Careers

Bairnsdale Secondary College is committed to delivering high quality career development services. We are active participants in our local community and have strong links with local industry, education providers and the Gippsland East Local Learning and Employment Network. Our dedicated Career Practitioners are qualified members of the Australian Centre for Career Education and actively support our students in exploring their future career options through a range of tailored services, programs and activities:

Career Counselling Career Action Plans

OH&S Programs Work Experience Program

Structured Workplace Learning Vocational Education and Training

School Based Apprenticeships & Traineeships Excursions & Incursions

Guest Speakers Newsletters

VTAC Support Resume Writing

Senior Careers:

Angela Wren - angela.wren@education.vic.gov.au - 8.30am-4.00pm (Mon-Thurs)

Liz Stevens - liz.stevens@education.vic.gov.au - 8:30am-4.00pm (Mon-Fri)

Junior Careers:

Jaclyn Powell - jaclyn.powell@education.vic.gov.au - 8.30am-4.00pm (Mon-Wed)

Compass and Careers Website Newsfeeds

Student communication about careers and opportunities are updated via the Compass newsfeed pages, and the Bairnsdale Secondary College Careers Website (through Study Work Grow).

Career events, excursions, apprenticeship/traineeship opportunities, guest speakers, etc. are shared with students via these alerts, so please keep an eye out for the latest opportunities.

Bairnsdale Secondary College – Study Work Grow Education

Year 12 Tertiary Education Excursion

Last week 53 of our Year 12 students travelled to Melbourne where they spent two days visiting universities to support decision making around their future careers.

On Thursday we visited Monash and Deakin Universities and finished the day with dinner at Docklands and the challenge of the ‘Prison Island Escape Rooms’. On Friday we visited RMIT and Swinburne Universities. At each University, students toured the campuses and participated in workshops and lectures to give them an idea of what Uni life is like. Students came away feeling enthusiastic about future study and with a more solid idea of where they would like to pursue their chosen courses.

Job Opportunities

AGA Apprenticeship & Traineeship Vacancies 24th June 2026.png

Events

The following events are not Bairnsdale Secondary College events.

Whitehouse Institute of Design

Studio Lighting and Fashion Photography Workshop, Melbourne - 29th June & 21st September

This is a hands-on 1-day workshop designed for aspiring photographers eager to learn the fundamentals of camera settings, studio lighting, and fashion photography. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your technical foundation, this workshop will guide you through the essentials—from mastering manual mode to setting up professional lighting and capturing dynamic fashion portraits. Perfect for beginners looking to expand into the world of studio and fashion photography.

Studio Lighting and Fashion Photography - Melbourne Campus - 29th June

Basics of Studio Lighting and Fashion Photography - Melbourne Campus - 21st September

Fashion Illustration Workshop, Melbourne - 19th September

In this 1-day workshop, you will gain an understanding of how to complete Fashion Illustrations. At the end of this workshop, you will have covered illustration content ready for an application to study a creative degree and receive a certificate of completion. The workshop focuses on the following areas of skill development:

Fashion illustration techniques and methods
Application of pencils, professional markers, and felt-tip pens for professional rendering
Fabric texture and surface rendering
Exploring an individual design aesthetic.

This workshop is for aspiring designers as a starting point for those wishing to develop their illustration skills.

Fashion Illustration Workshop - Melbourne Campus - 21st September

RSPCA, Burwood East

Victoria Animal Attendant Day (13-17 years) - 29th June

Are you interested in a career with animals? Go along to experience some of the work undertaken by animal attendants in the animal care industry. Hear from animal care professionals about what their role involves and the pathway that led them to RSPCA Victoria. Discover the role you can play in helping RSPCA as a non-government charity. They will introduce you to the critical roles of volunteers and foster carers and how you can become involved. Think dogs, cats, rabbits and farm animals - all there waiting to become your new BFF.

Animal Attendant Day (13 - 17 years) Winter

Animal Rescue (10-14 years) - 2nd July

Let’s meet an RSPCA Inspector and discover how our animal police work within the laws to help animals and their owners. Interact with our friendly pets and farm animals to discover how their lives changed thanks to RSPCA staff and volunteers.

