Mrs Kalo Bell – Head of Pathways and Transition; career counselling and pathway planning pathways@johnxxiii.edu.au | 08 9383 0416

Mrs Kelli Beaton – Pathways Assistant; VET and workplace learning coordination pathways@johnxxiii.edu.au | 08 9383 0417

In the Pathways and Transition Newsletter, read about:

What’s new this week?
University News
Training and VET News
Other Pathways News
Career Resources

Kalo Bell

Head of Pathways and Transition

Pathways Picks

This week’s recommended reading

10 questions to ask your future self – Study Work Grow
So, you want to be an electrician. Here are some suggested pathways into electrical trades - In Focus Careers

13 May Combined Schools Careers Expo

John XXIII College students and their families are invited to attend the Combined Schools Future Pathways Careers Expo at Scotch College on Wednesday, 13 May, 5pm to 7pm. Students/families make their own way to and from the event. More details are available via the flyer below - scan the QR code for a full list of exhibitors. This is a great opportunity for students, in particular in Years 10-12, to explore their future careers. Students from any year level are welcome to attend.

14 – 17 May Careers Expo

The only careers event in WA that brings together over 100 organisations. It attracts local and national universities, various vocational and professional training providers, industry associations and employers.

This FREE event is for students, graduates and job seekers, open to everyone of all ages. It’s perfect for anyone pondering their future, seeking personal development, training or employment opportunities. Held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre between Thursday, 14 May and Sunday, 17 May 2026. Find out more HERE.

14 May Defence University Sponsorship Information Session

With Defence University Sponsorship (DUS), they pay you to complete your degree and pay your remaining fees. Earn a salary while studying and walk straight into a great ADF role following graduation. Head to the upcoming information session to speak with current serving military personnel and learn more about the Defence University Sponsorship programme (DUS).

Venue: Perth ADF Careers Centre Level 6, 58 Mounts Bay Road, Perth, Get Directions. Register HERE.

SM TAFE Prepares for AUKUS

South Metropolitan TAFE (SM TAFE) and United Kingdom’s City College Plymouth have formed a new international partnership, supported by the WA Government, to strengthen defence industry skills and support future AUKUS workforce needs.

This partnership builds on joint State and Commonwealth investment in the Defence Industry Skills Centre of Excellence at SM TAFE. The collaboration will focus on sharing expertise and aligning training in key naval and defence areas.

Electrical Trades Information

A practical VET Pathway into the Electrical Trades

From Apprenticeship Support Australia

The Certificate II in Data and Voice Communications (UEE20720) offers students a practical and industry‑aligned VET pathway into the electrical field. Through hands‑on learning, students develop core capabilities such as installing and maintaining telecommunication cabling, working safely with extra‑low voltage systems, assembling components, and interpreting technical drawings—skills that closely support the early stages of electrical trade training. The qualification also includes training aligned with ACMA open cabler registration, giving students a valuable edge when approaching electrical industry intakes and apprenticeship opportunities

For more information on electrical apprenticeships, go to So, you want to be an electrician. Here are some suggested pathways into electrical trades.

Start an Electrical Apprenticeship Early

Apprenticeship Support has joined ongoing efforts to identify pathways for students entering the electrical trades. They recommend that students start with one of these courses:

Cert II in Sustainable Energy
Cert II in Electronics
Cert II in Computer Assembly and Repair.

Electrical Apprenticeship Maths Skills

Electrical apprenticeship Maths tests focus on Years 10–11 level applied Mathematics, covering basic arithmetic, algebra, fractions, decimals, and geometry, with a typical duration of 1 hour 45 minutes. Key areas include Ohm’s Law, cable calculations, and unit conversions. Calculators are generally allowed, and these tests are often used to identify the need for extra support.

Practice Maths tests can be found in the So, you want to be an electrician article/post.

11 May Trinity College, University of Melbourne – Perth Event

Please join our Residential Dean, Leonie Jongenelis, and Recruitment and Admissions Manager, Nerel Ezra, to hear about life at the University of Melbourne and Trinity College.

📍 Where: TRIBE Perth, 4 Walker Avenue, West Perth

🕕 When: 6.00pm, Monday, 11 May 2026

🎟 Price: Free (booking essential)

RSVP by Tuesday, 5 May 2026.

Register here: https://www.trinity.unimelb.edu.au/residential-college/trinity-college-campus-tours/trinity-college-campus-tours-trinity-on-tour

27 May Curtin Year 12 Application Support Webinar

In this online session, the Curtin team will cover admissions, entry pathways and early offers. Students can submit questions during or after the webinar to build confidence in the application process.

