In this issue

Term 1 is nearly at an end and what a busy term it has turned out to be. I have been really pleased with the number of Year 12 students who have had appointments with me to discuss their future options. For many Year 12 students, planning for the next step can be a nervous time and cause some anxiety. Students may feel pressure to know what direction to take and if they are not sure they may not know where to begin. That is the role of the Career Practitioner, to help guide students through this process and while not always having the magic answer, at the very least, we can provide students with a starting point and the skills to begin their own research.

Many of our universities offer plenty of opportunities for students to attend their campuses and engage with tours and workshops to showcase what some of the possibilities can be for young people. Many of these are listed further down in the newsletter, you will need to register to book your spot so that you do not miss out. These tours do not replace the traditional Open Days that will take place during August. These are just another opportunity to get on campus, in a slightly less frenetic environment and have a look around. It is never too early to start these tours, Year 7 or Year 12; the more opportunities that students are exposed to, the better.  If done in the years leading up to Year 12, it can take some of the pressure off students in their final year of secondary school.

I have also had the pleasure of speaking to the Year 9 students at our Traralgon Campus, helping them to construct their first resume, which will lead to cover letter writing and how to apply for their first part-time job. It was my first visit to the Traralgon Campus since the opening of the Futures Centre and I am really impressed. It was lovely to observe the pride that all students had in their new building. While on campus, I ran into a past student who commenced an apprenticeship this year and they told me how exciting this new opportunity was and how grateful they had been for the support they received to help them make the most of the opportunities offered to gain this apprenticeship. It was wonderful to see the transformation from a student to a young person as they take their place in the adult workforce.

There is still plenty of time to book an appointment with the Careers office before the end of term, all you need to do is email me via sluck@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au.

 “Procrastination makes easy things hard and hard things harder.” – Mason Cooley

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

Work Experience

If you would like to undertake Work Experience during the upcoming term break you need to make contact with an employer to arrange the details then complete the Work Experience Nomination form download here or collect one from the Careers office.  We require this form to be returned to us by this Monday 18 March.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

The Australian Apprenticeships and Traineeships Information Service (AATIS) offers pathways information to students, job hunters, career advisers and employers.  The website, app and resources are used by schools, parents, friends and supporters providing career planning and direction.  AATIS is free to use and is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment.

The Australian Apprenticeships Pathways website – AAPathways – is a hub providing in-depth information about Australian apprenticeships and traineeships, including information on in-demand occupations.

Students are encouraged to browse both the AAPathways website and the AATIS website.

University News

Australian National University Applications for 2025 Entry
Current Year 12 students who intend to apply directly to ANU for undergraduate study in 2025 are advised that direct applications are now open until Monday 13 May.  The deadline to provide all supporting documents is Monday 20 May 2024.

Students are advised to read through Application Information before applying.
To apply visit: Applying to ANU.

New Sustainability Major
The Monash Business School is offering a new Sustainability major in either the Bachelor of Business or the Bachelor of Commerce degrees.  This major will appeal to students interested in a career in sustainability and responsible management.  Over and above this major, the School also offers some interesting units that can be taken as electives across a wide range of other degree programs.
Details of these electives can be found at Sustainability – Monash Business School

Professional Practice in Engineering
Monash Engineering now offers students a range of industry experience opportunities within their curriculum.  Students can choose from a suite of four units designed to provide them with a more enriching and tailored experience and providing them with a competitive edge to their engineering journey.

Students are encouraged to browse Professional Practice – Engineering to find out more.

Gippsland Partnership Program 
The Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Gippsland Partnership Program) is designed to enable Gippsland-origin students* to qualify for the Monash University graduate entry medicine program and then, if selected, complete their medical training in the Gippsland region. Selected students will complete a Federation University biomedical science degree, comprising 16 units of study with Federation University and 6 units with Monash University**.

* Gippsland origin is defined as residency for at least ten years cumulatively or any five years consecutively in a Gippsland region classified as MM 2-7 (Modified Monash Model; includes all Gippsland shires and outer metro regions east of Pakenham).
** Some travel to Clayton will be required for the units undertaken with Monash University.