What you will learn: Try your hand at solving simulated rescue cases based on real life animal neglect scenarios

What you will get: Certificate of attendance and mini gift bag!

What to bring: Lunch, snack and a drink bottle

What to wear:

Closed in shoes for admittance into the barn
Weather appropriate clothing
A sun hat for outdoor activities

Animal Rescue (10 - 14 years) Winter

La Trobe University

Experience La Trobe, Melbourne - 30th June

Whether you know exactly what you want to study or you're still figuring it out — this is your day.

Experience La Trobe is back this June school holidays and they want you there. Step onto campus, get hands-on in your chosen study area and discover what life as a La Trobe student truly looks like.

On the day you'll get:

Hands-on workshops in your chosen study area
A guided campus tour
The chance to chat with real students and course experts
Free lunch
A La Trobe University pack to take home

Experience La Trobe 2026, Events, La Trobe University

Meet an Enviro Scientist Panel, for Year 7-12 Students - 18th August

Students will hear from La Trobe University environmental scientists and industry professionals from a diverse range of areas including ecology, freshwater and wetland management, restoration climate change adaptation, resource management, and conservation genetics. They will share their expertise, research and pathway to their STEM career. Panellists for this event will be:

Nadia Zerman: Soil microbiologist
Hayley Sime: Botanist
Dr Kerry Fanson: Conservation endocrinologist
Aidan Fitt: Entomologist

After an interactive Q&A panel discussion, participants will have the option to network with the panelists to build valuable connections with both student researchers and established academics. This event is part of the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series, providing free extension opportunities for high-ability students in Victorian Government Schools. Funded by the Department of Education's Student Excellence Program.

Meet an Enviro Scientist Panel (Bundoora Campus), Events, La Trobe University

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

Discover ACU Melbourne

Join ACU for their free Discover ACU Melbourne events, designed especially for Year 10 – 12 students. Guests are welcome to stay back at the end of the event for an optional campus tour.

Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine – 30th June
Step into the ambulance simulator, nursing wards and maternity labs and work with expert academics in an interactive workshop. Discover ACU Melbourne – Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine
Allied Health, Biomedical Science and Sports Science - 7th July
Explore life as an ACU Melbourne student and participate in hands-on workshops led by academic staff. Discover ACU Melbourne - Allied Health, Biomedical Science and Sports Science
Teaching and Education - 8th July
Take part in hands-on workshops, meet education experts, talk to current students about their experience and find out how you can step into the classroom and make a difference in the lives of others. Discover ACU Melbourne - Teaching and Education
Law, Criminology and Business - 8th July
Dive into hands-on workshops, explore the campus, experience the facilities, and hear from current students about how they’re studying to become ethical lawyers, strategic business leaders, and change-makers in criminal justice. Discover ACU Melbourne - Law, Criminology and Business

ACU Guarantee Early Offer and Pathways Webinar - 23rd July

Learn about ACU’s entry and pathway options, including the ACU Guarantee early offer program, key dates and how to apply. Plus, hear from current students about their journeys.

This webinar is for Victorian Year 12 students and their parents.

Study at ACU webinar series

Year 12 VCE Revision Webinars - 24th-27th August

Worried about your Year 12 exams? You're not alone. Join ACU's free online webinars from 24 - 27 August 2026. They are live, expert-led sessions designed to help you walk into your exams feeling prepared. Can't attend live? Register anyway – recordings are available to registered attendees for one week after each webinar.

Year 12 VCE Revision Webinars 2026

James Cook University (JCU) | Heroes In Vet Science

Applications are now open for JCU’s Heroes in Veterinary Science program. This full-day experience gives students a behind-the-scenes look at careers in animal health and welfare. They will be able to tour JCU’s Veterinary and Emergency Centre and Hospital, meet academics and industry experts, and discover what it’s really like to work in Veterinary Science. Applications close 30th June.

JCU: James Cook University

Swinburne University

Innovation in Action for Year 10-12 Students - 1st July & 30th September

The Swinburne Innovation in Action school holiday program is a 1-day program based at the Hawthorn campus where Year 10 - 12 students are given the knowledge and tools they need to come up with brilliant new ideas to solve real-world problems. In this free program, you will:

Identify and analyse a real-world problem
Design possible solutions to your chosen problem
Create a rapid prototype for your solution
Pitch and evaluate your prototype with your peers

Swinburne is delivering two more Innovation in Action holiday programs in 2026.

