In this issue

Our Year 12 students are about halfway through their exams, another step closer to beginning their next phase of life. Many have felt the pressure of having to decide which direction to go and whether that will be the right choice for them.  To those students, I suggest making a start in something that interests you and see where it will take you. I know that some students struggle to find that starting point, deciding where and what to study and which is the right direction. There is not really one bad choice, but that choice may not be the right one at that time for you.

For students who feel that they fit into this category, start your research early into the world outside of school. Undertake work experience programs, participate in co-curricular activities, volunteer and attend Open Days at universities and TAFEs to find the right learning environment for you. For many, it is not just about what you will study, it is how you will study and by beginning your research from Years 9 and 10, you can begin to see the differences between each institution and how they might fit best for you. There is no size fits all!

While the Careers Office can give you guidance on what options are available and where to find them, it is up to you to do further research into what option is best for you. By exploring what is available and giving yourself time, you may reduce some of that stress as you travel through Year 12 as you will already have done a lot of research and will have narrowed your choices potentially. It is also important to remember that it is OK if you change your mind. That is what makes us human, it is impossible to know ALL the options available to you while still in school. I have seen students attend Open Days in Year 12 with one goal in mind and come away from the day with something completely different that they want to work towards.

The Careers Office is always open for these discussions, you can email me or speak to your mentor teacher about making an appointment. It is never too early to start having these discussions.

“Teachers can open the door, but you must enter it yourself.” – Chinese proverb

Sarah Luck
Head of Careers
sluck@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Events and Information Sessions

Study and GAP Years in Canada
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?  Learn about Canada’s education system, find schools and apply for scholarships. EduCanada is the official Government of Canada source about studying in Canada for international students and researchers.  Canada’s college and university degrees are recognised worldwide.  Students will be able to enjoy the renowned quality of life, as well as  a diverse and inclusive environment.  Those particularly interested in film/TV, gaming, AI, cleantech and tech industries will be able to benefit from world-class training and job opportunities.

Find out more: www.educanada.ca

Students keen on learning more about studying or working in Canada are invited to register to participate in a webinar hosted by the Consulate General of Canada on Tuesday 14 November, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Register at: Canada 2023

The Gordon Hospitality Bootcamp Short Course
20-21 November, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

This short course delivered by industry expert trainers in state-of-the-art facilities at Geelong will prepare school leavers to work in hospitality venues.  Gain access to employers recruiting for the summer season!  If you put your best foot forward, you could land yourself a job!

The course costs $345 and includes:

• Responsible service of alcohol (RSA)-Online theory to be completed prior to course commencement. You will be given access to the RSA online course content upon enrolment.
• Practical component delivered on day 1
• Non-alcoholic and Mocktail methodology
• Espresso coffee basics
• Food service skills
• Point of Sale/EFTPOS
• Quality Customer service
• Opportunity to showcase your skills

Find out more
Deakin Change of Preference Events
Tuesday 12 December, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Visit Deakin campuses at Melbourne Burwood, Geelong Waterfront, Geelong Waurn Ponds or Warrnambool to speak to experts one-on-one about your study options, the application process, pathways to your dream degree and more.  Explore the campuses with guided tours from knowledgeable and friendly Deakin students on the hour.  Do not miss the opportunity to have all of your questions answered.

Find out more

Federation University Information Days
If you are one of the thousands of students putting in course preferences this year, the Federation University team can assist you with planning your personalised pathway to a dream career. They can help you with your application, enrolment and understanding of the change of preference process at one of the following information days:

Thursday 23 November, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm If you need help with your application and enrolment, come along and have your questions answered by the friendly staff. You can also find out about our wide range of scholarships, as well as flexible online and part-time study options.

Tuesday 12 December, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm A great opportunity to visit your future campus and discuss your study plans with an experienced advisor before making your final decision.  You will be able to meet academics and current students, and speak to the student support and admissions team about completing your application or enrolment.

Find out more

Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) Open Day
AIE is a creative media college offering exciting courses in areas such as Game Art, Game Design, 3D Animation and Film FX and Filmmaking.