Date: Wednesday, 27 May 2026

Find out more HERE.

Year 12 Students – TISC 2027 Brochure

TISC’s 2027 UNIVERSITY ADMISSION brochure: Admission Requirements for School Leavers completing Year 12 in 2026 can be accessed HERE.

Notre Dame Early Offer Program Open - Year 12 Students

Notre Dame University’s Early Offer Program applications open on 1 May via their website: Apply direct to Notre Dame | Notre Dame. The first round of early offers will be released from early September. There are four rounds of Early Offers in total. If a student does not receive an Early Offer, their application will automatically roll into the main admission round for consideration.

For more information about applying and accepting an Early Offer, please refer to the university’s How to apply - Early Offer Program page.

ECU Engineering Scholarship Opportunities for Year 12 Students

Executive Dean Elite Engineering Scholarship

Do you excel academically, display leadership and are considered a great role model for students and others in your community? In school, are you recognised for your commitment to community service and your ability to inspire others? If so, you could be a candidate for ECU’s Executive Dean Elite Engineering Scholarship.

This scholarship is open to all domestic students currently in Year 12 who are Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or the holder of a refugee or humanitarian visa.

You must also:

be completing Year 12 studies (WACE or an equivalent program) in the year you apply
satisfy admission requirements for the intended Engineering Bachelor degree course*
not be receiving any other merit-based scholarship at ECU
plan to be a full-time student studying on-campus at ECU Joondalup

You must submit your completed application and supporting documentation by the closing date of Sunday 18 October 2026 at 5pm AWST.

* Non-eligible courses are: Bachelor of Technology (Aeronautical); Bachelor of Engineering Honours/Bachelor of Commerce; Bachelor of Engineering Honours/Bachelor of Science; and Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Systems) Honours//Bachelor of Computer Science.

More information can be found HERE.

ECU Engineering Excellence Scholarships

ECU is offering scholarships valued at up to $20,000 to high-performing Year 12 students who have achieved an ATAR of 94 or above and wish to study Engineering in 2027. This scholarship will support your study in some of the best-equipped, industry-grade engineering labs in Australia, work on real-world projects, and develop strong contacts through industry engagements, events and internships.

In order to be eligible for this scholarship you must:

be nominated by your School, or you can self-nominate by the deadline;
perform satisfactorily in all of your WACE subjects;
be on target to achieve an ATAR of 94 or above;
nominate an ECU Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) course as first preference on the TISC application;
satisfy admission requirements for the intended ECU Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) course;
not be in receipt of any other merit-based scholarship at ECU;
be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, holder of a Refugee and Humanitarian visa, or New Zealand citizen.

More information can be found HERE.

Curtin 2027 Excellence Scholarship

The Curtin Excellence Scholarship has been developed for students who have demonstrated academic excellence through their ATAR in 2026 and want to pursue study at Curtin University.

Application forms are not required; students apply by selecting an eligible Curtin degree through TISC as their first preference by the scholarship closing date.

Check the details HERE.

Murdoch Scholarship Opportunity for Year 12 Students

Ngala Kwop Biddi - Brighter Futures Scholarship extended for three years

Murdoch is proud to announce that the Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship has been extended for a further three years to support school leavers in 2026-2028. Each WA Secondary School will be able to nominate one of their graduating Year 12 students, who, by their leadership and activity, has effected positive change in their school or community.

The Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship is valued at $12,000. For information go HERE.

UWA Scholarship Opportunities for Year 12 Students

The following scholarships are now OPEN for applications.

UWA Fogarty Foundation Scholarship – closes 15 May 2026

Up to 10 scholarships for WA Year 12 students*
Predicted minimum ATAR of 98+
Valued at $12,500 per year.

*Be enrolled as a domestic student in Year 12 at a Western Australian secondary school at the time of application.

More details and how to apply

UWA Winthrop Scholarship – closes 20 June 2026

Up to 10 scholarships for domestic Year 12 students*
Recognises academic excellence, leadership vision, and community involvement
Achieve an ATAR of 95+
Valued at $10,000 per year.

*An Australian citizen or permanent resident, or holder of a Permanent Humanitarian Visa or a New Zealand citizen.

More details and how to apply

Go to Open Days 2026

All Year 10+ students who want to go to university in WA should go to at least two Open Days:

To the one closest to where you live.
The one with the courses and campus life that will make your life better.

These myfuture tips will help you make the most of open days:

University Open Day Calendar 2026

The University of Notre Dame

2 May

9am – 3pm

Get details HERE.

Edith Cowan University

3 May

ECU South West, Bunbury

Get details HERE.

