Careers & Pathways
Senior School Years 9-12
What a busy start to the year it has been! Term 1 has seen a lot happening behind the scenes in the Careers and Pathways space, with important planning and conversations taking place to support students at every year level.
A major focus this term has been the commencement of Year 12 Pathway Conversations, where students have been meeting individually to discuss their post-school options, including university, TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships, and employment.
These conversations are a vital part of helping students feel confident, informed, and supported as they plan their next steps beyond school. Alongside this, we have been working closely with students across year levels on career planning, subject pathways, and future goal setting.
Looking Ahead to Term 2 – Exploring the World of Work
Term 2 is where it all really comes together, as students begin to actively explore the world of work through a range of practical, hands-on experiences.
One exciting opportunity coming up is the Trade and Tech Expo. Students who have expressed interest in attending this event will now see it available on Compass for consent. This expo provides students with the chance to engage directly with industry professionals, training providers, and employers, and to learn more about careers in trades, technology, apprenticeships, and vocational pathways.
Year 9 Mock Interviews
Preparation is well underway for the upcoming Year 9 Mock Interviews, an experience designed to build students’ confidence while developing their professional communication skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Through classroom preparation, students learn how to present themselves professionally, answer interview questions with confidence, talk clearly about their strengths and interests, and gain a better understanding of what employers expect.
The mock interviews provide a valuable, real-world learning opportunity and help students feel more prepared for future job interviews, work experience placements, and part-time employment.
Year 10 Work Experience
An Exciting Step Into the World of Work
Year 10 students are currently preparing for their Work Experience placement from Monday 25th – Friday 29th May. This is an exciting opportunity for students to step out of the classroom and experience what working full-time is really like. For many students, this will be their first taste of the world of work and a chance to explore a career they may be interested in for the future.
Students are encouraged to look for a placement that connects to their interests, strengths, or future goals. Finding a placement can take time, so students and families are encouraged to think creatively and explore a range of workplaces. This experience is about discovering new possibilities and learning more about themselves in a real-world setting.
What Is Work Experience?
Work Experience is a short-term placement with an employer that allows students to explore a workplace and industry in a hands-on way. Students will mainly observe, learn, ask questions, and complete suitable tasks, helping them understand how workplaces operate day to day.
This is a valuable learning experience rather than a job. Students will not be asked to complete tasks that require extensive training or specialist skills, and they should not complete work experience at their regular part-time job. Students are responsible for finding their own placement, with support available from the Careers and Pathways team throughout the process.
Why Work Experience Is an Important Learning Experience
Work Experience plays a key role in helping students prepare for their future. Through this experience, students can:
gain a real understanding of workplace expectations and responsibilities
explore possible career pathways and industries
build confidence, independence, and maturity
develop important employability skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management
see how school learning connects to real-world work
gather experiences they can use in resumes, applications, and interviews
make more informed choices about future VCE or VET studies
For many students, Work Experience can be a turning point, helping them discover new interests, confirm career goals, or realise what they may (or may not) want to pursue in the future.
Work Experience Arrangements
Each placement requires a Work Experience Arrangement Form, which is a legal document. It must be signed by the student, parent/carer, employer, and the school (with principal approval).
Students are covered by WorkCover and Public Liability insurance through the Department of Education.
Important Due Date
All Work Experience paperwork must be submitted to the Pathways Hub by Monday 27 April - the start of Week 2, Term 2.
Required Forms
The following forms must be submitted:
- Work Experience Arrangement Form
- Safe@Work Certificate - safe@work General module
- Safe@Work Certificates - safe@work Industry modules
- Self-assessment tests - safe@work Self-assessment tests
- Certificates uploaded to Compass Learning Task
- Travel & Accommodation Arrangements Form (if applicable)
Working with Animals Form (if applicable)
Extra copies of forms are available from the Pathways Hub and Senior Centre, or by contacting Mrs Notman or Mr Knowles.
Work Experience is more than just a week away from school, it is a chance for students to learn, grow, build confidence, and explore their future. We strongly encourage students to approach this opportunity with curiosity, enthusiasm, and an open mind.
As always, the Careers and Pathways team is committed to supporting students as they explore their options and plan for the future. We look forward to another busy and exciting term ahead, filled with meaningful learning experiences that help students connect school learning with life beyond the classroom.
If students or families have any questions or would like further support, please feel free to get in touch.
Items in the Career News for the 27th March include:
Dates to Diarise in Term 2
How to become an Actuary
Federation University: Science: Turn your Passion into a Rewarding Career
Studying Law at the Swinburne University
Studying Forensic Science at Deakin University
What is a Sports Physiotherapist?
Bond University: Go behind the scenes at the World Surf League Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach
Games Design Courses in Victoria in 2026
Snapshot of RMIT University in 2026
Items in the Career News for the 2nd April include:
Dates to Diarise in Term 2
VCE and Careers Expo 2026
Monash University: What is Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences?
La Trobe University Aspire Program for 2027 Entry
PGA Institute
Career in Air Conditioning Technology
Monash University: Make Music With Us Program
Human Resources Courses in Victoria in 2026
Snapshot of Australian Catholic University in 2026
Tanya Notman
tno@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au
Tim Knowles
kno@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au
Careers Practitioners