and Beauty, Hospitality and Cookery, Health, Engineering and IT. They also spoke with TAFE/RTO providers and apprenticeship support organisations, gaining valuable insight into training options and future career pathways.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was the opportunity for students to have genuine conversations with industry professionals. Many of our Year 9 students shared that the experience helped them decide whether they would like to pursue an external VET subject in Year 10.

Our Year 9 Pathways classes will continue to build on this experience as students begin preparing for subject selection, which opens on Friday 29 May.

For our senior VM/VPC students, the expo was equally valuable. It provided a chance to explore post-school pathways, speak directly with employers, and begin conversations about Structured Workplace Learning and School-Based Apprenticeships.

A highlight of the day was the food prepared by our very own Cookery students, which was enjoyed by all and showcased the fantastic work happening within our Cookery classes here at SMMC.

We would like to thank the Murray Mallee LLEN and all exhibitors for creating such an engaging and worthwhile experience for our students.