As we move through Term 4, many students begin to think about what they will do over the summer break. With the lead up to Christmas, many retail outlets and seasonal employers look for new employees to help during these busy periods. This is a great time to apply for a part-time job to add to your resume. If you do not have a resume or it needs to be updated, book a time with me to make sure you are ready to apply.
There are a few things that you can do to get yourself ready for the workforce such as applying for your Tax File Number (TFN) and your Unique Student Identifier (USI). Both numbers are free to create and will be used throughout your life so once created, make sure you file them in a place where you can find them again when required.
A TFN is your personal reference number that is used in the tax and superannuation systems including applying to university for Fee Help or HECS. This is a unique number that you will have for life, even if you move or change your name or job. You are not legally required to get one, however, without one you will pay more tax and will not be able to run a business or apply for any government benefits. It costs nothing to apply for and is easy to apply online and then confirm your details at your local post office. To apply, visit: TFN application
A USI is your individual education number for life. It also gives you an online record of your vocational education and training (VET) undertaken anywhere in Australia. If you are applying for university, TAFE or undertaking any nationally recognised training, you will need a USI. Without one, you cannot receive Commonwealth financial assistance, your qualification or a statement of attainment for your training. To apply, visit: USI application
‘You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.’ – Zig Ziglar
Sarah Luck
Head of Careers
sluck@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au
The lead up to exams can be daunting, but if you can get organised and plan ahead you will be less stressed and well-prepared to give yourself the best chance possible. The following tips will help you create a study schedule and stay organised;
You can find more study tips on the Study Work Grow website here.
VTAC Personal Statement | Friday 1 December |
ATARs Released | Monday 11 December |
Change of Preference (CoP) closes | Wednesday 13 December |
December Round Offers | Thursday 21 December |
January Round International Offers | Friday 5 January |
January Round Domestic Offers | Friday 12 January |
February Offer Rounds | Tuesday 6 February onwards |
For a full list of cancelled, amended, and new courses, visit VTAC Course Updates
University of Melbourne | Study Engineering and IT: Information Session and Panel Discussion
Discover your pathway to a fulfilling career in engineering or IT as The University of Melbourne presents an engaging information session and panel discussion. The evening will commence with a presentation by leading Professor and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) Jamie Evans, followed by a panel conversation featuring insights from a current student, an academic expert and a representative from the Co-curricular and Internships team.
After the panel discussion, refreshments will be served and there will be an opportunity to network with industry professionals, alumni, academics, current students and staff from the admissions and future students team.
Wednesday 18 October, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Find out more
Work Experience Program (WEP) | Student Exchange Information Session
Imagine making friends from all over the world, learning about yourself and the world around you and seeing sights you could only dream of! Find out more about your student exchange opportunities at WEP’s online information session.
WEP information sessions are free and provide students and parents the opportunity to meet some of our WEP staff, hear all about student exchange opportunities and ask us any questions!
Thursday October 19, 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Find out more
Academy of Interactive Technology (AIT) MasterTalks – Meet the Art Director for Bluey TV show
Level 13, 120 Spencer Street, Melbourne
Head along to the AIT’s studio in Melbourne for the MasterTalk with Costa Daniel Kassab, lead art director for Ludo Studio’s Bluey TV show! Learn about his career journey and get a glimpse into some of the main projects throughout his career.
Places are limited so book your seat now!
Thursday October 19, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Find out more
Medicine and Dentistry for Year 11 students
Current Year 11 students who are considering applying for undergraduate medicine and/or dentistry courses in the future may need to sit the Undergraduate Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) in Year 12 for the 2025 intake. NIE is running a free webinar on Wednesday November 15 that will cover the following questions:
Students and their families can register for the webinar via www.nie.edu.au
For further details about the UCAT visit: UCAT
Magnify Music Camp
15 – 20 January 2024
Magnify is an intensive high-level skills camp for secondary school students between the ages of 14–18 who are serious about career success in the field of music. Run by Box Hill Institute, the camp will run between January 15 – 20 2024. Across daily tutorials, workshops and collaborative sessions students will develop skills in songwriting and composition, improvisation and arranging.
