Senior School

Year 10 Work Experience Program 2026 

Article by Kate Runchiman, Careers Development Leader 

Late last term our Year 10 students stepped beyond the classroom and into workplaces across a wide range of industries, participating in the College's annual Work Experience Program. This valuable initiative gives students the opportunity to explore the world of work firsthand and gain insight into the many pathways available beyond secondary school. 

For many students, the experience was less about confirming a future career choice and more about discovering what different working environments are really like. Whether placed in healthcare, construction, business, education, creative industries, trades, or community services, students were able to observe the day-to-day realities of professional life and develop a deeper understanding of workplace expectations. There were also some surprises – one student was able to get a photo with our Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, after he finished his meal at the establishment where our student was working!  

Throughout the week, students encountered new challenges, responsibilities, and routines. They experienced what it means to contribute as part of a team, communicate professionally, manage their time effectively, and adapt to unfamiliar situations. These experiences help build confidence and provide important context as students begin considering subject selections and future study options. 

After returning to school, students had the chance to reflect on their placements during Pastoral Care sessions to identify the employability skills they demonstrated and observed. Understanding how these transferable skills apply across different industries is an important part of preparing for future career pathways. 

The feedback received from host employers has been overwhelmingly positive. Students were praised for their professionalism, willingness to learn, and positive attitudes. Many employers commented on students' curiosity and readiness to embrace new tasks, while others noted the maturity students displayed when interacting with staff, clients, and customers. We are particularly proud of those students who challenged themselves by entering unfamiliar environments, travelling independently to placements, and adapting to workplace routines. 

This year's placements reflected the broad range of interests and aspirations across our Year 10 cohort. Students gained valuable experience in health and allied health settings, including hospitals, specialist respiratory services, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, myotherapy, and a variety of healthcare practices. Others explored careers in education through placements in primary schools and kindergartens.  

The built environment and trades were strongly represented, with students working in architecture, building and construction, cabinet making, engineering, landscaping, and in various roles within parks and gardens. Students interested in business and commerce undertook placements in finance, banking, real estate, logistics, and with major professional services organisations, including a Big Four firm. As usual, Veterinary clinics and automotive workshops and automotive sales centres were popular. 

A number of students pursued opportunities in specialist and creative fields, including law and legal services, aviation, community radio, and cultural institutions such as the Melbourne Museum, while our local member of parliament also hosted an Overnewton student in their electoral office. Unique placements were also undertaken within the sporting industry, including at an AFL football club, and at the MCG. 

The success of the program relies on the generosity of employers and community members who welcome our students into their workplaces. On behalf of the Careers Team, we extend our sincere thanks to all host organisations, families, alumni, and members of the College community who supported this year's program.  

We encourage families to continue discussing the week's experiences at home. Conversations about what students enjoyed, what surprised them, and what they learned about themselves can provide valuable insights as they begin to think about future study and career options.

Echoes of China Excursion 

Article by Sunny Huang, Head of Languages 

On Tuesday 23 June, our Senior School Chinese students embarked on an exciting Chinese Language and Cultural Immersion Day in Melbourne's CBD, where authentic, real-world experiences brought classroom learning to life. 

Students were grouped across Years 10, 11 and 12, fostering meaningful connections and collaboration between year levels. Throughout the day, they completed a series of engaging language and cultural challenges before participating in two interactive workshops at the Chinese Museum. These hands-on experiences deepened their understanding of Chinese history, traditions and contemporary culture while providing valuable opportunities to apply their language skills in authentic contexts. 

“As part of the itinerary, half of our group visited Pop Mart to take part in an interactive scavenger hunt. I really enjoyed searching for and locating specific items throughout the store, documenting our findings with photos, and communicating directly with the store staff. After successfully completing the scavenger hunt, our teachers surprised us with small collectible characters to commemorate the experience.” 

- Banjot S

“We went to various areas, such as Shanghai Street Dumplings - a Chinese breakfast restaurant. We practiced ordering a meal in Chinese, and teachers shared Chinese savoury donuts with us, called ‘youtiao’, which were really yummy. After that, we went to the Chinese museum and learnt how to play Mahjong, and we made lanterns using the Chinese red packets (hongbao)! In the afternoon, we split up into different groups and went on a scavenger hunt inside a small store. It was so fun looking around the store and trying to find all the small items. Overall, the day was so much fun and I’m glad we got the opportunity to have this amazing excursion!” 

- Nithara A  

“My favourite part had to be the Mahjong (majiang) workshop! There, we learnt the rules of mahjong, how to play the game and about the different types of tiles in a Mahjong set. I really enjoyed playing against others, and our competitive sides quickly came out. At the same time however, we worked together to help one another learn and become familiar with this new game. It was lots of fun!” 

- Evie P

“The morning trip to Pop Mart was excellent! We looked at popular Chinese gifts like Blind boxes which we have learnt in class that Chinese people gift to give to friends and family.” 

- Harper T 

Each fortnight, the College Careers Team publishes a newsletter providing students and parents with the most up-to-date career information, events and opportunities.  

Please access via the following link.