Careers Corner

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING 

During week 4, senior VET Construction students completed some concreting around the school as part of their competency assessment. These slabs will be used for the placement of benches, adding to shade covered areas where students can gather during break times. Thank you to Mr Healy and these hard working year 11 students for contributing to this project. 

Students who have commenced Year 11 Hospitality should be aware that practical lessons are beginning very soon. As a requirement of this course, students are to wear a full Hospitality uniform, including; chef jacket and pants, neckerchief, white waist apron and hat. Fully enclosed, non-slip leather shoes must also be worn in the commercial kitchen at all times. 

In week 7, year 12 Hospitality students have an excursion planned to Opal Cove at Coffs Harbour. This is a two day industry immersion program with students working across all departments in a busy coastal resort and staying in the resort accommodation. Please use Compass for full event details. 

UNIVERSITY 

In week 4, the travelling University Roadshow visited us and spoke with year 12 about university pathways, entry requirements and student accommodation options. UNE, the University of Newcastle, Charles Sturt University and Southern Cross University were in attendance with enthusiastic student ambassadors who were eager to share their experiences and advice with our seniors. 

If you are considering an application to University, please access this calendar. I will be updating dates for open days, early entry and scholarships as information becomes available. Importantly, the University Admissions Centre (UAC) opens for 2026 domestic preferences on the 2nd of April. If you are also intending to make an early entry application, please feel welcome to discuss this process with Mr Chapman or Mrs Galvin. 

There are many costs involved in pursuing tertiary education. Whether your child is looking to apply close to home or a little further away, this resource is a one stop shop to scholarships. Check it out and see if there is anything relevant to you in 2026 and beyond! 

PATHWAYS 

Last week, O’Connor hosted guests from the Australian Defence Force who spoke to our students about where an ADF career can take them. The presentation included information on entry pathways, Army Reserves, University pathways. 

UNSW are running some free webinars in April aimed at subject selection for year 10 students.Get advice and information that’s specially tailored for Year 10 students, that will help you navigate the HSC subject selection process, explain how UNSW admissions and scholarship applications work, and give you an insight into transitioning into university life so that you can get a head start on planning your future.

Parents and teachers of Year 10 students are invited to join the evening as well as participate in the live Q&A session.

Subject selection info not to miss:

• How subject selection works.
• The possible impact on Adjustment Factors.
• Understanding Assumed Knowledge and Prerequisites.
• Tips for Admission and Scholarships.
• Learn about current students' subject selection experiences and decisions.
• Live Q&A for the duration of the event.

  You can use this link to register. 

Coming up…

Renewable Energy Careers Expo - 18th March. Open to all students with an interest in renewable energy. We will be visiting the Armidale Council for this experience. 

Essential Energy Depot Tour - 2nd April. For any student in years 9-12 interested in an electrical Trade. 

Please see Mrs Galvin if you are interested in either of these experiences. 

For year 12:

University of New England Open Day - 2nd May. 

North West Regional Careers Expo - 14th May. 

See Compass for event details