Each program runs from 9.30am–3.30pm on:

Wednesday, 1 July 2026

Wednesday, 30 September 2026

Swinburne Innovation in Action | Swinburne

Youth Space Innovation Challenge for Year 9-12 Students - 2nd July

Moon Mission invites students to explore the Moon like never before, combining science, creativity and teamwork across a full day of exciting activities. From learning about past and future Moon missions, to designing your own lunar base, you’ll tackle challenges faced by real scientists and engineers. Work in teams to build innovative solutions under real-world constraints, meet researchers and experience cutting-edge space technology through interactive exhibits and tours. The day culminates in a high-energy survival challenge and a look ahead to the future of human exploration beyond Earth. Whether you’re curious about space, passionate about problem-solving, or considering a career in STEM, this is your opportunity to experience what it’s like to be part of the next generation shaping our journey to the Moon.

Space Innovation Challenge | Swinburne

Future Doctors Australia

The Future Doctors Australia Program provides a unique, hands-on opportunity for students aged 14-18 who are passionate about a future in medicine. Over the course of 4 days, participants will engage in dynamic sessions led by experienced medical specialists, take part in practical learning activities, and gain valuable insights into the medical admissions process. This program is designed to inspire and equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed on their path to a medical career. Don’t miss this chance to gain first-hand knowledge and mentorship from medical professionals who are shaping the future of healthcare.

FDA Program Brochure.pdf

2026 & 2027 dates:

Brisbane	9 - 12 July
Brisbane	19 - 22 September
Melbourne	24 - 27 September
Sydney	1 - 4 October
Brisbane	17 - 20 December
Melbourne	14 - 17 January 2027
Sydney	21-24 January 2027
Perth	21 - 24 January 2027
Melbourne	8 - 11 April 2027

NIE Careers | Future Doctors Australia

Federation University | Visual Arts Workshop - 3rd July

Designed for VCE students (and mature-age participants looking to return to study), this hands-on session covers some practical drawing and sculptural activities, with expert guidance to help you build skills and confidence. Try new techniques, develop your folio, and connect with others who share your art passion. Whether you're preparing for further study or just want to get creative, this is a great place to start.

Visual Arts Workshop Tickets, Friday 3 July • 10 AM - 3:30 PM | Eventbrite

National Fashion College | Styling Workshop for ages 16+ in Melbourne - 4th July

You’re officially invited to National Fashion College's exclusive Styling Workshop, taking place at their vibrant Melbourne campus - home to creativity, innovation, and the next generation of fashion talent.

In just one day, gain hands-on experience as you learn the foundations of professional styling from an industry-recognised expert. You’ll assist on not one, but two photo shoots with a renowned fashion photographer - offering you a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the fast-paced world of fashion. This is your first step towards a career in styling.

Karinda Mutabazi is a Melbourne-based stylist, creative consultant, and mentor known for her bold use of colour, expressive styling, and rich storytelling. Her work spans RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under, Melbourne Fashion Week, Australian Fashion Week, and editorial campaigns for Emporium Melbourne. With a background in musical theatre and a passion for inclusivity, sustainability, and emerging talent, Karinda brings a unique, people-first approach to fashion that connects deeply with culture and identity.

This experience is recommended for guests aged 16 and older.

STYLING WORKSHOP — National Fashion College

Speakers' Corner Australia | Melbourne Debating Holiday Camp for Year 5-8 - 7th-8th July

Join Speakers' Corner Australia these holidays for an intensive and engaging debating program led by some of Australia’s top university debaters and coaches. Across the camp, students will develop confidence, public speaking, critical thinking, teamwork, and persuasive communication skills through interactive workshops, practice debates, and personalised feedback. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to meet like-minded peers, challenge yourself, and experience the energy of competitive debating.

Holiday Programs | Speakers' Corner

Student Exchange Program | Online Information Session - 7th July

Join the live online information session to learn how a high school exchange program works, what daily life looks like for students overseas and how the team supports every step from preparation to return. The session covers destinations, program options, eligibility, safety and wellbeing, scholarships, discounts and the application process. Parents gain clarity and reassurance. Students gain inspiration and a real sense of what an exchange experience can offer.

