Welcome to Pathways and Careers 2026!

Mr Paul MacCallum, Pathways

Welcome back to all returning families and a very warm welcome to those joining St Stephen’s Catholic College. As the college Pathways team we are privileged to be able to work with students, staff and parents/carers across the College. The area of career development and preparation for the world of work is, I believe, at the heart of what we do here at St Stephen’s Catholic College.

Week 5 already!!

It has been a busy start with a positive increase in the number of enquiries and drop ins from students around the following areas:

Work experience opportunities (for Yr 10, 11 and 12 students)
General pathway and career advice
Subject choices and swaps (mainly for Year 11 and 12 students)
Help with Resume writing and job applications
School-based apprenticeship and traineeship commencements (across Year 10, 11 and 12)
The commencement of TAFE At School programs for Year 11 and 12 students (28 x Yr 11/12 students this year)
University courses and applications for 2027

As the primary “career influencers” I have also enjoyed meeting with new (and returning) parents/carers around many of the above topics, whether it be by phone, email or face-to-face.

Pathway and Career Information Noticeboard

The new Pathway and Career Information Noticeboard, available through the College website (under “Links”), is providing greater access to information for students, parents/carers and staff. Information is added regularly so please make sure you check this often.

Work Experience

These placements are invaluable. Students across Years 10 -12 are encouraged to plan for, and complete, at least one period of school-sanctioned work experience. Further information can be found on the Pathway and Career Information Noticeboard. Work experience can provide a “reality check” that no textbook or website can offer, helping students make informed choices around their future pathway. The students below completed work experience over the 2025/2026 school holiday period.

L – R: Abby – Atherton Hospital, Nursing; Grace – Atherton Hospital Pharmacy; Isabella – Tropical Vets Atherton; Katalina – Central Vets Mareeba; Emanuel – Casalis Mareeba.

SATs – (School-based Apprenticeship/Traineeship)

Combining work and school is an attractive way for some students to complete their secondary schooling. Several of our students have recently signed their training contracts meaning they are now earning and learning and working their way towards a nationally recognised qualification as well as their Queensland Certificate of Education (or “QCE”). This pathway is a brilliant way to start a career early and gain a competitive edge in the job market. All the best to the following students.

L to R: Celeste Yr 11, Cert 3 in Dental Assisting T/ship, My Mareeba Dentist; Cody Yr 11, Cert 3 in Automotive Sales - Parts Interpreting A/ship, Honeycombes, Tolga; Harry Yr 10, Cert 3 in Carpentry A/ship, MRJ Construction, Mareeba; Jacinta Yr 11, Cert 3 in Business T/ship, BJS Plumbing and Civil Contracting, Atherton; Addison Yr 10, Cert 3 in Carpentry A/ship, B and M Constructions Port Douglas; Harrison Yr 12, Cert 3 in Engineering - Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic A/ship, Casalis Mareeba.

Tip: University, Training and Apprenticeship/Traineeship Options – staying up to date.

The amount of information available on university, training and apprenticeship/traineeship options is obviously “mind blowing”. How do we stay informed? How can I be the first to find out? One tip (besides “just google it”) for staying up to date and not missing out on valuable information like open days, course options, etc is to register or subscribe to websites of interest, or to “bookmark” them. For example:

James Cook University has “Keep me up-to-date”.
CQU has Stay In Touch.
TAFE Qld has Contact Us.
ERGON Energy has Register For Job Alerts.
MEGT has Register Now for their job board.

Advice for the Students and Parents/Carers

Regardless of where students (and adults!!) are at, it can be helpful to remember some key points of advice:

1. Stay Curious and Open-Minded

The world of work is changing faster than ever. Many of youwillend up in jobs you haven’t even considered. Don’t feel pressured to have a "final answer" to the (often unhelpful) question "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Instead, focus on exploring different types of work and identifying the tasks you enjoy. As they say, career development is a marathon, not a sprint.

2. Focus on Transferable Skills

Employers today aren't just looking for technical knowledge; they want transferable skills. Think about how your participation in sports, drama, or part-time work builds your communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities. These are the tools that will stay in your "career toolbelt" forever.

3. Build Your Professional Profile Now

It is never too early to start a professional resume. Even if you haven't had a "real" job yet, including your volunteer work, school leadership roles, and academic achievements shows initiative. If you need help drafting your first resume and cover letter, please come and see me.

4. Explore and Research Your Options

This isn’t just for Senior students! Get exploring and researching! Now is a good time to consider “pre-requisites”. Lots of university courses (especially), apprenticeships, training, courses and jobs require applicants to have attained or completed subjects or training options prior to being considered for entry. Attending Open Days, Career Expos, come-and-try days, etc, is also a great way to gather valuable information for making informed career decisions.

Looking Ahead

The Pathways Department is always open to specific questions, brainstorming, appointments, chats and formal planning meetings so please do not hesitate to get in contact...and, keep an eye on the Pathway and Career Information Noticeboard.

All the best for the year ahead.

Paul MacCallum | Pathways Officer (Mon - Fri)

pmaccallum@cns.catholic.edu.au

Melissa Tressidder | Project Officer - Transition (Wed)

mtresidder@cns.catholic.edu.au