Year 10 - Virtual Work Experience

Year 10 Virtual Work Experience Week - Guest Speakers

As part of Virtual Work Experience this week, students had the opportunity to hear from the following past students:

Ben Disseldorp – Police Officer – Victoria Police

Ben graduated in 2013 and completed a Certificate in Criminal Justice before becoming a Protective Services Officer.  He then spent 31 weeks at the Victoria Police Academy to become a serving police officer.  Ben spoke of the need to develop resilience, have a strong work ethic and a positive attitude as being important skills for his role.  He was drawn to this occupation as he is passionate about making a difference and helping people out through difficult times.

Giulia Ralph – Nutritionist and Entrepreneur - Take One Holistic

Giulia is now a qualified nutrition consultant, guest speaker, conference presenter and passionate about plant based eating.  She became aware of the health misinformation distributed by ‘influencers’ on platforms such as Instagram and has based her advice on science.  Her clients include weightlifters, meal-box delivery services and individuals. Giulia created a new client base while in COVID lockdown by shifting her business online and signing on international and interstate clients.  Giulia is also giving back to the community by supporting healthy education programs in schools.

Jessica Taylor – Teacher – Northern Territory Department of Education

Jess studied Musical Theatre after leaving Viewbank College, then a Masters of Teaching (Primary).  After being awarded a scholarship to work in Arnhem Land, she developed a passion for making a difference to the educational outcome of indigenous students in rural and remote areas.  She is now a teacher in the Northern Territory and proud of the difference she is making for these students.

Ben Stevenson – Occupational Therapist – Recovery Partners

Ben was very unsure of his pathway when he was in Year 10.  Initially completing a Bachelor of Health Science, he went on to complete a Master in Occupational Therapy and is now working in the rehabilitation sector with injured workers.  Ben has taken every opportunity to get outside this comfort zone, including taking on a house leadership role in Year 12 and travelling through Europe on his own.  He finds the positive impact he has on his patients very rewarding.

Their top tips for students:

• Say ‘yes’ to opportunities, including leadership, both informal and formal.
• You will stay friends with many of your high school friends so make the most of your time there.
• Be prepared to change direction and that is OK!

Comments from Year 10 Students:

“The guest speakers were very inspiring, learning how they went from picking their Year 12 subjects to selecting what type of extended learning to what job industry they applied for was very eye opening. Most people have their eye set out for a specific job, but more times than not, they don't end up there, and the guest speakers showed us that it’s alright for that to happen.”  Daniel

"I liked how a few of them discussed how during their time at Viewbank, they weren't positive as to what they wanted to pursue as a potential career. But while studying at University, they faced lots of trial and error which lead them to finding the profession they were passionate about. This was very reassuring given that they were unaware what their future looked like in Year 10, but by exploring different pathways and taking advantage of new opportunities, they soon found their perfect job.”  Chloe

“All speakers provided amazing information on what they have been doing in their careers since leaving Viewbank. Each one of them gave great insight into life after school and provided an interesting perspective on all the things that go into having a fulfilling career, apart your ATAR score.”  Sophia

“I liked how varied the speakers were and how they all started in the same place but took completely different pathways to their chosen career”  Gracie

“We had the opportunity to hear from alumni who have achieved success in their respective fields. We were able to gain insight into the struggles we may find outside of our high schools and come closer to figuring out the direction we wish to go. I think it’s important to show students what lies ahead as it can help demystify the outside world.”  Sandra

Ruth Perkins

Careers