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 My Career Insights Program
Guest Speakers Incursions
Excursions Newsletters
Career Lessons Resume Writing
Job Applications VTAC Support
Senior Careers:
Angela Wren - angela.wren@education.vic.gov.au - 8.30am-4.00pm (Mon-Thurs)
Liz Stevens - liz.stevens@education.vic.gov.au - 8:30am-4.00pm (Mon-Fri)
Junior Careers:
Jaclyn Powell - jaclyn.powell@education.vic.gov.au - 8.30am-4.00pm (Mon-Wed)
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
Job Opportunities
Events
The following events are not Bairnsdale Secondary College events.
Webinars for Parents and Carers from the eSafety Commissioner
Social Media Age Restrictions Explained - 10th & 24th February
From 10 December 2025, certain social media platforms won’t be allowed to let Australian children under 16 create or keep an account. Join the information session to understand the changes.
This 30-minute webinar will help parents and carers understand the upcoming changes to social media access for children under 16.
Join the information session to:
- understand the purpose of the new age restrictions and how they aim to protect young Australians
- understand which platforms will require users to be 16+ and what platforms they can still access
- get tips and resources to support your child’s online safety and wellbeing through the transition.
Parents and carers will gain:
- a clear understanding of the new rules and their implications
- confidence in guiding their child through these changes
- access to trusted resources to support safe and positive online engagement.
This webinar is offered more than once, so you can select the date and time that works best for you.
Supporting Healthy Tech Use as Your Child Transitions into Secondary School - 11th February
As your child moves into high school the influence of peers intensifies and online social connections become increasingly complex, but there is plenty you can do to support them.
This 45-minute webinar explores the social pressures, peer influences, and technological challenges young people face as they transition into secondary school. It also offers practical strategies for navigating online friendships and connections to help minimise negative experiences.
You'll learn:
- what social pressures they may be experiencing online
- how they can build digital resilience and critical reasoning
- how to talk to your young person about what they see and do online
- practical strategies for promoting positive peer interactions and help seeking behaviours.
This session is suitable for parents and carers of children in upper primary school (ages 11 to 12) and Year 7.
Understanding and Using Parental Controls to Help Protect Your Child Online - 5th March
Learn how parental controls can be used to prevent children accessing harmful content, manage time spent online and who they communicate with.
In this 45-minute webinar, we’ll explore how parental controls can be used alongside other online safety strategies to protect your child online.
You’ll learn:
- the types of parental controls available – including on smart devices, in gaming platforms and on apps
- how they can help prevent children accessing harmful content
- how to use them to complement other online safety strategies.
This session is suitable for parents and carers of young people in primary and secondary school.
National Fashion House | Open House: Immersive Fashion Workshop in Melbourne - 14th February
This hands-on experience is perfect for anyone curious about how fashion really works behind the scenes. Whether you love creativity, photography, styling, or simply want to explore something new, this session gives you a taste of the fast-paced world of fashion - no background or knowledge needed.
You’ll work in small, supportive teams guided by industry professionals who will show you how creative campaigns are built from concept to launch. The day begins with a warm welcome and Q&A hosted by NFC’s Founder & Director, offering insights into creative careers and what makes fashion such an exciting and collaborative industry.
Then, your challenge begins. Each team receives a mystery campaign brief revealing their brand and celebrity ambassador. From there, you’ll rotate through three dynamic stations: Styling & Creative Direction, Photography & Art Direction and PR & Events.
No one needs to model, dress up, or have fashion experience - just bring your ideas, curiosity, and creativity. Every attendee receives a detailed campaign notebook to capture their concepts and reflections throughout the session.
The experience wraps up with a Q&A where you can ask questions, share insights, and connect directly with fashion experts.
To top it off, all participants will take home an exclusive NFC Gift Bag, filled with fashion and beauty goodies to remember the day.
Session times:
- Session 1: 9:00am - 11:30am
- Session 2: 12:00pm - 2:30pm
- Session 3: 3:00pm - 5:30pm
NFC PRESENTS: OPEN HOUSE — PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival
STEM + X: Science - Webinar for students, teachers & parents - 25th February
The world is changing so fast, but science skills are only gaining importance. There’s huge demand from emerging science fields including quantum computing and genetic engineering. And existing science fields like ag science and astrophysics are transforming fast too. The question isn’t 'why science', it's 'which science'?
Join Careers with STEM for a free STEM + X career webinar, supported by QUT, to hear from science aces blazing a trail from horse hoof disease to lithium ion battery tech, to growing crops in space!
