Careers

My first year as a Careers Practitioner at Ballarat High School has been one of growth, of making new connections with students and their families, of making myself known to local industry and leaders and of gaining an understanding of how the school works.   Each day has offered new opportunities to support students explore their ambitions and navigate the evolving world of work. I’m grateful for the warm welcome and look forward to continuing to build these relationships and to empowering students to pursue their potential.

A major focus has been helping students explore their individual strengths, interests and goals. This has been done in a variety of ways including intention interviews, counselling sessions, parent meetings and mock interviews just to name a few. We’ve researched a range of pathways including University and TAFE, apprenticeships, direct-to-work options and referrals to training providers.  I collaborated with teachers, parents and industry representatives to give students a well-rounded perspective on what lies beyond Ballarat High School.

The highlight has been watching students grow in confidence as they make informed decisions. Witnessing their “a-ha” moments as they discover new possibilities has been incredibly rewarding. From one-on-one consultations to career events and workshops, every interaction highlighted the importance of supporting our young people as they build their understanding of the world of work and further study.

Of-course I have to take this opportunity to wholeheartedly thank all my colleagues for being so warm and welcoming, but special mention must go to Ally Dovaston.  Ally has been a constant source of information and support for me this year and I am truly grateful to her for that and for her patience while I learn the ropes of a new school. 

Looking forward, Ally and I are already making plans for 2025 and how we can help another group of students to discover and work towards their dreams, of expanding the opportunities available to them from industry and ensuring no one goes without some kind of Careers and Pathways support. It’s an exciting time to help students navigate the world of careers and we’re both thrilled to be a part of it.

Joanne Parcell

Careers Practitioner