There will be a final concert on Friday night, where students can show off their newfound skills. Entry is by audition and there are only 30 places. The cost is $450.
For further details and to apply visit: Magnify Music Camp
Artistic Performers Entry Schemes
Some universities have entry schemes for people who have been heavily involved in performing arts during their secondary school studies. Applicants must be recognised by an organisation such as: ABC Concerts, Actors Equity Australia, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Australian Dance Council, Australian Dance Theatre, Melbourne Theatre Company, Musica Viva, Opera Australia, The Symphony Australia Orchestras or Victorian Opera.
The following are examples of universities that offer a performer entry scheme:
University and closing date | Information |
Monash University 20 October 2023 |
https://bit.ly/3rqSPI8 |
Australian Catholic University 21 November 2023 |
https://bit.ly/3PHldNX |
The University of Melbourne 1 December 2023 |
https://bit.ly/3F1KJc0 |
Elite Athlete Entry Schemes
Are you an elite athlete? Did you know that you may be eligible for a range of benefits as an elite athlete at university or TAFE? This could include:
The Elite Athlete Education Network (EAEN) provides ‘a network of Australian Institute of Sport endorsed providers in the areas of higher education where athletes can learn and equip themselves with qualifications, knowledge and skills for future careers beyond their sport.’
Applicants must be recognised by an organisation by such as:
Australian Institute of Sport, state institutes or academies of sport, AFL Players Association, Australian Cricketers Association, Australian Professional Footballers Association, and national squad members from Sport Australia funded sports. Note – some universities recognise emerging athletes from eligible organisations.
For information on endorsed institutes and the application process and dates for each institute, visit www.ais.gov.au/career-and-education/eaen
News from Monash University
Pathway through Science to Medicine
Students often ask if they can study a Bachelor of Science to enter graduate medicine, and the answer is YES! Students who complete the Bachelor of Science* at Monash University with the required prerequisite units and achieve a minimum 70+ WAM (Weighted Average Mark), may be offered the opportunity to undertake an interview (Multiple Mini Interview – MMI) and Situational Judgement Test (SJT) as part of the application process.
There is no requirement for Monash Science students to undertake the GAMSAT as entry is an internal process. Students keen on studying science as a pathway, are encouraged to browse this useful link – Science as a Pathway to Medicine.
*Can also include Science double degrees, the Bachelor of Science Advanced Research and Bachelor of Science Advanced – Global Challenges
Master of Medical Ultrasound
The Master of Medical Ultrasound at Monash University is a three-year post-graduate course, designed for students wishing to become accredited Sonographers. Sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to acquire, interpret and selectively record anatomical images, physical data and real-time physiological information for medical diagnostic purposes in conjunction with Medical Practitioners, click here to read more about it: Your Career – Sonographer
Applicants will generally be graduates of a degree program in Radiography or equivalent.
Applicants holding degrees in related disciplines (such as Medicine, Nursing, Biomedical Sciences, Radiation Therapy, Nuclear Medicine or other Health Sciences) are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Find out more: Master of Medical Ultrasound at Monash
New Courses at Federation University Berwick campus
The following courses will be offered by Federation University at its Berwick campus from 2024:
Students are encouraged to browse the above links and apply through VTAC if interested.
Master of Physiotherapy Practice
La Trobe University offers a two-year Master of Physiotherapy Practice at both the Bundoora and Bendigo campuses. Eligibility to apply for this program requires applicants to:
Tertiary-level subjects in neuroanatomy, pathophysiology, psychology, pharmacology, evidence-based practice, research methods or statistics, determinants of health, human movement, biomechanics, communication or education are also desirable.
New Bachelor of Cyber Security
Commencing in 2024, RMIT is offering its new Bachelor of Cyber Security three-year degree. This course has been designed to equip students with the specialist knowledge and expertise to troubleshoot, analyse, design, support and provide cyber security solutions.