Saturday 18 November 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
AIE, Tower 4, Atrium Level, World Trade Centre, 18-38 Siddeley Street, Melbourne. For further information and registration visit: AIE Open Day

Important Dates

For a full list of cancelled, amended and new courses, visit VTAC Course Updates
 

Early Entry Programs

Congratulations to all students who have received an early entry offer or offers. There are a few early entry programs still open. The following are examples:

CQUniversity
Principal’s Recommendation Scheme Victorian, NSW, and QLD courses
Applications close 1 December www.cqu.edu.au

Federation University
Early Offer Program, Victorian courses
Applications close 1 December www.federation.edu.au

Deakin University
Regional Access Scheme, Victorian courses
Applications close 13 December www.deakin.edu.au

Torrens University
Early Entry Program, NSW, QLD and SA courses. Applications close – TBC www.torrens.edu.au

Years 10 and 11 Students

Years 10 and 11 students are invited to explore the Monash University Peninsula campus on Thursday 23 November. A series of exciting workshops will be run focused on business, nursing, health and physical education teaching. Students will participate in two workshops, tour the campus and have a free lunch.

For information and to register your place, visit Monash Peninsula

Traineeship

Traineeships with My Freight Career
Traineeships combine work-based training with an employer and formal training from a training provider. They are a great way to be paid for work while you learn and earn a qualification.  My Freight Career provides education and training that exceeds accreditation guidelines and gives you practical, hands-on skills. They work with host companies to find a role and location that meets your needs, while industry-experienced trainers provide one-on-one education on the job.

My Freight Career offers traineeships in:

• International Freight Forwarding – office-based administrative tasks.
• Supply Chain Operations – office-based administrative tasks and/or physical warehouse/transport tasks.

Plus, every My Freight Career graduate with at least one additional year of work experience is now eligible for entry to the University of Sydney Graduate program. This opens up new opportunities for professional development as you study a Graduate Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

Interested in starting a traineeship? Find out more and apply here.

Interesting Programs

Filmmaking Summer School at Dancehouse, Carlton North
Filmmaking for the Digital Age: this intensive summer school is taught by Australia’s leading film industry professionals and is suited to people of all ages and backgrounds.

12-14 January, 2024
Visit: Summer School

Future Doctors Program – Medicine Work Experience
NIE offers a four-day intensive work experience program for students interested in medicine. The cost is $2,290 (plus transport and accommodation). The program will be held in Richmond from 19 to 22 January 2024 and is currently 45 per cent full. For information and to apply, visit www.niecareers.com.au

University of Melbourne – VCE Summer School
The University of Melbourne will run a two-week summer school in January for students entering Year 12 in 2024.  The program aims to help VCE students from a range of backgrounds gain a head start on their final years of secondary education.  The program has a particular focus on creating a healthy study-life balance and providing tutoring on a wide range of subjects.
Applications will open in the next month or so, students can read about the program and complete an expression of interest for the program via University of Melbourne Summer School

Volunteering Overseas
Projects Abroad is the world’s largest provider of international volunteering, internships and meaningful travel experiences.  They also offer work experience and volunteer programs for secondary school students.  They truly believe that travelling abroad should be easy, fun and rewarding so they take care of everything, allowing you to focus on making the most of your time abroad.
Examples of programs include:

• Medical interning
• Rainforest conservation
• Volunteering with children
• Wildlife conservation
• Diving and marine conservation

Countries include:

• Nepal
• Peru
• Cambodia
• Tanzania
• Botswana
• Ghana
• Thailand
• Costa Rica
• South Africa

Explore the Projects Abroad website for information: Projects Abroad

Young Endeavour Program

In the Young Endeavour program, young people work together to operate a sailing ship over ten to thirteen days and develop leadership and teamwork skills. This is an amazing program and it is very competitive to gain a place. Dates for 2024 are available on the Young Endeavour website. To be eligible you must be at least 16 years old on the date of departure and able to swim 50 metres. The cost is $2,300 and includes accommodation and meals on the ship.

