Careers and Transistion
Epping Students Thrive in Vocational Introduction Programs
We celebrate the success of Epping students who recently completed vocational introduction programs hosted by TAFE NSW in Human Services and Plumbing. These programs have provided valuable hands on experience and insight into these in demand industries, giving students a strong foundation to make informed decisions regarding their workplace, training and career pathways.
The demand for vocational skills in the workforce continues to grow, with significant opportunities available across various trade and service industries. Skilled workers in areas such as electrotechnology, constructions, plumbing and humans services are highly sought after, reflecting strong employment prospects both locally and nationally. With many industries facing skills shortages, students who gain vocational qualifications are well-placed to access rewarding and stable careers.
Building on this success, further TAFE introduction courses are to commence in Term 2, including Electrotechnology, Construction Multimedia, Maritime Industries and Barista Skills. These diverse areas open a wide range of opportunities for students interested in gaining practical skills and exploring vocational pathways beyond school.
If you are keen to discover what a vocational pathway has to offer, we encourage you to reach out to our Careers Office. Exploring options does not commit a student to a post school pathway. Yet the experience empowers them to make informed decisions for their future be it reinforcing a current interest, drawing focus toward direction or a safe redirection away from previously unexpected realities of the workplace. Experience builds wisdom.
Experience Macquarie Days 2026 – Explore University Life Firsthand
For senior students planning their post school pathways, making informed decisions about further study is essential. Experience Macquarie Days 2026 offers a unique opportunity to get a real taste of university life and gain valuable insights into what tertiary education and studying at university is really like.
Event Details: When: Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 April 2026
Time: 9:45 am to 3:30 pm
Where: Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park
During these immersive full day events, seniors will step into the shoes of a university student. They’ll attend authentic lectures and engage in hands-on workshops that showcase practical learning across a range of disciplines. This firsthand experience helps students understand the demands and rewards of tertiary study.
Participants will also have the chance to explore Macquarie’s facilities, including specialist labs, studios, and modern learning spaces. Guided campus tours will reveal where students study, collaborate, and unwind, giving a true sense of university life beyond the classroom.
Throughout the day, students connect directly with academics and current university students, asking questions and hearing about their experiences. They’ll learn about the broad range of support services available to help them succeed, from academic assistance to wellbeing programs.
In addition to educational activities, Experience Macquarie Days feature entertainment, giveaways, and opportunities to get involved with student groups, making it a fun and engaging introduction to university life.
We encourage all senior students to take advantage of this opportunity during the April school holidays. Registrations are required for these limited events and can be made directly through the Macquarie University events page https://event.mq.edu.au/experience-macquarie/
The Value of Part Time Work in Education
Having a part time job during high school offers much more than just extra spending money. When managed well, it provides students with valuable knowledge and skills that support their future learning and career success.
Part time employment gives students a firsthand understanding of workplace expectations, such as responsibility, safety, and professional conduct. These experiences allow them to explore different industries, which in turn help them make informed choices about their career pathways.
Beyond industry insight, part time work develops essential skills in communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving. These transferable skills reinforce school performance while also highly regarded by career employers, training providers, and universities.
Importantly, part time work builds a student’s confidence and independence in themselves. They learn to juggle commitments, take responsibility, and engage confidently with adults and peers in professional settings, preparing them for life beyond school.
Parents play a vital role in supporting their children to find the right balance between work and study. Selecting a part time job that complements rather than competing with school is key. Encouraging reasonable work hours, keeping communication open, and prioritising wellbeing help ensure that employment remains a positive and enriching experience.
When balanced thoughtfully, part time work can be a powerful steppingstone, setting students up for success in their careers, further education, and lifelong learning. I would encourage all families to consider the role part time work can play in the growth of a young person to adulthood.
Mitchell Leggo
Head Teacher, Teaching & Learning
Transition and Community Partnerships