ADHD Webinars for Students & Parents
Hosted by Claire Pech, CICA-Accredited Careers Practitioner, and Amanda Krulis, endorsed Organisational Psychologist.
View the full series of webinars for the ADHD community on all things careers, schooling and the workforce.
Year 12 & Beyond with ADHD - 26th February, 2026
Targeted to parents of students with ADHD in Year 12, this webinar will share insights and practical solutions for managing this critical year and beyond and making meaningful career decisions.
2026 - Year 12 & Beyond - With ADHD
Year 10 & Beyond with ADHD - 5th March, 2026
For parents of students with ADHD in Year 10, this webinar explores how to navigate the key decision points of the senior school years, support effective planning for post-school options, and help your teen build confidence in their future direction.
They’ll unpack the unique challenges ADHD can bring to this stage — from planning and procrastination to emotional regulation — and explore how to make study and career decisions that align with your child’s strengths, values, and readiness.
Simpson Barracks Army Expo: Simpson Barracks - 14th March
Victorian Careers & Employment Expo - 19th-21st March
Victorian Careers & Employment Expo is open from March 19 to 21, 2026 at the Melbourne Showgrounds. The Expo will showcase over 130 organisations and employers with career opportunities for all ages. Entry is free.
The event is for school students, parents, teachers, graduates, job seekers, people looking for courses, and workers seeking new opportunities.
The Expo is packed with free advice, where you can:
- Talk with over 130 training organisations and employers
- Gain free career advice
- Discover jobs of the future
- Talk with leading organisations about training and apprenticeships
- Experience the free career seminars
- Enjoy the "Try a Skill" Zones
If you're looking for a job, career change, or course, or you're a school student looking for a career path, you can’t afford to miss the Expo.
Victorian Careers & Employment Expo
Australian National University (ANU) | Open Day - 28th March
This is a chance for you to tour ANU'S beautiful campus, learn about our courses and programs and hear about the student experience from current ANU students.
Students who register to attend ANU Open Day will go in the draw to win a trip for two to Canberra!
ANU Open Day | The Australian National University
VCE and Careers Expo - 30th April-2nd May
The VCE and Careers Expo 2026 is Melbourne's biggest education and career event, for 34 years connecting over a million high school students, parents, teachers, and jobseekers explore study and employment pathways. It brings together universities, TAFEs, training providers, employers, and career advisers in one location to provide practical information about courses, apprenticeships, and career options.
The event aims to support informed decision-making about future study and work choices through exhibits and VCE seminar presentations.
VCE and Careers Expo 2026 | Melbourne's Premier Careers and Education Event
Dairy Program Expression of Interest - April School Holidays
Are you aged 15-17 and curious about the dairy industry? A Next Gen Dairy program is being planned. GippsDairy is exploring interest for a 3-day program during the April 2026 school holidays, designed for young people who want to gain a deeper understanding of the dairy sector — from farm to factory and beyond!
Participants will:
- Visit leading dairy farms and processors
- Learn about animal care, technology, and sustainability
- Meet people working across the industry
- Explore career and training pathways
Expressing interest will require parent/guardian contact details and basic information about the young person.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NexGenEOI
Please note this is not a Bairnsdale Secondary College Event and will be run and coordinated by Gipps Dairy.
Future Doctors Australia
The Future Doctors Australia Program provides a unique, hands-on opportunity for students aged 14-18 who are passionate about a future in medicine. Over the course of 4 days, participants will engage in dynamic sessions led by experienced medical specialists, take part in practical learning activities, and gain valuable insights into the medical admissions process. This program is designed to inspire and equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed on their path to a medical career. Don’t miss this chance to gain first-hand knowledge and mentorship from medical professionals who are shaping the future of healthcare.
2026 dates:
| Perth | 9 - 12 April (1 spot) |
| Sydney | 9 -12 April (1 spot) |
| Sydney | 16 - 19 April (67% full) |
| Melbourne | 16 - 19 April (25% full) |
| Brisbane | 2 - 5 July (13% full) |
| Sydney | 9 - 12 July (17% full) |
| Perth | 16 - 19 July (17% full) |
| Melbourne | 24 - 27 September (17% full) |
| Sydney | 1 - 4 October (4% full) |
NIE Careers | Future Doctors Australia
Victorian Careers Show - 13th-15th May
The Victorian Careers Show 2026 is teacher-founded and teacher-led, connecting VCE students, teachers, jobseekers and parents with Victoria's top universities, TAFEs, training providers, employers and career experts. It is designed to help high school students, parents, teachers, and jobseekers explore study and employment pathways. It brings together universities, TAFEs, training providers, employers, and career advisers in one location to provide practical information about courses, apprenticeships, and career options.
