Do you need to change your University preferences?

So you’ve applied to university – congratulations! Perhaps you’ve applied through an admissions centre, or maybe you applied directly to the university of your choice. Either way, did you know that once you’ve submitted your applications, they’re not set in stone? Right up until the very last offer round, you can always change your preferences.

Preferences – the basics

By the time you’ve submitted your applications, it’s assumed that you understand ‘preferences’ and what it means for your application. But just in case you’re still a bit uncertain, let’s explain.

Preferences is just a term for the courses you want to apply for, listed in the order you’d like to study them. They’re also sometimes called choices or selections.

We recommend that you list your dream course/s first, some more realistic options next, and one safe option last. That way, you’ll increase the chances of receiving at least one offer in the main offer rounds. Listing the maximum number of possible preferences on your applications is also a good strategy.

Flexibility can be handy

If you’re certain that you’ve applied to the best university and selected the best courses for you, that’s great! All you need to do is move on and wait for an offer.

But if you decide you’re not happy with your choices, or perhaps the order of your courses just isn’t sitting right with you any more, guess what? There’s good news – the whole applications system is designed to allow you to change your preferences.

When can you change your preferences?

Most universities and admissions centres provide plenty of opportunities to change your preferences. After submitting your application and before the first offers are released, you can usually log in to your application and adjust your preferences.

Changing your preferences is usually free, but some institutions may charge a fee. In some cases, you might need to pay a fee if you change them more than two or three times.

If you’re applying through an admissions centre, here are the change of preference cut-off dates for the main rounds of offers:

Admission Centre

Results date                               Offer date                                   Change of preference cut-off

UAC

18 December 2024                      23 December 2024                       18 December 2024

VTAC

12 December 2024                      23 December 2024                       14 December 2024

QTAC

13 December 2024                     23 December 2024                        18 December 2024

Note: If you’ve received an early offer for one or more of the courses on your preferences, and you’d still like more offers during other rounds, it’s best to call the admission centre directly if you’re unsure about what to do next.

Once the main round of offers are released, another window usually opens up. You’ll have the chance to change your preferences again and possibly receive more offers, then choose which one to accept. Or, if you didn’t get an offer in the first round, you can wait and see if you receive one in a subsequent round.

What if I’m applying directly to the university?

If you’re submitting your application direct to the university, you’ll need to check with them if:

1. They allow you to change your course choices after your application has been submitted, and

2. Whether there is any cut-off dates you need to change your preferences by.

Some universities will let you swap your course choices right up until you receive an offer. Others might ask you to complete a separate application if you change your mind about your course. We recommend you check the details on their website or contact them directly to confirm your options.

A note about quota and high-demand courses

If all the places in a course have been filled after the first offer round, you won’t be able to add it to your list in subsequent rounds.

If a course has an earlier closing date than the regular deadline, it’s highly likely you won’t be able to add it to your list once this date has passed, even if change of preference is still open.

If you want to apply to a course that is in high-demand or has caps on places, you should get your application sorted ASAP to ensure you don’t miss out.

Top tips for changing preferences

1. Spend some time considering why you want to change your preferences before you go ahead and do it.

2. Check if any fees or cut-off dates apply.

3. If you’re unsure about what to do, contact the admissions centre or university for advice.

When might you decide to change your preferences?

Consider adjusting your preferences if:

• Your results are better than you expect. If there’s a competitive course you looked over because you didn’t think it was a realistic option before, move it to the top of your list.

• Your results aren’t as good as you had hoped for. To increase your changes of receiving an offer, put any courses you’re eligible for at the top of your list.

• You have a change of heart about the best course or university for you.

• A new course has become available and you think it would be perfect.

• You discover a course you didn’t know about when you applied.

• You find out that the prerequisites for a course you had on your list have changed.

• The course you applied for has been dropped by the university.

• You’re looking back over your application and realise you didn’t put your preferences in the right order.

Is changing your preferences really necessary?

If you get higher results than you expected (yay you!), don’t immediately rush off and change your preferences just because you can. If you’re happy with your preferences, the best thing to do is stick with them – there’s no such thing as ‘wasting’ good grades.

You might feel pressured into thinking you should change your list, particularly if your friends are talking about changing theirs and cut-off dates are coming up. Take a breath, spend some time researching any changes you’re thinking of making, and make sure you’re doing it for all the right reasons.

Finally, double check any prerequisites and eligibility requirements before you add or move a course. It would be a real shame to miss out on an offer because you didn’t take a few minutes to read the entry criteria.

Don’t panic

If you miss the change of preference cut-offs for the first round, that’s OK – you’ll get the chance to change them again before the next offer round.

If all the rounds are over and you have an offer, but it’s not for the course you really wanted, call up the university and find out what your options are. You might be able to start a different degree then transfer after completing a few subjects.

