Pathways

Navigating your post-high school pathways

Figuring out what to do after high school can feel like standing at a crossroads with no map. Whether you're considering university, vocational education, or jumping straight into the workforce, making these decisions can feel overwhelming. But don't worry - with some structured thinking and the right resources, you can find a post-high school pathway that's perfect for you.

Reflect on where you are

Before you start researching specific courses or careers, take some time to reflect on yourself:

What subjects do you genuinely enjoy at school?
What activities do you enjoy the most?
What skills come naturally to you?
What values are important to you in a future career?

Write down your answers somewhere; this self-reflection will be valuable as you explore your options.

Explore your options

There's no single "right" path after high school. You and your goals are unique, so it's up to you where to go next. Here are some of the main routes you might consider:

University

Going on to university is probably the right option if you're interested in careers that require specific academic qualifications, and if you enjoy theoretical learning alongside practical application. Undergraduate degrees typically take 3-4 years full-time to complete and can lead to careers in practically any industry you're interested in.

These institutions might also offer part-time or online learning, diplomas, and other qualifications that can be completed in a shorter amount of time (and may count as credits towards a degree in future if you decide to go there down the track).

Vocational education

Vocational education, which includes apprenticeships and traineeships, focuses on combining practical on-the-job training, with job-specific skills and can range from certificates to diplomas. This route could be right for you if you prefer more hands-on learning, want to earn while you learn, and are keen to enter the workforce sooner.

Many trades, technical careers, and service industries prioritise vocational qualifications, but they're also available in emerging industries like IT and healthcare as well.

Work

Some industries and particular roles value experience and on-the-job training more than formal qualifications. Starting work immediately might be the right choice if you've found an opportunity in a field you're passionate about or if you're happy to enter the workforce in entry level positions and aim to work your way up.

Gap year

Undecided about your next steps? That's OK. Taking a year to work, volunteer, travel, or explore different interests could help you gain clarity about your future direction while still developing valuable life skills.

You can take the Gap Year Quiz if you're unsure if this is the right option for you.

Practical steps to take now

Now that you know your options, how do you go about choosing which one is best for you? Following these steps might help:

Do your research

Start by diving deep into the options that interest you most. Attend career expos and institution open days, whether in-person or virtual, to get a feel for different institutions and their offerings. These events often provide opportunities to speak directly with current students and instructors who can give you honest insights about their programs.

Don't limit yourself to just formal events though. Reach out to people already working in fields that interest you and ask them for questions about their job and the pathway they took to get there. Firsthand accounts can be invaluable in understanding what a career path is really like day-to-day.

Experience before you commit

Nothing beats firsthand experience to determine if a path is right for you. Try to arrange work experience or job shadowing in areas you're considering, even a day or two can give you valuable insights into what the work environment is like. Volunteering with relevant organisations is another excellent way to gain exposure while also building your resume and network.

If you're interested in a particular field but not ready to commit fully, look for short courses or workshops that will give you a taste of the subject matter without a major time or financial investment.

Consider the practicalities

As you narrow down your options, think carefully about the practical aspects of each pathway. Consider whether you're willing to relocate for study or work, or if you'd prefer to stay close to home or study online.

Research the financial implications thoroughly. Not just tuition fees, but also living expenses, potential earnings after graduation, and opportunities for scholarships or financial aid.

Be realistic about the time commitment required for different pathways and check the entry requirements carefully to ensure you're taking the right subjects or building the necessary skills to qualify for your chosen programs.

Create a Plan B (and C)

Even the most carefully laid plans sometimes need to change, so it pays to have a backup option in mind. Research alternative entry pathways to your preferred courses - lots of organisations offer options based on a variety of factors.

Consider starting with a related course where entry might be less competitive, with the possibility of transferring internally to your preferred course later. Look into bridging or foundation programs that can help you meet entry requirements if your current qualifications fall short.

And most importantly, remember that there are usually multiple routes to reach the same destination. Having a backup plan can reduce stress if your first choice doesn't work out.

Narrowing down your choices

If you're feeling overwhelmed by choices, try this approach:

Make a list of all the options you're considering
Create a pros and cons list for each
Eliminate options that don't align with your values or practical needs
Research the remaining options in more depth
Talk through your shortlist with trusted advisors (teachers, career counsellors, family members)

Not only will these steps help you to make a decision, but they could also help you to make the best decision.

Helpful resources

Need some places to start researching your future options? You might like to check these out:

For comprehensive course searching

Australia: CourseSeeker

For career information:

Australia: Your Career

Your next steps start now

Your post-high school pathway doesn't have to be linear or perfect - in fact, many successful people change direction multiple times throughout their careers. The most important thing is to make informed decisions based on your own values and goals, not someone else's expectations or what your friends are doing.

If you're still unsure, don't be afraid to ask for help from your school's career advisor, teachers, or other trusted adults. They've helped many students navigate this transition and can offer valuable guidance as you plan your next steps.

Want to learn more about specific pathways? Check out our other resources on open days, future study, work experience, and much more.