The event aims to support informed decision-making about future study and work choices through exhibits and VCE seminar presentations.
Victorian Careers Show 2026 | Melbourne Showgrounds Careers & Education Expo
Work Experience
Work Experience (WE)/Structured Workplace learning (SWL)/School Based Apprenticeships/Traineeships (SBAT)
Work experience is available to students that are 15+ years old.
SWL is available to students doing a VET Course in their VCE/VM Pathway.
SBAT’s are available to Year 10-12 students through our Headstart Program by application and availability only.
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.
Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) Work Experience (year 10 students)
This program allows successful applicants to gain experience working in the arts and culture industry. As part of the program, students will spend a working week onsite at ACMI, engaging with various ACMI teams, members, and departments, whilst embarking on a filmmaking task.
It is a hands-on, production based program run by the ACMI Education team, and involves working with 1-2 other students - so be prepared to collaborate!
In 2026, we will run two 2 x one-week programs on June 15-19, and June 22-26, 2026.
Applications close 15th February.
Work Experience at ACMI | ACMI: Your museum of screen culture
Melbourne Theatre Company Work Experience (years 10-12 students, 15+)
Work experience placements at Melbourne Theatre Company offer high school students the opportunity to observe one week of rehearsals at their Southbank headquarters.
Students shadow the Stage Management team to see how a professional rehearsal room operates. A typical week includes attending production meetings, notating blocking, sourcing props and assisting the stage manager as required.
Victorian high school students in Years 10–12 can apply for a placement. Preference will be given to Year 11 students.
2026 placement dates:
13 APR – 17 APR: Shoelace Chaser
20 APR – 24 APR: Retrograde
18 MAY – 22 MAY: Losing Face
22 JUN – 26 JUN: Uncle Vanya
24 AUG – 28 AUG: Eliza
21 SEP – 24 SEP: Before I Forget (This is an identified position for a First Nations student)
Applicants should be aware of the mature content of some productions. Please read the content warnings on each play page before applying for a placement.
Applications for placements close Fri 20 Feb 2026.
Work Experience | Melbourne Theatre Company
Swinburne University Work Experience (ages 15+)
Swinburne University of Technology welcomes senior secondary students to participate in work experience at the university. These one-week placements give students the opportunity to work with their academics and professional staff and to:
• develop employability skills
• explore possible career options
• understand employer expectations
• build self-understanding, maturity, independence and self-confidence
Technical Skills in Laboratory Management
Program overview
Students will learn aspects of OHS and technical skills required to run Science Laboratories.
Students will learn about:
• Equipment calibration and maintenance.
• Chemical inventory and management.
• Safety documentation; creating Safe Work Instructions, Standard Operating Procedures and Risk Assessments.
• Common laboratory techniques and equipment; PCR, electrophoresis, cell culture, analytical instruments, materials characterisation, light and electron microscopes, microbiology culture techniques.
The Technical Skills in Laboratory Management program will run on the following dates:
• Week 1: Monday 29 June to Friday 3 July 2026
• Week 2: Monday 6 to Friday 10 July 2026
To apply, complete the School of Science Work Experience Application and submit your resume. Places are limited, and applications will close on Friday 20 February 2026.
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Program overview
Students will learn aspects of astronomy and astrophysics research at Swinburne.
Students will have a chance to:
• Search for pulsar signatures in radio observations.
• Classify galaxy morphologies.
• Identify strong gravitational lenses.
• Search for peculiar motions in simulated galaxy mergers.
• Produce visualisations of galaxies and galaxy groups.
• Participate in real-time remote observations.
• Attend scientific talks and group meetings.
• Prepare teaching materials.
Applications for the astronomy and astrophysics program open Monday 16 February 2026 and will close Friday 6 March 2026. You will be asked to submit your resume and a cover letter that expresses your interest in the program. Places are limited, and applicants will be informed of their outcome by 31 March 2026.
Program dates and an application link will be published in early 2026. For inquiries, please email CASWorkExperience@swinburne.edu.au
Engineering
Program overview
Students will experience different disciplines of Engineering at Swinburne.
Students will have a chance to:
• Gain knowledge about different Engineering disciplines including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical & Electronics, Biomedical, Robotics & Mechatronics, and Software Engineering.
• Learn about relevant cutting-edge research and real-world engineering applications.
• Work in laboratories and gain exposure to emerging areas such as Renewable Energy Systems.
• Undertake a short project during their stay, encouraging independent learning and problem-solving skills.