Most importantly, if you don’t receive any offers at all, please remember that you still have lots of options. Most institutions have at least one alternative pathway, from bridging courses to experience-based entry options. You may be surprised to learn about the number of choices available to help you get into the university of your dreams.

Why an apprenticeship might be right for you

Are you at a crossroads in your career journey, wondering which path to take next? Have you considered the often-overlooked option of apprenticeships? They offer a unique blend of hands-on experience, practical skills development, and academic learning. Let’s take a look at the benefits of apprenticeships and explore why this path might be right for you.

What makes apprenticeships unique?

Before knowing whether an apprenticeship is right for you, we need to look at what they offer. Here are some of the benefits of apprenticeships.

Hands-on experience

One of the main advantages of apprenticeships is the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in your chosen field from day one. Unlike traditional classroom learning, where theoretical knowledge is the focus, apprenticeships provide real-world exposure to the challenges and responsibilities of the job.

Earn while you learn

How does it sound to be paid to learn…pretty great, right? Instead of accumulating student loan debt or relying on financial aid, apprentices receive a paycheck for their work. This helps offset the cost of living and allows you to support yourself financially while you learn.

Practical skills development

This sounds the same as hands-on experience, but there’s a difference. Apprenticeships focus on developing practical skills that are directly applicable to the workplace, both technical and transferable. Whether it’s mastering a specific tool or honing the art of communication, apprenticeships are great at preparing you for any career.

Industry connections

One of the lesser-known benefits of apprenticeships is the opportunity to build valuable connections within your industry. Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll have the chance to work alongside experienced professionals, mentors, and fellow apprentices who can offer guidance, support, and networking opportunities.

How do I know if an apprenticeship is right for me?

Now that we’ve covered their benefits, here are some questions you can ask yourself to see if an apprenticeship might be right for you.

Are you interested in hands-on learning?

If you prefer learning by doing rather than reading, an apprenticeship might be a good fit. They offer practical, real-world experience in your chosen field from day one.

Do you learn best in a structured environment?

Apprenticeships typically follow a structured training program that combines on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. If you thrive in environments with clear expectations and a defined pathway, an apprenticeship could be suitable for you.

Are you ready to start working and earning a wage?

Unlike traditional academic programs, apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn while you learn. If you’re eager to enter the workforce and start making money, an apprenticeship may be the right choice. Just remember that this also comes with all the responsibilities of a job too, like showing up on time, trying your hardest, and following instructions.

Do you have a specific career goal in mind?

Apprenticeships are often tailored to specific industries or trades, such as construction, healthcare, information technology, and more. If you have a clear idea of the career path you want to pursue and there are apprenticeship opportunities available in that field, this could be your best option.

Are you willing to commit to a longer-term training program?

Most apprenticeships require a commitment of several years to complete, during which you’ll work full-time while also attending classes or training sessions. So ensure you’re prepared to invest the time and effort required to complete the program.

Do you value mentorship and on-the-job support?

If you appreciate the opportunity to learn from others and receive hands-on support as you develop your skills, an apprenticeship definitely offers these perks. But don’t forget that other educational programs and courses can include opportunities for mentorship too, like internships, cadetships, and even work experience.

Are you open to continuous learning and growth?

Apprenticeships offer the chance to continually learn and improve your skills as you progress through the program and advance in your career. If you’re motivated to pursue lifelong learning and adapt to new challenges and opportunities, an apprenticeship can provide a solid foundation for your professional development.

Where can I study Architecture?

The following schools offer architecture courses that are recognised by the Australian Institute of Architects and accredited by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) and the relevant state/territory architecture boards.

https://www.architecture.com.au/explore/education-standards

Where can I study Psychology?

The following degrees are accredited as an entry point to becoming an accredited psychologists.

https://apac.au/accredited-programs/search-a-program/?posts_per_page=10&paged=1&action=get_programs&sort=level_a-z&state%5B%5D=87&level%5B%5D=86&level%5B%5D=91&search=

Ready to set some goals?

Let’s face it; if you don’t know where you’re going, it’s unlikely you’ll get anywhere. Imagine hopping in the car or on the bus without knowing where you want to go – you’d be wasting your time, right? That’s why we set goals. They give us a sense of direction and focus for our future so we can get there faster and with less stress.

Going through the process of setting goals could help you to combat anxiety, improve your mental focus, and increase your chances of successfully getting what you want. If you’re keen to make a start, take a look at the types of goals you can set and how to go about it.

There are three types of goals

At their most basic, you can split your goals into short-, medium-, or long-term.

Long-term goals 

Think 5 to 10 years into the future, or even further, to set your long-term goals. While you’re still in high school, your long-term goals might include establishing a career that you’ll love, buying a house, or traveling overseas. This is your chance to really aim high, because you have the most time to prepare.