High School Exchange Program | Live Information Session - Student Exchange

RMIT University | Tech and Trades Experience Day - 8th July

Get hands on with the tech and tools of the future at RMIT's Tech and Trades Experience Day in July.

Join RMIT for a hands on day where you'll explore what life at uni student could look like and discover which path is right for you.

Experience RMIT first-hand with practical tasters from our tech and trades courses. On the day, you'll enjoy:

In-person workshops led by RMIT teachers, using the same tools and facilities our students train with
Opportunities to chat with teachers and current students and ask questions about studying at RMIT
Catered lunch, with options to suit all dietary requirements
Fun prizes and giveaways along the way

Tech & Trades Experience Day - RMIT University

Zoos Victoria | Careers Expo - 9th-10th July

Are you passionate about wildlife and interested in a career with animals, conservation or the environment? Join experts for the 2026 Careers Expo at Melbourne Zoo.

This event is perfect for students in Years 9-12 who want to explore careers in zoology, wildlife conservation, environmental science, animal welfare, and more.

Hear from zoo experts and specialists as they share career insights and advice across a range of engaging sessions
Take part in interactive sessions that tackle real-world organisational challenges
Connect with leading scientific, conservation, and education organisations to explore courses and career pathways for young people

Zoos Victoria Careers Expo

University of New South Wales (UNSW) | Portfolio Entry Information Session, Online - 15th July

At UNSW, they know you're more than just a number. That's why they've created the UNSW Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme—a pathway to university that recognises your unique talents and ambitions.

Hear directly from UNSW academics and students about crafting a compelling portfolio for degrees within the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture and the Faculty of Engineering in 2026. They'll guide you through what to include, how to apply, and tips to help you succeed. Plus, you'll have the chance to ask questions and get clarity on anything you're unsure about.

Why choose this scheme?

Early Conditional Offers: Get an offer with a reduced ATAR requirement—up to 10 points below the standard selection rank for your chosen degree.
Showcase your talent: Stand out by highlighting your unique skills, potential, and passion.

UNSW Portfolio Entry Information Evening Tickets, Wednesday, July 15 • 6 PM - 7 PM AEST | Eventbrite

ADHD Webinars for Students & Parents

Hosted by Claire Pech, CICA-Accredited Careers Practitioner, and Amanda Krulis, endorsed Organisational Psychologist. View the full series of webinars for the ADHD community on all things careers, schooling and the workforce.

Procrastination & ADHD - Webinar for Year 10-12 Students & Parents - 16th July

This webinar is for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 with ADHD (and the parents trying to help). They'll cover why ADHD brains procrastinate, what actually helps, and the skills that often work even when nothing else does.

Procrastination & ADHD - Yr 10, 11, 12 (parents & students)

ATAR, Bonus Points, & Uni Entry Explained with ADHD - Webinar for Year 12 Students & Parents - 30th July

Join the webinar designed for Yr 12 students and parents, navigating university admissions with ADHD, which can impact these processes. They’ll cover:

The ATAR - explained
What the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) is and who qualifies
How to apply for EAS and what you will need
Other bonus points (adjustment factors) on offer
Important dates and deadlines
University preference strategies that work
Early entry options and their benefits

ATAR, Bonus Points, & Uni Entry Explained with ADHD

Melbourne Career Expo - 17th-19th July

The Melbourne Career Expo is the most comprehensive and exciting careers event in Australia. This expo encompasses all career opportunities from employment to education and training in the trades, corporate and professional sectors along with major Universities, TAFEs and Training providers.

Home | Melbourne Career Expo

Victoria Police | Careers Information Session, Victoria Police Centre - 22nd July

Victoria Police are inviting you to an exclusive Careers Information Session – a rare chance to get an inside look into the fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding world of policing. What to expect:

Unlock the secrets to the recruitment process
Discover the intensive, hands-on training at the Victoria Police Academy
Explore career pathways beyond general duties policing
Learn about specialist units tackling everything from major crime to community engagement
Hear firsthand stories from those who serve and protect every day

This is your exclusive invitation to gain behind-the-scenes access to the Victoria Police Centre – a location typically closed to the public. Don’t miss your chance to experience the energy and excitement of policing like never before!