The VCE prerequisites are:
Pathways @ RMIT
RMIT has a landing page for anyone who is considering pathway options. It is a handy tool to find out what suitable courses students may think about if they are fearful of not having the correct prerequisites or ATAR.
Visit Find your pathway to study at RMIT
Automotive Apprenticeships and the BMW Group
The automotive industry is evolving at a rapid rate and with it the need in the way it attracts, trains and skills its future workforce. This is not just another automotive apprenticeship, NextTech is at the forefront of automotive technician development and where traditional methods meet the future of technological industry advancement.
Students are encouraged to browse NextGen Jobs and familiarise themselves with the opportunities on offer. Should students be keen on finding out more, they are encouraged to complete this form and NextGen will be in contact with them.
Open Day
NextGen Jobs and BMW Group Australia invite you to their BMW #NextTech Careers Open Day to learn all about the BMW #NextTech apprenticeship program and the 2024 intake which is recruiting now. This is an exciting opportunity for those who are interested in pursuing a career with BMW to take a tour of their state-of-the-art Melbourne BMW dealership and to hear from BMW Group Australia’s Aftersales Director Brett Hocking and current #NextTech apprentices on where a BMW career can take you.
When: Thursday 26 October, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Where: Melbourne BMW – 209 Kings Way, South Melbourne
Scholarships for entrepreneurship and innovation
If you are passionate about starting your own business or changing the world, you might be interested in scholarships for entrepreneurship and innovation. These scholarships not only offer financial support but also provide invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities.
What do they offer?
Entrepreneurial scholarships usually offer more than just monetary aid. They are a nod of recognition to your creative spirit and a vote of confidence in your ability to make a positive impact in the world. These scholarships are designed to fuel your passion, offering resources that can transform your innovative ideas into tangible ventures.
While financial aid is undoubtedly a significant perk, many entrepreneurial scholarships go the extra mile by offering mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and access to additional resources. These experiences can be invaluable in refining your ideas and connecting with like-minded individuals who share your passion.
Who can apply?
With so many scholarships available, it is crucial to narrow down the options that align with your specific entrepreneurial or innovative goals. Some scholarships focus on specific industries like technology, healthcare or sustainable energy, while others encourage a broader scope of creativity. Take the time to research and apply for scholarships that resonate with your vision.
When applying for entrepreneurial scholarships, remember to highlight not only your academic achievements but also your entrepreneurial spirit. Showcase any innovative projects, initiatives, or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to driving positive change.
Scholarships for entrepreneurship and innovation
The following may be of interest:
Once you have secured an entrepreneurial scholarship, embrace it wholeheartedly. Engage with mentors, attend networking events and utilise resources to refine your entrepreneurial skills.
You can find more scholarships and tips on the Study Work Grow website here.
Medical imaging technologists operate X-ray and other imaging equipment, such as MRI and Ultrasound, to produce radiographic images that are used in the diagnosis and subsequent management of disease or injury. Below are links to the specialised medical imaging areas, some of which are detailed in the Good Universities Guide: Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Medical Imaging Technology and useful links – So, you want to be a Sonographer? and Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences at Monash
In Victoria students can study specific medical imaging courses (also known as medical radiography or medical radiations or sonography) at the following universities:
CQU M – Melbourne Campus |
Medical Sonography | Recommended study in English, Maths, Biology, Physics, Science |
Deakin University
G – Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus |
Medical Imaging | Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 22 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics or at least 30 in Maths: Further Mathematics. |
Monash University
C – Clayton Campus
*For the first year, you will study units at both the Caulfield and Clayton Campuses. The units in years two and three are delivered at the Clayton Campus. Some third-year electives may be delivered at the Peninsula Campus. |
Radiation Sciences | Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 27 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics. |
Radiation Sciences (Informatics) | Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 27 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics. | |
Radiography and Medical Imaging | Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 35 in English (EAL) or at least 30 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in one of Biology or Physics; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics. | |
RMIT University
B – Bundoora Campus |
Medical Radiations (Nuclear Medicine) | Units 1 and 2: satisfactory completion in one of Biology or Chemistry or Units 3 and 4: one of Biology or Chemistry; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics. |
Medical Radiations (Radiation Therapy) | Units 1 and 2: satisfactory completion in one of Biology or Chemistry or Units 3 and 4: one of Biology or Chemistry; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics. | |
Medical Radiations (Radiography) | Units 1 and 2: satisfactory completion in one of Biology or Chemistry or Units 3 and 4: one of Biology or Chemistry; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics. |
Virtual Assistants (or VAs) can provide all the services that an office assistant can, from clerical work to marketing, web design, and bookwork, but work remotely instead of on-site. VAs are particularly in demand from online businesses, entrepreneurs, and smaller or mid-size businesses who may not want or have space for the support on-site – but there is really no limit to who you could end up working for.