Medium-term goals 

We’re talking between 1 and 5 years here. Work out needs to happen in the next few years to help you achieve your longer-term goals. In high school, medium term goals might include:

• Saving up for a car

• Finding a part-time job

• Being selected for school captain

• Achieving better marks

• Heading off to study

• Planning a gap year

Short-term goals 

What do you want to achieve in the next few weeks or months? Short-term goals should be clear and achievable, and can include things like learning a new skill, passing an upcoming exam, or even just cleaning out your room.

Setting goals is a simple process

You’ve probably already realised that having some goals is a good idea, so how do you actually go about setting them? Let’s go through the process step-by-step.

Step 1: Find somewhere quiet

Switch your phone to silent, turn off the television, and find a place you can work without distractions. Take a notepad and pen or your laptop to write down your goals. You might also want to have a calendar handy, so you can work out what needs to happen and when.

Step 2: Imagine what you want your life to look like in the long-term

Are you busy and active or do you want to settle down? Have you travelled to lots of different places? Do you work behind a desk or do you want to work with your hands? Do you have any personal goals that will take a long time to achieve, like climbing Mount Everest or running a successful company? Write down your long-term goals, whatever they are. 

Step 3: Work out what you need or want to do in the short- and medium-term

What do you need to achieve in the short- and medium-term in order to reach your long-term goals? Say you want to become an electrician; do you need to do any pre-apprenticeship courses, or should you build your resume before applying for apprenticeships?

Plus, think about any other goals you want to achieve that won’t take as long, like learning how to cook or topping the league with your sports team, and write them down too.

Step 4: Create a plan

Goals are all good, but without a plan you might find it hard to get there. A goal is your destination, while the plan is the directions.

Start by working out how long you think it’ll take to achieve your medium and long-term goals. If you have definite start and end dates (e.g. a course application deadline), write that down as well.

Then work out the little steps you’ll need to take along the way. You may need to enrol in a course or start training. Put due dates on these items and add them to your calendar and to-do lists. If you don’t already have a to-do list, try using an app like Google Keep to help you to set and stick to your goals.

Step 5: Tell someone else

Telling others about your goals, particularly if it’s someone you care about or whose opinion you value, is a great way to seek additional ideas and feedback. It’s also good to have someone who can check in and hold you accountable. Plus, it’s a proven fact that you’ll have a much better chance of success if you tell others about your goals.

Step 6: Check in frequently to stay on track

Put your list of goals somewhere you can see it all the time, like on the wall in your room, to remind yourself of where you’re headed.

Cross off any short- and medium-term goals as you achieve them, or revise your goals and change the steps if you need to. Remember, it’s OK to change your goals if they’re no longer working for you or you’ve had a change of heart. 

When goals go bad

We’ve just spent all this time talking about how great goals are, but unfortunately not all goals are helpful. Be careful of the following:

• Setting goals way too high, which means they’re destined for failure.

• Having too many goals, especially ones that conflict with each other. You can’t expect to travel the world and finish your degree in record time all at once.

• Setting vague goals that aren’t backed by a solid plan.

• Becoming obsessed with achieving your goals to the detriment of other parts of your life.

Balance is the key, so make sure your goals suit the lifestyle you want to lead, and you’ll avoid becoming stressed or anxious if things don’t go to plan.

Goal setting resources

If you’re ready to start setting some goals of your own but want a bit more help first, here are some resources you might like to check out:

• Healthdirect has some great goal-setting resources and links to others

• UNSW published this article on motivation and goals

• StickK is an app that helps you make accountable goals and stick to them

• GoalsOnTrack is serious software for serious goals, and can also help you break goals down into achievable milestones

• Balanced is an app that helps you set goals related to wellbeing and developing positive behaviours

Anthology Travel Writing Competition 2024

Established for writers who like to share authentic travel experiences and to provide a platform for publication. The Anthology Travel Writing Competition is open to original and previously unpublished travel articles in the English language by writers of any nationality, living anywhere in the world.

2024 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year Competition

The bioregion that encompasses Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and New Guinea possesses a unique natural heritage stretching back more than 80 million years, to the break-up of the great southern continent of Gondwana.

With 10 categories, including a new Aerial category, the competition encompasses a wide range of styles and subjects for photographers to be inspired by.

Courses for Swifties and Music Lovers

People often advise you to follow your passion. Whether you’re a dedicated Swiftie or just a huge music lover, you might be interested to know there are actually courses dedicated to Taylor and her work. Even if they’re not open for enrolments, you could be inspired to find similar courses that also spark your passion. Ready for it? Check these out:

Musical storytelling with Taylor Swift

The University of Florida are offering an (un)common 13-week honours course in Spring 2024 discussing Taylor Swift’s discography. You’ll need to focus on her evergreen style of songwriting and draw parallels with the work of other renowned female artists.