Victoria Police Careers Information Session - Victoria Police Centre (VPC) Tickets, Wednesday, July 22 • 5:30 PM - 7 PM | Eventbrite

Australian Federal Police | Becoming a Protective Service Officer with the AFP - Online Information Session - 28th July

Gain insights into the role of a protective service officer (PSO), hear first-hand experiences, and discover what it means to do legendary work in the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

Online Information Session Registration Form - 28th July

The Push | Careers Expo, Melbourne - 28th July

The Music Careers Expo is for young people aged 15–25 who are curious about working in music — whether that’s performing, producing, working behind the scenes or exploring other roles across the industry. You’ll hear from people working across the industry (artists, managers, producers, engineers) and have the chance to sit down one-on-one with professionals and educators for advice on your next steps. If you love Australian music and want to work in it, this is where you start! Parents, teachers and friends are also welcome to attend.

The Push Music Careers Expo

2027 Sport & Business Programs

SEDA have now launched their Sport & Business Programs for 2027. In Victoria, these include offerings with the Collingwood Magpies, Melbourne United, Melbourne Victory and Netball Victoria.

Program	Links	Open Nights/Information Sessions
Collingwood Magpies	Event registration	Monday, 3rd August
Melbourne United	Event registration	Wednesday, 19th August (Hoop City) Monday, 24th August (MSAC)
Melbourne Victory	Event registration	Monday, 31st August
Netball Victoria	Event registration	Thursday, 3rd September

SEDA_Program Guide_digital_FA.pdf

2026-SBP-Netball Victoria-Digital.pdf

2026-SBP-Melbourne Victory-Flyer-Digital.pdf

2026-SBP-Melbourne United-Flyer-Digital.pdf

2026-Collingwood Magpies-Flyer-Digital.pdf

University of Melbourne | Applying to the University of Melbourne Through VTAC, Online Session for Future Students - 5th August

Planning on applying to the University of Melbourne, but a little unsure of the steps involved through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)? Join in to discover everything you need to know about VTAC and answer all your application questions. You’ll be guided through the process by the Future Students team and a VTAC representative, so you can apply for your preferred Melbourne undergraduate course in 2026 with confidence.

Applying through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)

Central Queensland University (CQU) | Education Open Day Webinar - 24th August

With courses available across early childhood, primary and secondary teaching, CQU's friendly education academics will explain what it’s really like to study at CQU. You’ll learn about their strong local networks, the support services that help you succeed, and how CQU prepares you for a rewarding career in the classroom.

Education Open Day Webinar - CQUniversity

School of Audio Engineering (SAE) | Create for a Day - 3rd October

This October school holidays, SAE University College Melbourne is opening its doors for Create for a Day: a one-day, hands-on experience where you’ll step into the studio, lab or production space and start creating. Choose from:

Animation
Audio
Computer Science
Film
Games
Songwriting & Electronic Music Production
VFX

Create for a Day lets you skip the textbooks and jump straight into building, recording, designing, coding or filming, all guided by lecturers who work in the industry. By the end of the day, you’ll walk away with your own finished project and a certificate of participation, plus a clearer idea of what studying at SAE is really like and where your skills could take you in the future. Open to students in Years 10-12 and young creatives up to age 21.

SAE’s Create for a Day – SAE University College

Open Days

James Cook University (JCU)

Cairns | 24th July

Swinburne University of Technology - 26th July

Open Day is your chance to see what’s possible at Swinburne and find where you fit in.

Experience Swinburne up-close through hundreds of activations across campus
Get the scoop on brand new courses that combine your passion with a purpose
Explore projects from their Work Integrated Learning students and learn about their industry experience guarantee
Catch talks from Swinburne researchers that will expand your knowledge – and horizons

Open Day

Monash

Peninsula - 1st August

Caulfield - 1st August

Clayton - 2nd August

If you’re considering studying at uni, going to the Monash Open Day is one of the best decisions you can make. You’ll be able to discover key course information, explore campuses, meet current students and staff, and get a taste of Monash life, firsthand. Whether you want to get a feel for what you’ll be studying, make sure you're on the right track, or simply picture yourself in one of the learning spaces, here’s why you should join Monash at Open Day:

Chat with current students
Hear from inspiring academics
Get all your questions answered in the one place
Get involved
Enjoy the vibe

Home - Open Day

University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSc)

2nd August

Join UniSc on campus for the biggest event of the year and explore your future. Open Day is more than talking and listening – it’s a chance to get involved!