Secondary Teaching
A revolutionary path into secondary teaching – the Nexus Program provides a first-of-its-kind pathway into secondary teaching.

Nexus students take part in La Trobe University’s eighteen-month accelerated or two-year Master of Teaching (Secondary) or Master of Teaching (Primary), whilst undertaking paid employment in schools (part-time in the first year and full-time in the second year).  On top of their salary, Nexus students also benefit from up to $14,900 in financial support.

Current VCE students considering a career in secondary education are highly recommended to learn more about this excellent opportunity – La Trobe Nexus Program

Dual Electrical Qualifications Program
Earn while you learn!  Combine your A-Grade Electrical Apprenticeship (Certificate III In Electrotechnology – Electrician) and Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Information Engineering) (Honours).

As part of a Victorian Government-funded project, the Ai Group Centre for Education and Training is partnering with industry, Federation University and NECA Education and Careers to create an electrical dual qualification.  The course combines the A-Grade Electrical Apprenticeship (Certificate III In Electrotechnology – Electrician) and Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Information Engineering)(Honours) to produce highly skilled, STEM proficient licensed A Grade Electricians – achieving this combined qualification in a six-year timeframe.

The combination will provide candidates with multiple qualifications and certifications.
Find out more about this program at Dual Electrical Qualification – Federation University Australia.

Work Integrated Learning at Swinburne
Swinburne has incorporated Work Integrated Learning (WIL) into its courses for over 60 years, with 100 per cent of undergraduate students engaging in placements, internships and industry projects.
Students are encouraged to browse Work Integrated Learning at Swinburne and find out more details on how WIL can be accessed through courses at Swinburne.

Students are also encouraged to browse Work Integrated Learning – Student Stories providing personal insight into their experiences at Swinburne.

Events

Australian Defence Force Mobile Careers Centre Visiting Warragul
The ADF careers team is coming to Warragul.  Students are invited for an informal chat with serving members to learn more about a career in the Australian Defence Force, including GAP year and Cadetship information.

To speak with current serving personnel and find out if a career in the Australian Defence Force is for you visit the Mobile ADF Careers Centre (MACC) which will be located outside the West Gippsland Arts Centre on the following dates:

Saturday 23 March, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Sunday 24 March, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Monday 25 March, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

They are also hosting an information session at the Warragul RSL.  
Saturday 23 March, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
at 94 Albert Street, Warragul

If you would like to attend the information session at the RSL please register here: ADF Careers Session  There is no need to make a time to visit the mobile bus, just turn up anytime during the above times.

Collarts Creative Course and Careers Expo
Join Collarts for its new Creative Course and Careers Expo, a night tailored for those with bustling schedules and daytime commitments! Discover the creative qualifications in Entertainment, Design, Performing Arts and Communication, and find a career pathway that fulfils you while hearing first-hand from students and graduates.

The Collarts campuses are open as follows:

Wednesday 20 March 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood
Thursday 21 March 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at 2/156 George Street, Fitzroy

• Learn about creative industry trends and the career opportunities awaiting you.
• Chat one-on-one with lecturers.
• Meet real Collarts students and alumni.
• Tour the state-of-the-art facilities located in the inner-north creative hub.
• Discuss your goals and how to get there with career advisers.
• Learn how you can use your Collarts studies to amplify your current profession or assist you in taking a new career direction.
• Discover flexible study modes to find the one that works for you.
• Free canapes and beverages provided
  Register here: Course and Career Expo.

MYSci Program at Monash University
MYSci is a three-day science program specifically designed for students in Years 11 and 12.

The program schedule will include:

• Hands-on workshops
• Access to the teaching facilities
• Opportunities to meet the research scientists
• Exposure to potential career pathways
• Activities with the Young Scientists of Australia
• Social activities

When: 3–5 April 
Where: Monash Science Precinct, Clayton Campus
Cost: $120 per student

Registration is essential and can be done at MYSci Program

Monash Engineering Girls (MEG)
MEG is an engagement program designed for young women who want to know about the possibilities of a career in engineering.  If you like maths and science, are creative, a problem-solver and enjoy working in a team and designing things, engineering might be the perfect career choice for you.