Murdoch University

23 May

South Street

10am – 3pm

Get details HERE

Curtin University

24 May

10am – 3pm

Get details HERE.

Edith Cowan University

9 August

ECU City

Get details HERE.

2026 Medicine - University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) Dates

If you want to apply for medicine for 2027, you will need to undertake a UCAT assessment.

These are the important dates for UCAT in 2026: Deadline times are 11:59pm AEST - Australian Eastern Standard Time

Concession Scheme opens Access Arrangements open	16 February 2026
BOOKING OPENS	3 March 2026
Concession application deadline	11 May 2026
Access Arrangements application deadline	15 May 2026
BOOKING DEADLINE	15 May 2026
Late booking deadline Late Access Arrangements application deadline	29 May 2026
FINAL late booking deadline	5 June 2026
Cancellation deadline	12 June 2026
Testing begins	1 July 2026
Last testing date	5 August 2026
Results delivered to universities	early September 2026

Sign up for notices on the UCAT ANZ website.

Applying for Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch? Book your Casper Test!

If you’re planning to apply for Veterinary Medicine in 2027, sitting the 2026 Casper test is an essential part of your application. Murdoch University requires all Veterinary Science applicants to complete the undergraduate Casper assessment, with 2026 test dates scheduled for:

14 May
21 June

To book your test, visit: https://acuityinsights.app/

Veterinary Medicine Admissions and Application Process 2027

The 2027 Veterinary Medicine Admissions Guide is now available, and all applicants should review it before applying. It outlines key requirements for entry into Murdoch’s BSc/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program, including completion of the Casper assessment and submission of the official application form. All applications for this program must be submitted through TISC and are due by 31 July 2026.

New Parents’ Guide to University Study released

Each year ECU publishes the Parents’ Guide to University Study. It is easy to read and useful for families who have young people going to any university.

Check it out HERE.

Year 12 Opportunities

Find the huge range of scholarships available

Register for Scholarship Alerts NOW!

You can create scholarship alerts through the Good Universities Guide and through universities.

Get five tips for a strong scholarship application.

There are a number of scholarships available and for a range of industries:

New 2027 Undergraduate Course Guides (WA Universities)

Curtin Undergraduate Course Guide 2027

ECU Undergraduate Guide to Careers & Courses 2027

Murdoch Undergraduate Course Guide 2026/2027

Notre Dame Undergraduate Guide 2027

UWA Undergraduate Course Guide 2027

University Contacts for Future Students

Contact your local university for course advice.

University of Western Australia	Get advice on enrolling, fees, scholarships, exams, academic documents, graduating and more. Email: askUWA, Phone+61 8 6488 3235
Curtin University	Support for applying, exploring entry pathways to Curtin and finding a course that’s right for you. 1300 222 888 Submit an enquiry Book an appointment
Edith Cowan University	Want to know more about any of the courses we offer, or your entry options? Phone: 134 328 Email Future Students: Domestic student enquiries South West Campus and Margaret River Education Campus Telephone: 134 328
Murdoch University	Student Central offers advice and services for future students. Phone: 1300 687 3624 Email studentcentre@murdoch.edu.au
Notre Dame University	If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or visit us on campus. Phone: 1800 878 916 Email: future@nd.edu.au

Offsite Study Options for Year 11 and 12 Students

For students who decide to pursue a senior secondary pathway other than studying 5 or 6 ATAR courses, John XXIII College partners with South and North Metropolitan TAFE Colleges as well as other private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs,) in order to offer Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS.) Our commonly used partners could include:

Co-Payment

Please note that a co-payment will be required for offsite Certificate courses with annual fees exceeding $2000 per annum.

Students and families for whom following a pathway other than studying five or six ATAR courses is of interest are strongly encouraged to make an appointment with the Pathways and Transition team.

Occupations in Agriculture – Career Information Hub

Western Australia is a world leader in many types of agriculture, including world-class research and development of agriculture as climate change evolves. If you’re interested in a career in an industry that makes a difference, check out the new Career Information Hub Career Booklet.

Occupational profiles include: Agronomist; Ag Tech Specialist; Agricultural Worker; Precision Ag Operator; Careers in the Agriculture Supply Chain.

Explore it further HERE.

Jobs and Skills Centre for Apprenticeships and Traineeships

Parents, employers and students can get free, government-funded information and guidance about apprenticeships and traineeships from one of the Jobs and Skills Centres.

If you think a trade or traineeship could be a good pathway for you, go to a Jobs and Skills Centre.