Learn about entry pathways, how to apply and support services in the 'Getting into uni' info session. Then, head to the study area sessions to explore the degrees you’re interested in.

Open Day | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

Deakin University

Deakin are opening up their campuses again in August 2026! Experience first-hand why Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for course satisfaction and graduate employment. Go to Open Day to find out how studying at Deakin lets you gain practical experience, make industry connections and build career confidence – everything you need to land the job you want.

Warrnambool, Sunday 2 August, 9am–12.30pm

Geelong Waterfront, Sunday 16 August, 9am–3pm

Geelong Waurn Ponds, Sunday 16 August, 9am–3pm

Melbourne Burwood, Sunday 23 August, 9am–3pm

Open Day at Deakin

RMIT University

Bundoora - Sunday 2 August

Brunswick - Sunday 9 August

City - Sunday 9 August

Point Cook - Sunday 16 August

Bendigo - Sunday 23 August

RMIT Open Day is your chance to experience what it's like to be an RMIT student. Get to know your surroundings, explore the campus, meet your future teachers, ask questions and make friends. It's your opportunity to learn all the tips and tricks from current students and alumni.

RMIT Open Day - RMIT University

La Trobe University

Melbourne (Bundoora) | Sunday 2 August

Shepparton | Sunday 9 August

Mildura | Wednesday 12 August

Albury-Wodonga | Sunday 16 August

Bendigo | Sunday 23 August

Why attend Open Day at La Trobe?

Chat with current students, alumni and teachers to get first-hand advice about your dream course, or just about the best places to eat on campus.
Explore the campus by yourself or join a guided tour. See the world-class health facilities, leading IT and science labs, business trading room, accommodation and much more.
Discover your options for placements, internships and work-based learning, and get all your questions answered about your dream course.
Get a taste of what it's really like to be at uni. Join events and activities or kick back and enjoy the campus – Open Day is the place to see it all.

University Open Days Melbourne 2026 | La Trobe University

Charles Sturt University (CSU)

Port Macquarie - 2nd August

Wagga Wagga - 9th August

Albury-Wodonga - 16th August

Bathurst - 23rd August

Orange - 30th August

Discover what uni life is like! Whether you’re in high school, looking to upskill, want to change careers, or are a parent, teacher or carer – there’s something for everyone.

Jump on a campus tour – explore our facilities and accommodation.
Get detailed info about courses.
Chat to current students about Charles Sturt life.
Be inspired by our expert teaching staff.
Discover the social side of life at Charles Sturt.
Enjoy live entertainment, giveaways, competitions and free food!

Plus, you can explore our expo, info, and career and skills hubs. Chat to our friendly teams about our support services, early offer programs and how to boost your hiring potential.

Open Day 2026 - Study

Federation University

Gippsland - 9th August

Berwick - 16th August

Ballarat - 23rd August

Experience Open Day at Federation University. From campus tours to live music and hands-on experiences, there’s something for everyone.

Why go to Open Day?

Tour the campus with current students
Meet academics, students and industry partners
Enjoy food stalls, live music, games and giveaways
Attend info sessions with expert course advice

Open Day | Federation University | Federation University

Australian Catholic University

Melbourne - Sunday 9th August

Ballarat - 23rd August

Open Day gives you the opportunity to ask teaching staff any questions you might have about your dream course, the application process, pathway options, entry schemes and more.

Chat to current students and discover the facilities your new campus has to offer. And sit in on information sessions from each of the faculties to find out more about the courses you’re interested in.

Open Day – Student life at ACU

Chisholm Institute | Info Day for Future Students

Frankston - 12th August

Dandenong - 9th September

Whether you want to start a new career, upskill in your current one or are still exploring your options, Info Day is your chance to experience Chisholm up close. Chat with teachers, tour the campuses, and find out how they can support your study journey – for the better.

