Parkdale Secondary College Newsletter

Careers Corner

by Laura Della Fortuna

Course Selections

 

Thank you for your support in engaging with us during the Course Selection Process.

We have now completed information evenings, online and face to face sessions for students across years 8-11 and are finalising the process of completing our planning for 2026 classes.

 

Students will be advised of their 2026 timetables in early Term 4. 

 

At each year level, the Pathways team have devised and developed rigorous preparation programs for students to complete ahead of subject selections and we would like to extend our thanks to parents and carers for supporting us to ensure these processes were completed in a timely manner.

 

As always, the Pathways team are available to support students in making further decisions. Bookings for one on one or small group meetings can be made by visiting the Pathways office and signing up to an available timeslot. 

 

VTAC webinars for students applying to university

 

VTAC has launched a webinar series for students for 2025 covering popular topics relating to university applications.

 

All webinars will be published to YouTube after the session for students to access if you are unable to make it live. 

 

Click here  for the schedule and to sign up

 

Apply to Uni Guide 

 

A guide to university applications for students commencing study in 2026. 

Created by Study Work Grow Pty Ltd in 2025.

 

Job Spotlight

 

How to become a Visual Merchandiser

Visual merchandisers create eye-catching store displays and layouts to attract customers into retail settings and maximise sales. They use colours, lighting, props, and products to influence how people experience and interact with brands.

 

If you have a great sense of style, love retail, and enjoy creating spaces that capture people's attention, a career as a visual merchandiser could be right for you.

 

What skills do I need as a visual merchandiser?

  • Creativity and imagination

  • Customer focused mindset

  • Strong attention to detail

  • Good understanding of colour and design

  • Excellent communication skills

  • Great time management skills

  • Can cope with the physical demands of the job

  • Flexibility and adaptability

 

What does the job involve?

  • Design and create displays and in-store layouts

  • Choose colours, lighting, and props that enhance products

  • Decide which products are to be displayed and where

  • Install, maintain, and pack up displays

  • Plan seasonal campaigns and product launches

  • Collaborate with your team on promotional campaigns

  • Manage budgets for display materials and props

  • Keep up to date with trends in fashion, design, and retail

 

What industries do visual merchandisers typically work in?

  • Retail Trade

  • Professional, Scientific and Technical Services

  • Manufacturing

 

What Career Cluster do visual merchandisers belong to?

Because the goal of their work is to connect customers and drive sales, visual merchandisers primarily fall in the Linker Cluster. Innovators may also enjoy the design aspect of the role, while Makers might be drawn to the more hands-on parts of the job.

 

What kind of lifestyle can I expect?

This job offers a high amount of flexibility, with around half of all visual merchandisers working part-time. Most work standard business hours, but you might need to work evenings or weekends during busy shopping periods or seasonal changes.

 

The work can be quite physical, involving lifting props, climbing ladders, and moving displays around. Travel is sometimes part of the role, particularly if you work for a large retailer with stores in multiple locations.

 

While visual merchandisers mostly work in retail settings, there are also opportunities in museums, hotels, airports, and other commercial environments.

Visual merchandisers typically earn an average salary, with opportunities for growth as you gain experience.

 

How to become a visual merchandiser

There's no single path to becoming a visual merchandiser, but there are several things you can do to help you break into the field.

 

Many visual merchandisers obtain a qualification in design, visual arts, fashion, or marketing. Courses in interior design, graphic design, or retail management can also be useful.

 

Alternatively, you might like to start in a retail sales position and work your way up. Many visual merchandisers learn about customer behaviour and retail operations while working in other roles.

 

No matter which pathway you take, it's beneficial to build a strong portfolio of work you can show to potential employers. Showing off your design skills in other mediums (like graphic design, photography, fashion design, or even visual arts) is a great starting point.

 

What can I do right now to work towards this career?

If you're still in school and interested in a career as a visual merchandiser, here are some steps you can take right now:

  • Practice at home by creating your own displays - rearrange your bedroom, style a bookshelf, or even help organise your school's display boards.

  • Gain retail experience through casual work or work experience. Understanding how shops operate and customers behave is valuable for any visual merchandiser.

  • Take workshops and short courses in design that can help you build important skills. There are lots of courses you can take online and some for no cost.

 

Where can I find more information?