MEG is open to all Years 9 to 12 girls with an interest in a career in engineering.  Students can join in Year 9 and remain until they finish Year 12.  During that time, students will have the opportunity to participate in a range of special activities and VIP events that will help them gain an understanding of all the different types of engineering.  They will also form connections with others like themselves, have lots of fun experiences and interact with current Monash Engineering students to learn what it is really like to study at Monash.

MEG students are invited to the first MEG event for 2024 on Tuesday 9 April 2024.  Monash Engineering in collaboration with STEAM Engine Co. is delivering a STEAM City Workshop which is exclusive for Year 9 to 12 Monash Engineering Girls (MEG) members and is designed to develop key skills such as problem-solving, design thinking and project management.

This event is an exclusive workshop for MEG members only, so please join MEG to receive the invitation for this workshop.

Find out more and sign up at Monash Engineering Girls (MEG) – Monash University

Photography Workshops in the April Holidays
Photographic Studies College will hold workshops in the upcoming school holidays. The sessions will provide students with practical and hands-on experience in either studio photography or photographing on location and getting a sense of the wonders of street photography.  Students will be encouraged to experiment, explore creative visual approaches and work as a team in small groups!

There will be tips and tricks on using light and much more and the workshop will finish with image reviews.  Students can use their smartphone or bring their DLSR camera if they have one.

Wednesday 10 April, 10:30 am – 2:00 pm – Street Photography
Thursday 11 April, 10:30 am – 2:00 pm – Experimental Studio Lighting

Location:        37-47 Thistlethwaite Street, South Melbourne

Find out more and register at April 2024 School Holidays Workshops

Upcoming Monash Information Sessions
Discover Medicine Webinar
This webinar will cover what it is like to study medicine at Monash, the course structure, placement opportunities, entry requirements as well as rural study opportunities and the application process. Current Monash students will be online to provide insights into their own experiences as well. Even if you cannot attend the Zoom session please still register as you will be sent a link to the recording afterwards.

Thursday 21 March, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Location: Online via Zoom
Register here: Discover Medicine

Discover Biomedical Science Webinar
This webinar will focus on biomedical science (which is the preferred pathway to graduate entry into medicine at Monash), as well as nutrition science.

Thursday 9 May, 5:30 pm – 6:45 pm
Location: Online via Zoom
Register here: Discover Biomedical Science

Monash Information Evening
Students will be able to hear about all of the courses on offer at Monash, as well as entry pathways, SEAS, scholarships and accommodation.

Thursday 23 May, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: Gippsland Conference Centre, Traralgon
Register here: Monash Information Evening

Victoria Police Careers Expo
Victoria Police is hosting a careers expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday 13 April from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Learn more about the exciting and varied career pathways available to you at Victoria Police.

Speak to members from the specialist units such as:

• Air Wing
• Crime Scene Services
• Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section
• Public Order Response Team
• Forensic Services
• Dog squad

For further information visit: Police Career Expo

University Tours

Deakin University Campus Tours in April
Deakin’s tours are the perfect way to begin your university journey to get a feel for campus life.  Students participating in a tour get to experience Deakin’s vibrant campuses and world-class facilities in a study area that interests them.  In addition, staff and students will be available at the course information expo set-up.

Tours will depart daily from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm.

A Day in the Life of a Swinburne Student
Students are invited to go along to Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus to have a guided tour and attend talks, presentations and hands-on workshops in future study areas of interest – a very worthwhile way to feel prepared for uni life.  These free events will run from 9:00 am – 3:15 pm and the location to meet is Advanced Technologies Centre, Hawthorn

Registrations are essential.  Please register at A Day in the Life of a Swinburne Student

RMIT are hosting tours across each of its campuses in the upcoming school holidays, this is a great opportunity for students to find out more about their options after secondary school.
Places are limited, so students are encouraged to book in early as per the dates below:

City: 8 and 11 April
Bundoora: 9 April
Brunswick: 12 April

Browse Campus Tours and register for the campus, day and time that suits you best.

University Tours during the School Holidays
During the April holidays, Monash will be hosting Campus Experience Events whereby students can get a feel for what it is like to study on campus.
Registrations are essential, simply click on the links provided below:

Job Spotlight 

Sports Physiotherapist
The Health Times website indicates that sports physiotherapy is a specialised branch of physiotherapy and sports physios provide advice on how to avoid sports injuries, treat injuries and help recovery for those playing recreational sport right through to elite sport. 