Info days | Chisholm TAFE

Bendigo TAFE | Open Night

Bendigo City Campus - 13th August

Charleston Road Campus - 13th August

Bendigo TAFE is hosting an Open Night at their Bendigo City and Charleston Road campuses, giving you the chance to explore their courses, meet passionate teachers and tour the state-of-the-art facilities. Whether you're considering a career in health, automotive, animal studies, trades or beauty – you're welcome to attend as many sessions as you like.

Open Night

Australian College of Applied Professions (ACAP) - 15th August

Ready to turn your passion into a purpose-driven career? ACAP Open Day is your opportunity to discover how their practical, people-focused courses can help you make a real difference – in your community and your life. Join in on campus this August and experience what makes ACAP different. Whether you’re considering counselling, psychology, social work, criminology, law or business, you’ll get a firsthand look at the learning, support, and outcomes that set students up for success. From expert-led masterclasses and career panels to course advice and campus tours, Open Day is designed to give you the insight and inspiration to take the next step.

Open Day Melbourne - ACAP

School of Audio Engineering (SAE) - 15th August

Whether you're still exploring your study options or you’re ready to apply, SAE Open Day is the perfect place to get inspired, get informed, and get hands-on with your creative future. Join in on campus this August to tour their studios, meet your future mentors, and experience what it’s like to study at SAE – the University College built for creators and tech innovators. Explore your study and career pathways across animation, audio, design, film, games, music, VFX and more. Connect with current students, industry-experienced lecturers, and alumni who’ve turned their ideas into careers.

Open Day at SAE Melbourne - SAE University College - Register now

ADFA - 15th August

ADFA Open Day is run each year in August. Join online or in person to:

Explore world-class UNSW degrees, with information sessions about Business, Arts, Science, Engineering, Computing and Cyber Security.
Learn about military training, studying and life on campus from current ADFA Trainee Officers.
Watch a variety of exciting displays, take a virtual tour, and much more

Australian Defence Force Academy - ADF Careers

The University of Melbourne - 16 August

From robots and renewables to Renaissance art, Open Day is a chance to experience what it's really like to study, live and thrive at Melbourne. They look forward to welcoming you and your family to their campuses. What's on at Open Day:

Chat to academics, Future Student teams and current students to learn more about your study options and the exciting careers they could lead to
Get a feel for campus life by exploring the spaces you'll be learning in, including our labs, libraries, galleries and other specialist facilities
Learn how the curriculum works, including how you can combine your passions and strengths to set yourself apart for whichever career you choose
Explore the range of student accommodation facilities and the social activities and study support on offer

Open Day at the University of Melbourne

Victoria University

Footscray Park - Sunday 16 August

VU City Tower - Sunday 30 August

Open Day is your chance to explore everything unis like VU have to offer – in person. You can tour the campuses, explore the state-of-the-art facilities, chat with students and teachers, get course advice, attend hands-on workshops and demos, and experience what student life could look like for you! It’s a really valuable experience to getting the inside scoop on campus and life at uni or TAFE in general before you even finish school. It also gives you a great opportunity to apply on the spot for the Early Entry program, or even apply for a course right there and then!

Victoria University | VU Open Day - August 2026

Collarts, Melbourne - 29th August

At Collarts, their Open Day is all about making this process simple and hands-on. Information sessions, workshops and the chance to chat with students, teachers and leaders are an important part of learning more about what sets them apart from the rest. They invite you to go and experience life at Collarts: from their passion for creativity, close community, industry-level facilities, expert faculty, and more. From guided tours to live demonstrations, here are some of the activities you can catch at the next Collarts Open Day:

Guided tours: Experience the campuses firsthand with guided tours led by enthusiastic Student Ambassadors.
Info hubs: info hubs provide convenient drop-in spaces where you can have direct conversations with Program Leaders, Academics, and students about your desired course.
Demonstrations: Demonstrations are your chance to see the course content come to life. They allow you to be actively involved in projects and see cutting-edge equipment in action, so you can get a firsthand preview of what studying at Collarts is really like.
Displays: campus displays are positioned throughout different areas of the campuses, offering a showcase of the community’s achievements and journeys.

If you have specific accessibility needs or require additional assistance, please contact Collarts in advance, and they will do their best to assist you.