• Spend time with current Swinburne engineering students on campus, including involvement with FSAE teams assisting with vehicle design, testing, and build activities.
• Inspect a Hybrid Electric Vehicle designed and built by Swinburne engineering students.
• Attend information sessions about Swinburne’s engineering offerings and future career pathways.
Applications for the Engineering program will open from 1 May 2026 and will close on 1 June 2026. The program will run on the following dates:
- Monday 22 June to Friday 26 June 2026
To apply, please complete this form and submit your resume. Places are limited, and candidates will be notified of their results via email by 16 June 2026. For inquiries, please email Assoc. Prof. Mehran Ektesabi at mektesabi@swinburne.edu.au.
Defence Work Experience Programs (ages 15+)
The ADF are pleased to invite high school students aged 15–18 years to participate in Defence’s Work Experience Programs being delivered across Victoria in 2026. These youth‑focused programs introduce students to the wide range of career pathways available within the Australian Defence Force (ADF), including the Navy, Army and Air Force, as well as the Australian Public Service (APS).
All program information and links to apply online are available through their website Defence Careers - Jobs List - Defence Work Experience
Successful applicants will be notified via email. Students should read the details carefully so they understand what each program offers. They have more exciting programs planned for this year and will continually update their website as dates are confirmed. So, keep an eye on the website!
Defence Work Experience Programs
Introduction to Navy Program: HMAS Cerberus (April)
Crib Point VIC / Tuesday 28 – Thursday 30 April
- This work experience program will run over 3 days at the Navy's premier training establishment, HMAS Cerberus.
- Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from the Navy base each day.
- Metropolitan Melbourne students are strongly encouraged to apply for this program, as regional student applications will be prioritised for the Navy July program below.
- Online applications close 15-Mar-2026
- For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Introduction to Navy Program: HMAS Cerberus (April)
Army Familiarisation Program: Puckapunyal Military Area
Puckapunyal VIC / Monday – Thursday June TBC
- This program is anticipated to be in June and will be advertised on the website soon.
- This work experience program will run over 4 days and will introduce students to career opportunities with various Army Units including Artillery, Armour and Transport.
- This is an overnight program with meals and on base accommodation provided at no cost to successful applicants.
STEM To The Rescue: Wantirna (June)
Wantirna South VIC / Monday 22 – Friday 26 June
- This 5 day program offers an immersive experience to tackle real-world STEM challenges. Students will have the opportunity to visit a range of Defence and industry facilities focused on STEM innovation.
- Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from Wantirna South each day.
- Online applications close 26 Apr 2026.
- For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - STEM To The Rescue: Wantirna (June)
Introduction to Navy Overnight Program: HMAS Cerberus (July)
Crib Point VIC / Monday 20 – Friday 24 July
- This Navy work experience program is open to Victorian, Tasmanian and New South Wales students. Students will arrive at HMAS Cerberus on Monday, 20 July (afternoon) and depart on Friday, 24 July (morning).
- This is an overnight program where meals and on base accommodation will be provided at no cost to successful applicants.
- Online applications close 17 May 2026.
- For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Introduction to Navy Overnight Program: HMAS Cerberus (July)
STEM Immersion: Fishermans Bend
Melbourne CBD / Monday – Thursday June TBC
- This program is anticipated to be in June and will be advertised on the website soon.
- This work experience program has been developed to showcase a variety of STEM careers available in Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and with Industry Partners.
- Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from Melbourne CBD each day.
Army Familiarisation: Puckapunyal Military Area
Puckapunyal VIC / Monday – Thursday October TBC
- This program is anticipated to be in October and will be advertised on the website soon.
- This work experience program will run over 4 days and will introduce students to career opportunities with various Army Units including Artillery, Armour and Transport.
- This is an overnight program where meals and on base accommodation will be provided at no cost to successful applicants.
STEM Immersion: Fishermans Bend
Melbourne CBD / Monday – Thursday November TBC
- This program is anticipated to be in November and will be advertised on the website soon.
- This work experience program has been developed to showcase a variety of STEM careers available in Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and with Industry Partners.
- Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from Melbourne CBD each day.
Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary Work Experience (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):
| Term | Dates |
|---|---|
| 1 | 16th-20th March |
| 2 | 4th-8th May 1st-5th June |
| 3 | 27th-31st July 24th-28th August |
| 4 | 19th-23rd October |
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 principals' signature at this stage)
- Click the following link and complete the online form - Work Experience Application Form, Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary, Get involved, Secondary school students, La Trobe University
Secondary school students, Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary, Get involved, La Trobe University
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