For information, visit Young Endeavour

Career Information

Early Childhood Education
Early childhood education officers play a vital role in a child’s life. They create a nurturing environment that sparks curiosity and sets the stage for lifelong learning. These caregivers and educators help kids grow, explore and build a strong foundation for their bright futures.

Year13 has put together a brand-new short course called Serious about Play in conjunction with the Department of Education and Training Victoria. This program gives a look into the attributes, skills and qualifications needed to begin an exciting journey as an Early Childhood Teacher or Educator, for further details visit: Year13

Aviation Protection Officers (APOs)
APOs are the superheroes of the airport! They are the ones who keep you safe and make sure your adventures in the sky are worry-free. They prevent security issues, respond to emergencies and make sure everyone follows the rules. The role of an AVO is varied but their main tasks are to:

• Provide guidance and direction to employees and visitors at airports.
• Guide passengers and staff through security procedures like body scanners and metal detectors.
• Conduct screening of individuals, luggage, and property to identify potential threats.
• Monitor and patrol the airport, identifying and investigating suspicious activities.
• Actively detect and confiscate prohibited and dangerous items to maintain safety.

Interested in learning more? Check out this exciting occupation via Aviation Protection Officers

Cyber Security
The Australian Defence Force Cyber Gap Program (Year 11 students) 

This program is for you if:

• You are an Australian citizen
• You want to be a cyber-warrior or be on the front line in cyberspace
• You are planning to study cyber security at university or TAFE in 2025
• You would like assistance and mentoring
• You would like assistance with your course fees – you will be reimbursed up to $15,000.

At the end of your studies, there is no obligation to join the ADF. Year 11 students can apply for this amazing program during Year 12 for the 2025 intake. Bookmark the following page and check for application dates next year, Cyber Gap

Built Environment Careers
STEM + Built Environment
Do you love design, business, environmental sustainability, STEM and/or law?  Want to be part of shaping future cities and improving our current ones?  Do you love teamwork, solving problems, being innovative, have great communication skills and excellent attention to detail? The built environment industry needs you!
Examples of built environment occupations include:

• Architecture
• Landscape architecture
• Urban planning
• Urban design
• Land surveying
• Building surveying
• Property valuation
• Civil engineering
• Construction management
• Real estate development
• Heritage consulting

For information on jobs in this exciting industry, read the Careers with STEM Future Cities Shaper information kit via Future Cities Shaper

Unlocking the Magic of Liveable Spaces with STEM!
Imagine a world where architects, designers, urban planners, and construction wizards join forces to create spaces that not only cater to our needs but also protect our planet’s beauty. From preserving trees to using sustainable materials, these STEM superheroes make our world a better place, one building at a time! Read more via Liveable Spaces

Focus on TAFE Courses

Did you know that by November 2026, an estimated 91.7 per cent of job opportunities will require post-school qualifications?  These qualifications include vocational training that you can pursue at institutions like TAFE and polytechnic institutes, which are widely accessible across Australia.  These institutes offer a range of programs, including vocational courses and in some cases, higher education options. Some of them are even affiliated with universities.

In Australia, there are six ‘dual-sector’ institutes, meaning they provide both TAFE and university courses. In Victoria, the following institutes fall into this category:

• RMIT University
• Swinburne University of Technology
• Victoria University/Victoria Polytechnic
• Federation University

These institutions can offer you a diverse range of educational pathways to prepare for the changing demands of the job market.
Why should you consider studying at TAFE?

• TAFE provides an opportunity to trial an industry or career area before you commit to university study.
• You can gain a qualification to use for part-time work whilst undertaking university study.
• Employers love candidates with job-ready skills!
• You can obtain a qualification in a relatively short time frame.
• You do not need an ATAR or prerequisite school subjects for most courses, so the courses are accessible for most school leavers.
• Higher level courses (for example a Diploma) can provide a direct pathway into university courses with credit.