Collarts Open Day | Explore Creative Arts Courses in Melbourne and Sydney

Work Experience

Work Experience (WE)/Structured Workplace learning (SWL)/School Based Apprenticeships/Traineeships (SBAT)

Work experience is available to students that are 15+ years old.

SWL is available to students doing a VET Course in their VCE/VM Pathway.

SBAT’s are available to Year 10-12 students through our Headstart Program by application and availability only.

Work-Experience-Guide-2026-School-Licensed-Edition.pdf

Work Experience Opportunities

Please ensure you have considered the travel time and distance to and from your home as well as accommodation BEFORE you apply for any work experience placements. Please let careers know if you will be applying for any opportunities listed.

Bell Shakespeare (year 10 & 11 students)

Students in Year 10 and 11 are invited to apply for one week of Work Experience at Bell Shakespeare HQ in Sydney. Our Work Experience program is designed to give students insight into the entire process of making and producing theatre, not only what’s on stage.

Twelve students from across Australia will be selected to join the Company and go behind the scenes to discover how a working theatre company operates. Meet our team and learn about everything from production to casting, design, rehearsals, marketing, box office, fundraising, education and administration.

The 2026 program will focus on our national touring production of Macbeth directed by Artistic Director Peter Evans. Students will see live theatre, explore backstage, undertake group projects, listen to panel discussions, interview staff and participate in practical workshops.

Entry is by application. Students with interest in a range of aspects of theatre making are strongly encouraged to apply.

Students in regional/interstate schools are encouraged to apply, however Bell Shakespeare is unable to cover travel and accommodation costs.

Applications now open and will close 30th June.

Work experience | Bell Shakespeare

Defence Work Experience Programs (ages 15+)

The ADF are pleased to invite high school students aged 15–18 years to participate in Defence’s Work Experience Programs being delivered across Victoria in 2026. These youth‑focused programs introduce students to the wide range of career pathways available within the Australian Defence Force (ADF), including the Navy, Army and Air Force, as well as the Australian Public Service (APS).

All program information and links to apply online are available through their website Defence Careers - Jobs List - Defence Work Experience

Successful applicants will be notified via email. Students should read the details carefully so they understand what each program offers. They have more exciting programs planned for this year and will continually update their website as dates are confirmed. So, keep an eye on the website!

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) - Work Experience 2027 (ages 15+)

The National Gallery of Victoria offers work experience placements for secondary school students. Placements are based with the NGV Learn Team and where possible with other Departments.

Applications for 2027 Work Experience placements are now open and will close 5pm, 23 October 2026. All applicants will be notified by mid-November.

The NGV offers work experience during the following week in 2027: Monday 21 – Friday 25 June 2027.

Work Experience | NGV

Zoos Victoria - Work Experience 2027 (ages 15+)

Zoos Victoria's Secondary School Work Experience is for students interested in animal care, wildlife and conservation.

Places are available at Kyabram Fauna Park, Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo. Students leave with a clearer understanding of what working in a zoo really involves and whether it’s something they want to pursue in the future.

A five-day, full-time Work Experience program (in all weather) is curated for the student, giving them an opportunity to meet a range of people and participate in a range of tasks across the zoo. Some physical activities may be involved, with assessments and adjustments made to ensure the student can participate safely.

School Careers Coordinators can only endorse one student per school. Please note - Kyabram Fauna Park is the only property that accepts multiple students per school (per term). More information on the application process will be posted closer to the time.

Application timelines

Applications open on Monday 3 August 2026
Applications close on Friday 11 September 2026 - As each school can only submit one application for this program, applications must be submitted to Careers by Friday 4th September, to give us time to go through the applications.
Work experience placements commence from Term 1-4 2027

Secondary school work experience at the zoo

Grandshake Virtual Work Experience (ages 14-19)

Grandshake offers a ton of awesome Virtual Work Experience programs for young people across Australia aged 14-19. These programs are a great way to get a taste of your dream career, all from your own home. And they help you learn some valuable skills along the way as well. The programs run all year, during school and the holidays, so you can sign up to start at any time. The programs typically run for four weeks, with a 2-4 hour commitment per week. Best of all, they’re totally free.

Grandshake: Connecting Students and Employers for Real-World Experiences