Save money – Choose an apprenticeship on the priority list

Commonwealth Government Funding

The Australian Apprenticeships Priority List identifies courses eligible for fee-free courses and incentives to employers. There are 26 pages of Priority Occupations where there are skills shortages.

You usually have to pay for the tools and equipment needed for the course, but there are no course fees.

State government FREE VET pathways

The West Australian government subsidises VET courses for occupations where we have specific skills shortages. See the Fee-free and low-fee course finder.

Year 12 Information Handbook – Part I OUT NOW!

The School Curriculum and Standards Authority’s Year 12 Information Handbook Part I can be accessed HERE.

The Year 12 Information Handbook is provided in two parts, with Part I for all Year 12 students, including information about:

key dates that are important for you this year
what is involved in the WASSA and the WACE
the student portal and the WACE Checker
equivalences and how they can count towards your WACE
school-based assessment and how it works
examinations (the focus of Part II, available in July)
general advice on life as a Year 12 student.

9 May Science and Engineering Speed Networking

The Women in Technology next STEM Career Speed Networking event will be held at Curtin University and is FREE for all students in Years 10 to 12.

Everyone is welcome to take part as they rotate through rapid-fire conversations with women working across science, technology, engineering and maths. Mentors will share hands-on activities and real tools from their day-to-day work, giving students a tangible, inspiring glimpse into STEM careers and the confidence to imagine their own future pathways.

When: Saturday, 9 May | 9:30am or 11:30am

Where: Level 7 Curtin University Library

Register HERE.

16 May Year 12 Students – Tourism Insights Event

An exclusive opportunity for Year 12 students to experience The Adnate - Art Series Perth, one of Perth’s most prestigious luxury hotels, and explore exciting career pathways within the tourism and hospitality industry.

When: Saturday, 16 May 2026

Register here: Tourism Insights Perth 2026 – The Hotel School

ADF Careers Information Sessions

Are you interested in learning more about a career with the Australia Defence Force? ADF Career information sessions are held at various times throughout the year. Find upcoming events including information sessions, open days, career expos and more - register for the next session by going HERE.

WA Police Recruitment Sessions

Are you interested in learning more about a career with WA Police Force?

Recruitment information sessions are held at the WA Police Force Academy in Joondalup, where you can learn more about the application process and life as a police officer.

Their Recruiting Team will provide an overview of the selection process and training requirements. Register for the next session by going HERE.

Police Cadets

Australian or New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Australian Resident aged between 17 and 19.

Please note, applicants can apply at 16; however, they must be 17 years old upon selection to a Cadet school. Find details HERE.

Gap Year Opportunities with AgCAREERSTART

Consider a Gap Year in the Ag Industry for 2027. You get:

$3000 towards training.
A full-time job.
Tons of support to find out about career opportunities.

Explore the opportunities HERE.

Gap Year Opportunities with ADF Careers

If you're 17-24 years old and interested in experiencing the Navy, Army or Air Force without making a long-term commitment, an ADF Gap Year is an option. It’s a unique opportunity to grow, train, travel, get paid, get a feel for a career in the ADF, and gain skills for life. Find out more HERE.

The Morrisby Profile

All John XXIII College students in Years 10, 11 and 12 have completed their Morrisby Profile (in Years 9 or 10), providing a valuable resource for career exploration and pathway planning. Students are encouraged to log back into their Morrisby Profiles regularly to view new career matches and information. Morrisby can also be a useful tool for facilitating career discussions between young people and their parents.

Troubleshooting with logins, etc, can be directed to Mrs Bell, Head of Pathways and Transition.

MyFuture – your one-stop shop for career information

Do quizzes, watch career videos, check out courses, and what happens when you get into the job. MyFuture takes you on a career exploration pathway.

MyFuture is thorough and delivers loads of free information.
It is supported by ALL Australian governments.
The information is not biased by someone trying to sell you something.
They have a strong privacy policy and DO NOT share your data.

You can register HERE.

Your Career

Search industries and occupations to find a career that’s right for you and what you can do to get there. Take a career quiz. Explore fee-free TAFE. Take an interactive quiz to see what literacy and numeracy skills you’ll use in your chosen industry.

Click HERE to explore.

Kalo Bell

Head of Pathways and Transition

Year 9 Drama Night	Thursday, 11 June, 7:00pm	Roncalli Hall
Year 8 Drama Performance	Monday, 22 June, 4:30pm	Roncalli Hall
Year 9 Musical – Bye Bye Birdie	Thursday, 25 June, 7:00pm	Roncalli Hall
Year 10 Drama Night	Tuesday, 30 June, 7:00pm	Roncalli Hall

Drama

Coming soon

Music and Drama calendar