Careers

Year 12 – What’s Next?

With classes finished up, exams well under way Year 12 students are now preparing for results and future pathways. 

Below are some important dates for our year 12 students looking to enter further education.

Reminder: VTAC 2026 Upcoming Key Dates  

Careers are still open to all year 12 students that need support in any areas of their pathways, including course guidance, apprenticeships or support in securing work. Please reach out to Mrs Tanya Molloy to arrange a time to call in. 

SBAT / School based apprenticeships and traineeships

What is an SBAT?

A School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT) allows students to:

• Work part-time with an employer,
• Complete formal vocational training (e.g. Certificate II/III),
• Continue studying at school toward their VCE.

Benefits of an SBAT

• Gain hands-on, real-world experience
• Earn nationally recognised qualifications
• Build pathways into apprenticeships, traineeships, or employment
• Learn workplace skills and boost employability
• Earn money while completing their schooling
• Help clarify future career interests

We currently have a strong number of students interested in School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) for 2026. 

These students have completed interviews with the HeadStart Team, and several have already participated in workplace trials. Many are now in the process of securing positions with HeadStart support.

Some of the areas students are commencing SBATs in include, Plumbing, Electrical, Automotive and Carpentry.

In addition to our new students commencing SBAT pathways in 2026, we would also like to acknowledge two of our current Year 12 students who began their SBATs last year and have now successfully transitioned into full-time apprenticeships alongside completing their VCE-VM. 

Well done Sean Bernard and Lachlan Day!

Both students completed their training in the Automotive industry while balancing their school commitments, demonstrating outstanding dedication, independence, and work ethic. 

Their employers have been extremely impressed with their skills, professionalism, and willingness to learn, which has led to ongoing employment opportunities.

We congratulate these students on this significant achievement and wish them every success as they continue to grow in their apprenticeships and pursue rewarding careers in the Automotive field. 

Their success is a wonderful example of the opportunities an SBAT can provide, turning passion and practical learning into a meaningful career pathway.

Career News

Click on the link below to download the November Issue of Career News.

Dates to Diarise in Term 4

As we move toward the end of the school year, students and families should take note of the following important dates. 

These include VTAC deadlines, university pathway programs, and learning opportunities to help plan for 2026 and beyond.

Keep an eye on school notices, provider websites, and Compass for updates.

Summer School with Access Education

Access Education will again be running Summer School for senior students preparing for VCE in 2026. These intensive workshops are taught by experienced VCE teachers and offer:

• Revision and head start subject sessions
• Study and exam skill development

• Confidence-building before Term 1 begins

   

Foundation Studies at ACU

The ACU Foundation Studies Program offers an alternative entry pathway to university for students who do not receive the ATAR required for their preferred course. This is a reliable pathway for students wanting to progress toward university-level study.

Federation University – Changes to Courses from 2026

Federation University has announced several course updates for 2026. These include:

Students considering study at Federation University are encouraged to review updates carefully and contact Careers for advice.

Psychiatrists and Psychologists – What’s the Difference?

Students interested in mental health careers often ask about the difference between these two roles. Both play key roles in the mental health system, and each pathway offers rewarding career opportunities. 

 Guaranteed Pathways – Bachelor of Design (University of Melbourne)

The University of Melbourne has expanded its guaranteed pathways into the Bachelor of Design. 

Students who complete approved pathway programs with a specified minimum GPA can secure entry into the degree without relying on ATAR alone.

Employment Projections

National employment projections show strong growth over the next five years in industries including:

• Health & Community Services
• Education
• Construction
• Professional Services

• Technology & Digital Skills

   

Games Design Courses in Victoria – 2025

For students interested in the fast-growing creative technology sector, Victoria offers several quality pathways in Game Design and Development.

Institutions with relevant 2025 course offerings include:

• RMIT University
• Swinburne University
• Deakin University

• Melbourne Polytechnic

   

Snapshot – Melbourne Polytechnic (2025)

Melbourne Polytechnic continues to offer a diverse range of hands-on courses, blending TAFE vocational training with higher education pathways.

Popular study areas include:

• Music
• Trades
• Hospitality
• Animal Studies
• Screen & Media

Mrs Tanya Molloy

Career and Pathway Coordinator