Transitional Pathways, Careers & VET - News for Term 3 Newsletter

Career opportunities and information continues to be available for McCarthy students.

Early Entry Application - Key Dates

UoN - Applications Close 4 September 2025
CSU - Applications Close 31 July 2025
SCU - Applications Close 30 September 2025

UAC Key Dates

Regional Residential Program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW)

As part of the UNSW Gateway Admission Pathway Scheme two of our Year 12 students, Penny Hutchinson and Jade Krsulija were invited to attend UNSW’s four-day residential program where they had the opportunity to explore UNSW’s bustling Kensington campus in the heart of Sydney, meet with faculty representatives and current students who moved from regional areas to study a range of degrees at UNSW and participate in two days of on-campus programming.

“The whole program was really beneficial. We got to experience what it would be like to be a university student as well as what it would be like living in Sydney. Every activity was worth the time, as it gave you experience; something that you can't get from just looking online.” Penny Hutchinson

“After attending the UNSW Regional Gateway Program I feel so much better about my university life ahead of me. Throughout the week I took part in a variety of university activities and Sydney activities, for a look into the Sydney living life I may end up in. During the Gateway Program Open Day I took part in faculty experiences such as the ADA: building the metaverse, where we constructed a futuristic city based around arts, design and architecture. Alongside this it also took place in medicine and health: rhythm of life, where we looked at real human bodies and hearts, to understand how the heart functions in our body, we also were able to learn how to measure the blood pressure in our bodies! These two sessions allowed me to be able to experience courses I may want to be a part of at UNSW. On day two I was able to attend the accommodation tour. This tour was probably one of the most important parts of my time at UNSW as I was able to examine apartments that I'll have to stay in. Furthermore, we took part in an arrangement of fun activities such as caps scavenger hunts, university clubs, the play that goes wrong at the Opera House and a movie night on campus! Being a part of this experience was amazing and I feel that it has locked in where I want to attend university in the future and the future life ahead of me.” Jade Krsulija

Northwest Regional Careers Expo

Our Year 10 students had the opportunity to attend the Northwest Regional Careers Expo at the Tamworth TRECC, joining around 2,200 students from across the New England Northwest. The expo provided the students with an invaluable opportunity to explore a wide range of career options by engaging directly with exhibitors from various industries, including universities and training providers from across Australia. Many students took advantage of the chance to ask questions and gather information to help guide their future study and career pathways. This event continues to be a key highlight for students in the region, offering insights and inspiration as they plan their pathways beyond Year 10.

Unserious Careers Presentation

Students across Year 10 to 12 had the exciting opportunity to attend the Unserious Careers Presentation by Alana Kilmartin, author of the popular book Unserious Careers. Alana shared her own unique career journey and offered inspiring advice on how to approach career planning with a fresh and enjoyable perspective. She encouraged students to explore different pathways, take risks, and seek enjoyment. The presentation was engaging and motivational, helping students think differently about their futures and how to navigate the transition from school to work with confidence and creativity.

White Card Training

Various students from Year 9, 10, and 11 had the chance to participate in White Card Training, which is essential for anyone planning to work in the construction industry. The training, delivered by a Registered Training Organisation, equipped students with the knowledge to work safely on construction sites, covering important topics such as identifying hazards and understanding safety laws. Upon successful completion, students received a White Card, officially recognized across Australia, allowing them to enter and work on construction sites legally and safely. This practical qualification is a valuable step for students interested in pursuing careers in construction or related trades.

Year 10 Allied Health Work Experience Program

Four Year 10 students had the opportunity to participate in the Year 10 Allied Health Work Experience Program held at the Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital. This program was held over three days which allowed the students to gain firsthand insight into the various allied health professions, such as Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology and Physiotherapy, enhancing their understanding of these careers and providing valuable practical experience.

Career Spotlight

Wondering what’s possible? Check out this week’s Career Spotlight

How to become a Speech Pathologist

If you enjoy working with people of all ages and are fascinated by the power of communication, Speech pathology could be your perfect calling. You might like to find out how to get there in this Career Spotlight.

A Reminder for Students to Check their School Emails

Students are reminded to check their emails daily. The transition team will submit numerous Expression of Interests (EOI) for training, professional learning and/or fantastic events.

Careers Classrooms and Codes

Students are encouraged to join the Google Classrooms which relate directly to their interests and needs. The classrooms and codes are:

Universities and UAC Code: 2yz6h6s	Part time jobs Code: o76i4pv
Apprenticeships, Traineeships & Work Experience Code: d6i57bo	Full time jobs Code: xehfpmy

Careers@McCarthy website

The information for students and parents/carers can be found on the careers website which can be accessed through this link.

McCarthy Careers Team 2025 Contacts

- Amanda Burke Careers VET/TVET & SBAT Support Officer

Email: aburke1@arm.catholic.edu.au

- Shane Vesey-Wells, Leader of Learning: Transition and Pathways

Email: sveseywells@arm.catholic.edu.au

Daily Bread-Breakfast Club