Careers Corner

As we approach the end of Term 3, much of the Careers Department's time is focused on supporting our Year 12 students as they complete the final steps of their secondary schooling journey.

While this is an exciting time and a significant milestone worthy of celebration, it is also an important period for students to give careful consideration to their future career and study pathways. Many Year 12 students are currently preparing for the upcoming VCAA examinations. At the same time, most are completing the requirements associated with applying for university courses through their VTAC accounts. Supporting students through the VTAC process, particularly course selection and preferencing, is currently a major focus for Careers staff.

There are also a considerable number of VCE students undertaking an unscored VCE and, therefore, not sitting the final examinations. These students are also exploring their post-school options. While some will apply for tertiary education through VTAC, many are considering alternative pathways, including certificate and diploma courses at TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships, employment opportunities, or a Gap Year.

For many students in the VCE Vocational Major (VM) program, the pathway beyond secondary school leads directly into employment. A significant number are progressing into apprenticeships or traineeships, often with employers through whom they have completed their weekly Structured Workplace Learning (SWL).

We trust that the career-focused learning and experiences provided throughout the senior years have given students a solid understanding of the many opportunities available to them. Our hope is that they leave school equipped to pursue futures that reflect their interests, strengths, and aspirations, while also responding to the needs of an ever-changing world.

Term 3 has been particularly busy, with a range of career-focused activities and events, including Badano lessons, the Subject Expo, individual meetings with all Year 10 students to discuss subject selections, the subject change request period, and off-campus excursions to careers expos and tech and trade experience days. In addition, many students have taken advantage of individual careers appointments to discuss matters such as subject selection, career pathways, university courses, VTAC applications, SEAS (Special Entry Access Scheme) applications, unscored VCE options, international study opportunities, and university early entry programs.

Mrs K Registro

Careers Department Leader

Strong Habits Create Future Opportunities

Years 7–9 are important years in every student’s learning journey. During this time, students develop the knowledge, routines, and personal qualities that prepare them for Years 10–12 and the pathways available beyond school. These middle years are when students begin connecting their interests and strengths with subjects that may shape later career decisions.

Consistent academic progress helps keep future options open. Strong results may provide access to a wider range of senior subjects, VET programs, and pathways into university, TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships, and employment. While results during Years 7–9 do not determine a student’s future, positive habits and sustained effort can create greater choice later.

With the school holidays approaching, we encourage families to support students in maintaining their focus and finishing the term positively. The break is then an opportunity to rest, recharge, and reset before Term 4. Discussing one or two achievable goals at home can help students return with renewed motivation and a clear sense of purpose.

During the final term, students will complete important course content, consolidate their learning, and prepare for examinations and final assessments. Every lesson matters. Regular attendance, arriving prepared, completing required work, and responding to teacher feedback will place students in the best position to demonstrate their abilities.

Parents and carers can assist by encouraging a regular home study routine, checking upcoming deadlines, and discussing what their child is learning. Effective preparation might include reviewing class notes, creating summaries, completing practice questions, and following a realistic study timetable. Beginning early builds confidence and reduces the pressure associated with last-minute preparation.

These habits also develop qualities valued by employers, including reliability, organisation, resilience, initiative, and a willingness to learn. By finishing the term positively, students can strengthen their results and preserve a broad range of meaningful career opportunities.

Mr D Holt

Pathways (7-9) Counsellor