A sports physio is a registered physiotherapist who has achieved further study after completing a physiotherapy degree – in which students achieve an understanding of the physical, structural and physiological aspects of human form and movement.

To become a sports physio, you will first need to complete a four-year bachelor degree in physiotherapy.  Alternatively, students can complete an associated bachelor degree, such as in exercise physiology, followed by a postgraduate qualification in physiotherapy.

Physiotherapists can later choose to practice in sports physiotherapy but are unable to refer to themselves as a sports physio until they have achieved titled membership in the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA).

Courses

Studying Forensic Science at Deakin
Deakin is the only university in Australia offering an accredited Bachelor of Forensic Science degree.
The course exposes students to the full scope of modern forensic science, from simulated crime scenes to courtroom presentations.  There is a strong focus on practical training and students graduate with the skills needed to confidently examine, interpret and present forensic evidence.

This degree is comprehensive and flexible and the course covers a wide range of disciplines including illicit drugs analysis, DNA analysis and more.  Students can elect to customise their degree to suit their interests by selecting to specialise in forensic biology or forensic chemistry.

Find out more at Bachelor of Forensic Science at Deakin

Veterinary Science Degrees in Australia in 2024  

Included in this matrix are a range of courses specific to Veterinary Science or Veterinary Technology or Veterinary Medicine on offer across Australia.

Veterinarians diagnose, treat and help to prevent disease and injury in animals. They advise on measures to prevent the occurrence or spread of diseases and on ways to improve the health and productivity of animals, and supervise safety standards on food supplies. (Good Careers Guide).

Veterinary Science and Veterinary Medicine are similar fields – both involve working with animals, however careers in veterinary medicine focus on hands-on animal care, while veterinary science careers tend to focus more on research and instruction (Indeed Careers Guide).

Click here to view the VCE entry requirements for each course.

Snapshot of La Trobe University in 2024

• La Trobe University is over fifty years old having enrolled its first students in 1967.
• La Trobe University is ranked in the world’s top 300 universities by Times Higher Education World University rankings 2024, is one of the world’s best young universities and is in the top one per cent of universities worldwide – Rankings and Ratings.
• La Trobe has more than 36,000 students and over 3,000 staff, with many courses on offer including numerous double degree options and postgraduate courses.
• La Trobe has three metro and four regional campuses plus a number of residential facilities.
• Over 50 per cent of students who study at the Bendigo Campus come from outside of Bendigo – La Trobe – Bendigo with over 500 students living on campus – La Trobe Bendigo Accommodation.
• La Trobe offers many scholarships – both access and equity scholarships, and academic merit scholarships.
• Student Exchange opportunities are extensive at La Trobe.
• La Trobe ensures that there are opportunities for students to develop skills beyond the knowledge they are gaining at university through work experience, volunteering and student exchange opportunities.
• The excellent Global Markets Accelerator Program is one example of aiding entrepreneurial students in connecting with markets beyond Australia.
• La Trobe has the following Schools and Departments:
  • La Trobe Business School
  • La Trobe Law School
  • La Trobe Rural Health School
  • School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment
  • School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport
  • School of Applied Systems Biology
  • School of Cancer Medicine
  • School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
  • School of Education
  • School of Humanities and Social Sciences
  • School of Nursing and Midwifery
  • School of Psychology and Public Health
• La Trobe’s Student Excellence Academy provides life-changing support and enrichment opportunities that expand on current study and give employment advantages to students.
• La Trobe offers an early admissions program called the Aspire Early Entry Program which is a way to access an adjusted Aspire ATAR for a preferred course and secure an early conditional offer. There are multiple streams to choose from, so students who give back to their community and achieved good results in Year 11, may be offered a place in their preferred course before they complete Year 12.  These students are also eligible for one of forty Aspire Scholarships.
• There has also been a recent restructuring of some courses offered in Allied Health – Health. Some interesting allied health courses offered at La Trobe include:
  Bachelor of Orthoptics (Honours)
  Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours)
  Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics (Honours)