Source: https://labourmarketinsights.gov.au/

Examples:
Luke would love to work with animals in the future but he is not sure what to study. He explores TAFE courses such as:

• Veterinary nursing
• Animal studies
• Pet grooming
• Racing (stable hand, trackwork rider)
• Horse breeding
• Equine studies

Luke cannot decide between veterinary nursing or zoo keeping as a pathway, so decides to start with a general qualification Certificate II in Animal Studies and combine this with part-time employment at a local boarding kennel or volunteer with a local wildlife rescue organisation.
Zoo Keeping pathway: Apply for the Taronga Zoo Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care (at the Melbourne campus).
Veterinary Nursing pathway: Complete the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing via a traineeship or partnership between a vet clinic and a registered training organisation such as the Australian College of Veterinary Nursing.

Rohan is a ‘people person’. He loves interacting with people, is the socialite of the group, loves organising events and is an excellent communicator. He explores courses such as:

• Hospitality management
• Hotel management
• Resort management
• Event management
• Travel and tourism
• Aviation (Cabin Crew)

Lily knows she loves working with people, has excellent written and verbal communication skills, is creative, loves thinking outside the box, is highly organised and enjoys solving problems. She explores the following TAFE courses:

• Public Relations
• Marketing
• Advertising
• Professional Writing and Editing
• Broadcast Journalism
• Liberal Arts
• Library and Information Services

Sheridan loves sciences and health and is considering working in rehabilitation, medical sciences or allied health in the future. She explores the following courses:

• Dental Technology
• Nursing
• Massage and Myotherapy
• Allied Health Assistance
• Laboratory Technology
• Pathology Collection

Examples of occupations with predicted employment growth by November 2026 include:

• Aged and disabled carers
• General clerks
• Chefs
• ICT support technicians
• Electricians
• Education aides
• Child carers
• Plumbers

Applications are open for most TAFE and polytechnic institutes and private providers. The following is important to know:

Competitive courses may have early closing dates.
You may need to complete additional tasks as part of your application such as portfolios, literacy and numeracy tests, information sessions or applying for a Working With Children Check.

To search for TAFE courses, use the following websites:

Victorian Skills Gateway website – Skills Gateway

TAFE Victoria – TAFE

Your Career (Australia wide) – Your Career

Scholarships

Charlie Bell Scholarship for Future Leaders
Charlie Bell Scholarship for Future Leaders: for students who have been treated at a Children’s Hospital for Serious Illness or Injury and will be eligible to attend a tertiary or vocational institution such as University, College, or TAFE in 2024. Selection will be made by the Ronald McDonald House Awards Committee.
Applications close 30 November
Visit: Charlie Bell

Rural Pharmacy Scheme and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacy Scholarship Scheme
These scholarships are for students planning to study a degree that leads to a registrable qualification as a Pharmacist.
Applications close 31 November
Visit: www.ppaonline.com.au

Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship
Scholars must be intending to commence a STEM-related degree at one of five partner universities: RMIT University, University of Wollongong, Queensland University of Technology, Murdoch University or Western Sydney University.
Applications close 15 January 2024
Visit: Westpac Scholars

Youth Work or Social Work Degrees in Victoria in 2023

According to the  Good Universities Guide – Youth Worker, Youth workers develop and facilitate programs to work with and support young people, either individually or in groups, in order to address social, behavioural, welfare, developmental and protection needs.  They work closely with teachers, social and welfare workers, local authorities, health professionals, refuge workers, parents and, in some instances, the police.

Social workers help people deal with personal and social problems, either directly or by planning or carrying out programmes that benefit groups or communities.  They are interested in challenging the structural barriers that contribute to inequality, discrimination, exploitation and oppression within communities.  Social workers can specialise in a range of different practice areas such as children and family, youth, violence, and sexual assault, medical and health, child protection, income support, disability, education, aged care, correctional services, family law, youth justice, community legal, psychiatric and general mental health, refugees and migrants, and Indigenous communities. – Good Universities Guide – Social Worker.

For the most part, English/EAL is the only VCE prerequisite for the following Youth Work or Social Work degrees at the following institutions in Victoria: