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

OHS Programs                                                                            Work Experience Program

Structured Workplace Learning                                            Vocational Education and Training

School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships           Morrisby Assessment Program

Guest Speakers                                                                          Incursions

Excursions                                                                                   Newsletters

Career Lessons                                                                          Resume Writing

Job Applications                                                                         VTAC Support

 

 

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

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

Bairnsdale Secondary College Events

 

Public Events

The following events are not Bairnsdale Secondary College events. 

 

Students considering career in Medicine / Dentistry: UCAT 2025 Important Dates

 

UCAT ANZ 2025 Registration will open on the 4th of March 2025

Students considering a career in medicine or dentistry, during Year 12 will need to sit a compulsory entry exam known as the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) before they can apply for relevant placements in the aforementioned fields of study within most universities in Australia.

The first time a candidate is eligible to sit the UCAT is during their final year of school, that is, Year 12 (in Australia) or Year 13 (in New Zealand). Candidates can repeat the UCAT yearly. The UCAT is held once a year.

 

UCAT ANZ 2025 Key Dates 

Candidates taking the UCAT ANZ in 2025 for entry to universities in Australia and New Zealand in 2026 should note these key dates. Deadline times are 11.59pm AEST – Australian Eastern Standard Time.

UCAT registration is available only via the UCAT ANZ website – ucat.edu.au

Concession Scheme opened3 Feb 2025
Access Arrangements open3 Feb 2025
UCAT ANZ BOOKING OPENS via ucat.edu.au4 March 2025
Concession application deadline9 May 2025
Access Arrangements application deadline16 May 2025
UCAT BOOKING DEADLINE16 May 2025
Late UCAT booking deadline30 May 2025
Late Access Arrangements application deadline30 May 2025
FINAL late booking deadline6 June 2025
Cancellation deadline11 June 2025
Testing begins1 July 2025
Last testing date5 August 2025
Results delivered to universitiesEarly September 2025

Who is eligible to sit the UCAT?

The UCAT ANZ test is only available to a candidate whose educational level at the time of sitting the test is that they are undertaking or have completed the final year of secondary schooling, or higher. For example, candidates registering for UCAT ANZ 2025 should have completed, or plan to complete their final year of secondary schooling in 2025, that is, Year 12 in Australia or Year 13 in New Zealand.

 

Candidates are eligible to sit UCAT ANZ if they have commenced or completed an undergraduate degree.It is noted, however, that not all undergraduate degree programs for which UCAT ANZ is a prerequisite will offer places for non-school leavers. Candidates are advised to check the UCAT ANZ Consortium university websites for further information.

 

Only a limited number of UCAT ANZ Consortium universities require international students to sit UCAT ANZ and, if so, it will only be required in specific circumstances. Candidates are advised to check the UCAT ANZ Consortium university websites for further information.

Reference: Pearson VUE, 2025

 

What’s on at NIE?

6 May 2025

For Parents, Students and Teachers

Free Webinar: UCAT & Pathways into Medicine / Dentistry Information Session

REGISTER

 

Future Doctors Australia – 4 days Career in Medicine Program (spots are strictly limited)

Complete UCAT Courses – various levels of preparation and options available to meet individual student needs.

UCAT Preparation Workshop – 4 UCAT sections covered + full mock exam + introduction to medical interviews.

Medical Interviews Workshop – lift your performance above the competition, validating your sincerity and burning positive lasting impressions into the minds of the selection panel.

Universities and the UCAT Requirements

 

RMIT – Are you a senior year student interested in art and design?

RMIT University is pleased to invite Year 11 and 12 students to participate in their Ready Set Design Program for 2025, including the opportunity to explore different design fields and participate in exciting design workshops in preparation for tertiary level study.

 

Ready Set Design 2025 is a series of three workshops held during the April, July and September 2025 school holidays. It focuses on design, developing students’ folio’s and preparing for selection tasks as part of the VTAC Application for TAFE and University design courses.

Workshop 1: Design Bytes – Mon 7 April – Registrations open now!

This workshop provides students with an opportunity to hear from a panel of successful design professionals, who will offer insights into industry connections and design programs available to study. Students will also get a free pizza lunch!

 

Workshop 2: Folio Bytes – Mon 7 July – Registrations open May

Folio Bytes invites students to participate in a hands-on workshop run by RMIT design teachers or industry professionals by choosing a specific design field, such as Architecture, Graphic Design, Fashion and more, to further develop their folio.

 

Workshop 3: Interview Bytes – Mon 22 September – Registrations open August

Students are able to learn more about entering a design course, the application process, program interviews and folio presentation by hearing from RMIT design teachers, selection officers and current students.

Follow the link for further information and to register Ready Set Design – Design Bytes

 

Monash Information Evening – Traralgon – 20th May

DATE: Tuesday, 20 May 2025

TIME: 6.30 – 8.00pm AEST

LOCATION: Monash Rural Health (Latrobe Regional Hospital), 40 Village Ave, Traralgon VIC 3844

We know that choosing a university is a big decision. Monash Information Evenings are the perfect opportunity to have your questions answered on everything you wanted to know about undergraduate study at Monash.

You’ll hear about:

  • our ten diverse study and discipline areas
  • undergraduate course types, such as our comprehensive and specialist courses, double degrees and pathway programs
  • international opportunities, including study abroad and overseas tours
  • how to apply – everything you need to know about VTAC, key dates and deadlines
  • scholarships and fees
  • SEAS and the Monash Guarantee
  • accommodation options, both on and off-campus.

Follow the link for further information Monash Information Evening – Traralgon – Discover Monash

 

Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) Open Day – 24th May

 

Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Open Day. It is a great opportunity to meet their teachers, staff and students. The day will cover everything you need to know about the:

  • careers in games and VFX that they train students for
  • studios and industries that they work with
  • courses they offer – from beginners to professional mastery
  • the software, skills and knowledge they teach

AIE’s Open Day will also include presentations on entry requirements and how to apply. Find out how AIE can get you into a creative career.

 

Open Day | Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE)

 

AIE - Online Campus Day - 7 June 2025

 

Organisation: Academy of Interactive Entertainment

Location: Online

Date: June 7, 2025

 

Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Online Campus Day. AIE will be running this event for students interested in studying online. You will be able to meet our teachers, explore how classes will run, course options, career pathways and see our amazing student work.

We will be covering everything you need to know about the:

  • careers in games and VFX that we train students for;
  • studios and industries that we work with;
  • courses we offer - from beginners to professional mastery, and;
  • the software, skills and knowledge we teach.

Find out more and register

 

Open Day 2025, Melbourne - 28th June

Organisation: Australian Institute of Music

Location: AIM Melbourne Campus

Date: June 28, 2025

Join us for Open Day, and experience everything AIM has to offer!

See our campus, get course advice, experience live performances, meet our academics and students, and get involved in activities that will give you a taste of student life here at AIM.

Whether you’re ready to study now, or in five years, Open Day is open to all and a fantastic opportunity to discover how the Australian Institute of Music can help turn your passion for music into a career.

Find out more and register

 

Tech and Trades Experience Day 2025 - 10 July 2025

 

Organisation: RMIT University

Location: RMIT Melbourne City Campus

Date: July 10, 2025

 

Explore next-level workshops at RMIT's Tech and Trades Experience Day in the July school holidays. Walk in the shoes of a student for a day and experience what it's like to learn an IT, tech or trade course.

If you're a high school student in Year 10, 11 or 12, as well as parents/guardians, this event is for you. Not only is it free, it's also a great chance to get a glimpse of what tech and trade courses are really like at RMIT.

The workshops at the Experience Day will have tech something for everyone, no matter what IT tech course or trade course you're interested in. With everything from cyber security to carpentry, the event gives you a chance to explore your interests and passions.

 

Find out more and register

 

ACAP University College Open Day 2025, Melbourne - 16 August 2025

 

Organisation: ACAP University College

Location: ACAP Melbourne Campus

Date: August 16, 2025

 

Open Day is your chance to experience the ACAP difference and find your path in the applied professions. Whether you’re interested in Counselling, Psychology, Social Work, Criminology, Law, or Business, ACAP is your pathway to making a difference.

Be part of a workshop, meet our industry-renowned facilitators, and hear all about life as an ACAP student. Join us for a day of exploration and inspiration!

 

Find out more and register

 

SAE University College Open Day 2025, Melbourne - 16 August 2025

 

Organisation: SAE University College

Location: SAE Melbourne Campus

Date: August 16, 2025

 

We’re opening the doors to the campus for our biggest event of the year – Open Day!

Come and tour our facilities, speak to faculty members, meet current students, and find out everything you need to know about studying at SAE.

If you’re considering studying creative media, come along to SAE’s Open Day to speak to our experienced team and learn how you can pursue your passion in this dynamic and expanding industry.

 

Find out more and register

Work Experience

 

Undertaking a Work Experience Placement is a fantastic way to explore different careers and industries.  Placements can open up part time employment opportunities and support you to build self-confidence.  You can learn what sort of work environment suits you and what employers expect from you.    

 

To find out about Bairnsdale Secondary College's Work Experience Program follow the link to the video.

Work Experience Program Video

 

Work Experience Video

 

If you are interested in undertaking a work experience placement in the construction industry you will need to complete the Construction Induction Course.  We currently have a course running on the 8th of May at a cost of $80, please come to the careers office to secure your place.   

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.

 

East Gippsland Shire Council Work Experience Program

The East Gippsland Shire Council Work Experience Program for 2025 is now open for registration.  Placements include:

  • Business/Administration
  • Parks and Gardens
  • Family Services/Childcare/Preschool
  • Sport and Recreation
  • Arts and Culture
  • Engineering
  • Libraries
  • Tourism/Events Management
  • Town Planning and Building
  • Community Services
  • Procurement/Finance
  • Indigenous Employment
  • Local Laws
  • Human Resources

If you would like to be considered for this opportunity, please arrange an appointment with Angela Wren, Career Practitioner, Senior Hub Careers Office.

 

Bairnsdale Regional Health Service (BRHS) Hospital Work Experience Program

The BRHS Work Experience Program for 2025 is now open for registration. This program is a valuable opportunity for Year 10 to 12 students to gain hands-on experience in various areas across the health service. The program runs over three days (Tuesday to Thursday), with both half-day and full-day options available.

 

These placements would be suited to students with a genuine interest in health care and that can carry themselves in a mature, professional manner.  If you would like to be considered for this opportunity, please complete the following documentation and arrange an appointment with Angela Wren, Career Practitioner, Senior Hub Careers Office.      

 

Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary Work Experience 2025 (year 9 & 10 students, 15+)

Nangak's Work Experience Program is designed to foster new skills in young people, create an awareness and appreciation of the conservation and biodiversity management industry and demonstrate the breadth of career opportunities in environmental science, research and education.

Successful applicants may assist in the following areas of the Sanctuary:

  • land management
  • plant production
  • education
  • biodiversity
  • marketing, promotion & interpretation
  • office & administration
  • workshops & tours

The Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary cannot offer any opportunities to work with animals.

Work Experience placements run for one week from Monday to Friday on pre-selected dates throughout the year. Normal working hours are from 9.30am until 4.00pm. As part of your placement, you will be required to undertake some structured learning activities.

There are 4 places available for each of the placement weeks listed below. A maximum of two students can come from the same school for the same placement week.

Placement dates (these dates are subject to change based on other Sanctuary activities happening at the time):

TermDates
413th-17th October - 1 spot remaining

Please ensure you have considered the travel time and distance to and from your home to Bundoora BEFORE you apply for a placement.

How to apply:

  • Let careers know you will be applying
  • Complete the below forms and have your parents/guardians sign them (do not need principal's signature at this stage)

Secondary school students, Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary, Get involved, La Trobe University

 

 

Parliament Of Victoria Work Experience (15+) 

 

Expressions of interest to complete a work experience placement at the Parliament of Victoria in terms 3 and 4, 2025 are now open.  

Students can choose between two programs, Sitting and Services, and placements are open to students in Victorian schools who are residents of Victoria, and are aged 15 years or over at the time of the placement.  Parliamentary Sitting placements provide the opportunity to see the law-making process up close. Students will go behind the scenes with the staff who directly support the sittings of Parliament to get a deeper understanding of our democratic processes.  Parliamentary Services placements offer a variety of opportunities that can be matched with a broad range of student interests and career goals, including business operations, facilities management and maintenance, broadcast (Hansard), and hospitality (kitchen).

Expressions of interest for placements in terms 3 & 4 2025 will close at 5:00pm on Friday 1 August.  All students will be notified of the outcome of their expression of interest by Friday 22 August.

 

Work experience at Parliament House – Parliament of Victoria

 

Future Doctors Australia, Melbourne

 

Organisation: National Institute of Education

Location: Melbourne

Date: October 2 to October 5, 2025

 

Gaining medical work experience is essential for young people considering a career in medicine. It provides insight into the field, helps develop skills and attributes, and provides networking opportunities. However, obtaining medical work experience can be challenging due to various restrictions such as limited opportunities, safety concerns, and confidentiality issues.

 

That's why NIE has developed the "Future Doctors Australia" program. It is an engaging and high-impact 4-day program that provides young people aged 14-18 with a unique opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the rare opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will get to learn about clinical specialist's relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.

  • Over 15 hours of face-to-face interaction with leading specialists and clinicians
  • Meet current medical students
  • Develop advanced communication and team working skills
  • Create new friendships with like-minded, highly driven young individuals
  • Learn about the admission process into various medical universities in Australia
  • Morning tea and lunch included

Find out more and register

 

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

 

Scholarships

Frank Hall-Bentick Education Fund

Organisation: Australian Communities Foundation

Location: Australia

Value: Up to $2,500 AUD

Open Date: January 1, 2025

Close Date: June 30, 2025

Find out more

 

Ellison Scholars Programme

Organisation: Ellison Institute of Technology

Location: All

Value: See details

Open Date: May 1, 2025

Close Date: July 31, 2025

Find out more

 

CoLab Industry Scholarship

Organisation: Bond University

Location: Australia

Value: 25% tuition fee waiver

Open Date: May 1, 2025

Close Date: August 28, 2025

Find out more

 

John Bell Scholarship

Organisation: Bell Shakespeare

Location: Australia

Value: See details

Open Date: March 3, 2025

Close Date: October 30, 2025

Find out more

 

NIDA Open First Nations Subsidy

Organisation: NIDA

Location: Australia

Value: See details

Open Date: January 1, 2025

Close Date: December 31, 2025

Find out more