Dean of Studies

What does school prepare students for? – One year later

At this time exactly one year ago, I referenced an article* about a survey of NSW school students and some of their top career aspirations. The common careers mentioned, included teacher; veterinarian; defence force personnel; sportsperson; psychologist; engineer, entertainer and mechanic. For many students, the offer of a place at university continues to be a benchmark of achievement, and reinforces the belief that this will lead to a successful career. 

At St Norbert College we continue to direct students to focus on the achievement of personal excellence, across the range of course offerings and academic pathways that are available. Whether the goal is university study through direct entry in the ATAR pathway, or exploring flexible entry in the General pathway, achieving qualifications through TAFE and training providers, or simply seeking regular employment, a student’s journey through the College aims to, ‘be prepared for all good works.’

The Australian Government recently announced changes to some university course fees, and this will impact upon students that intend to enrol at university in 2021 and beyond. The recent announcement by Federal Minister for Education, Mr Dan Tehan, will provide funding for additional university places by 2023 through to 2030 across the nation. The government highlighs the importance of having ‘job ready’ university graduates with the required skills to navigate an increasingly complex and uncertain future. Therefore, the focus of funding will be directed towards courses in education, construction & building, healthcare and science and technology, and will see reduced funding for courses in humanities, creative arts, law and commerce among others.

What does this mean for St Norbert College students? Should students be counselled away from courses that will become more expensive and into cheaper courses that ‘might’ lead to better job prospects? Is the ATAR pathway the sole measure of success at school, or should students focus on gaining technical or work-ready qualifications?

In short, the answer is too complex to be reduced to a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no. In Western Australia, we have also seen universities expand both the alternative entry pathways and early offers to current Year Twelve students. Many of our own students have already received an offer, both unconditional and conditional. The challenge for all students is to maintain the required achievement standards through to the end of this year, and remain focused on maximising their personal excellence.

Despite these initiatives, the foundation for the type of person that a student becomes and the choice of academic or work-ready pathway begins with a foundation built upon clear goals and healthy habits for success. Whilst the degree of security offered with early offers and ease of university entry may have a calming effect and reduce anxiety, a commitment to achieve personal excellence maintains motivation, and teaches the importance of being dedicated achieving goals in life beyond the immediate education and training needs.

Having enthusiasm and passion for topics and courses of interest, and the ability to recognise personal strengths, builds ‘work-ready’ capacity, and enables young people to adapt and respond to the unknown challenges that arise. If this year has taught us anything, it is that we can always be prepared for all good works, and we can start at anytime.

*Source: Gore, J., Holmes, K., Smith, M., Southgate, E., and Albright, J. (2015). Socioeconomic status and the career aspirations of Australian school students: Testing enduring assumptions. Australian Educational Researcher.

Early Offers for Year 12 students – Information from TISC

Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University and the University of Western Australia have announced early offer schemes for 2021 admission, for selected courses. Some universities have introduced additional flexible entry pathways to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Check whether the course you are applying for is included, and what you need to do, by visiting the Curtin, ECU, Murdoch and UWA websites. The early offer program for Semester One, 2021 at the University of Notre Dame, Fremantle has now closed.

To be considered for a Curtin University early offer, apply through TISC. The course for which you would like an early offer should be your first preference. If required, any documents you need to upload can be done through your TISC application.

Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University and the University of Western Australia have advised that you should apply directly to them to be considered for an early offer. You will need to submit any documentation directly to them. You should also submit a TISC application later in the year, if you wish to be considered for other courses alongside your early offer – you should check with the university to ensure you do the right thing, as closing dates and fees do apply.

ATAR Revision Seminars – Parent Committee subsidy

For many Year 12 students, the opportunity to attend ATAR Course Revision Seminars in the school holidays can enhance their examination preparation and course content knowledge. Due to the support provided by the St Norbert College Parent Committee, any Year Twelve student that attends an ATAR revision seminar, is eligible to receive a subsidy ($20) for attending. If you attend a seminar during the July School Holidays, please pay for your course and then return your receipt to the College at the commencement of Term Three to receive the subsidy.

Mr R Dowling (Dean of Studies)