If you are motivated and resourceful, want a job with lots of flexibility and are happy to get your work done in your pyjamas, this could be a dream career for you.
If you have these skills, you could make a great Virtual Assistant
What tasks can I expect to do?
Roles vary depending on your employer’s needs, but duties could include:
Where do Virtual Assistants work?
You will be doing almost all of your work indoors, and of course, it will be done remotely. This means you will need to have reliable access to a computer and a stable internet connection. On the plus side, you can do your work from nearly anywhere – including your home, your favourite café or the library.
What kind of lifestyle can I expect as a Virtual Assistant?
Part-time and casual work is very common for Virtual Assistants, giving you lots of flexibility in how you structure your day. You will most likely be working normal business hours but if you are an early bird or night owl, you might even be able to negotiate your own hours. Most Virtual Assistants can expect to earn an average salary throughout their career. Demand for Virtual Assistants is growing, as small businesses and entrepreneurs often look to more cost-effective services than retaining on-site employees, and advances in technology make remote work easier and more effective.
How to become a Virtual Assistant
There are no formal requirements for becoming a VA, but finishing high school and completing other training or qualifications may help you get a foot in the door more easily.
Step 1 – Study English, Maths and IT at secondary school.
Step 2 – Consider undertaking a traineeship or obtaining a relevant qualification, such as in business, IT or design.
Step 3 – Find work experience in an office environment.
Step 4 – Ensure you have all the necessary equipment and a comfortable working space. This might include a computer or tablet, internet connection, mobile phone, headset, video camera and any mandatory software.
Step 5 – Start networking. This will help you make contacts, find clients and build up a database of service providers you can call on if you need their skills.
Find out more here:
STEM Hub
Stem Hub is a digital platform connecting students and industry. The hub is open to all university students and graduates from any university. Students who sign up get access to leading industries and potential future employers.
Current senior students planning to study science, technology, engineering, and/or mathematics are encouraged to browse this link and flag this platform as a valuable resource once at university.
Good Universities Guide
Students can search over 400 different occupations narrowed down by the field or type of work they would like to do in the future, explore university courses and compare ratings for undergraduate degrees, www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au
Course Seeker
Students can explore university courses for each state on the one website and can research courses, prerequisites, selection criteria and ATAR profiles for the 2024 intake, www.courseseeker.edu.au/
Australian Apprenticeship Pathways
You will be able to undertake apprenticeship aptitude tests, find local apprenticeship and group training centres, and learn about different trade occupations, www.aapathways.com.au
Four steps to finding an apprenticeship or traineeship
Australian Apprenticeships Pathways has developed a fantastic four-step process for students to follow when seeking an apprenticeship or traineeship, www.aapathways.com.au
My Skills
You can search for and explore vocational courses across Australia, learn about in-demand jobs and watch videos of young people who have completed vocational training, www.myskills.gov.au
Employment Resources
Do you need a Tax File Number (TFN)? If you are planning to get a job or if you would like to study at university or TAFE next year, you will need a TFN. To start the application process, go to www.ato.gov.au
Find out about your rights at work
Learn about your rights, responsibilities, how to resolve issues in the workplace and rules about unpaid work, www.fairwork.gov.au
Learn about safety in the workplace
For your rights and responsibilities, visit www.safe-t1.net.au
How to stay safe – www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/young-workers
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