You’ll listen, reflect, discuss, and write about song themes. Annotate lyrics, participate in discussions, write 2 online discussions posts, then at the end of the semester, you’ll work with a partner to create a final project of their choosing.

Psychology of Taylor Swift

Arizona State University are also offering a Taylor Swift course. “The course is basically using Taylor Swift as a semester-long example of different phenomena — gossip, relationships, revenge,” according to the teacher of the semester long class Alexandra Wormley. You’ll take a deep dive into specific topics, connecting themes from Taylor’s songs (such as family, friends, and fame) to topics in social psychology.

Literature: Taylor’s Version

Ghent university in Belgium has also launched a Taylor Swift literature course. “Literature: Taylor’s Version was launched this year to emphasise themes used by famous historical literary writers and their styles and techniques through the perspective of US pop superstars. It’s offered by British professor Elly McCausland to Masters students.

Unverified or past courses to inspire you

These courses are mentioned in multiple articles online, but we haven’t been able to find all the details with the providers to verify them. However, if you’re keen to find out what’s possible or you’re committed to tracking down Taylor Swift courses, here’s some starting points for you.

Topics in Recorded Music Class

Last year New York University’s Clive Davis Institute began offering its first ever course on Taylor Swift. Taught by Rolling Stones writer Brittany Spanos, the class covers “Swift’s evolution as a creative music entrepreneur, the legacy of pop and country songwriters, discourses of youth and girlhood, and the politics of race in contemporary popular music.” We weren’t able to pin down details of the course and apparently there’s a long waitlist, but the Institute offers tonnes of other interesting music-centred courses too.

Stanford’s Literature course featuring Taylor

Reported earlier this year, Stanford University are offering a spring class called The Last Great American Songwriter: Storytelling with Taylor Swift Through the Eras. The course was developed by Ava Jeffs, a student at Stanford, as part of the school’s Student Initiated Course program.

“The whole goal of the class is to dive into the art of songwriting, exploring the interplay between literary references and lyricism and storytelling in Taylor Swift’s entire discography, taking it one album at a time and trying to look at the evolution of using songwriting as a narrative form,” Jeffs said. “It will draw parallels to classic works of literature and poetry in each album and gain a deeper understanding of the narrative power of music.”

Earlier in the year they offered a course titled “All Too Well (Ten Week Version)”, which was popular too.

Songwriting at Berklee

Berklee College of Music are also set to offer a songwriting course tracking Swift’s evolution, too. Titled Songs of Taylor Swift, you’d be analysing the Grammy-winning artist’s lyrical and compositional choices. We couldn’t find details on their website, but they do have some other really interesting sounding courses you might like to have a look at.

Artistry and Entrepreneurship

UC Berkeley are offering a course next spring titled Artistry & Entrepreneurship: Taylor’s Version. Creator Crystal Haryanto says “It will be a cross section of literature, economics, business and sociology and I think that we’re studying her impact as an artist, as a whole.” The course includes interactive lectures, readings, and listening assignments, and runs for 13 weeks.

Linking Swift songs with Western Literature

The University of Texas offered an undergraduate course in 2022: The Taylor Swift Songbook. Taught by Professor of English Elizabeth Scala, students studied Swift’s songs alongside the traditional canon of Western literature: Shakespeare, Keats, and Frost. They were asked to analyse and contextualise common practices and problems across the centuries.

Inspiring history and literary lovers

The University of Missouri claim to have offered the first ever Taylor course: Taylor Swiftory: History & Literature Through Taylor Swift. It was delivered by Dr. Thomas Kane and Jordan Pellerito as an Honors tutorial class. It was designed to explore a wide range of historical and literary topics using Taylor Swift’s music as a primary source to guide learning and class discussions.

10 Ways to Study that Aren't Boring

Exams are coming up. You have to cram to get everything in your head right? Wrong.

Sitting down at your desk and studying has probably never ranked top of anyone’s “favourite things to do” list…ever. But sometimes there’s just no avoiding the fact that you have to knuckle down and do the hard yards. Fortunately, there are ways that you can study and learn while having a bit of fun at the same time (or at least make the whole process a bit less more enjoyable). Here are our top 10 ways to study that aren’t boring.

Join homework clubs or study groups

A bit like going to the gym, some days you just don’t have the motivation to study. But joining a class and getting the motivation you need from others can be really helpful. You might also find it more fun and engaging than being alone at your desk.

Check out the Homework Club in the school library every Monday after school. 

Watch documentaries

Some people (like me) love nothing better than a great doco. If that’s the case for you, you could search for some documentaries related to your subjects and settle in for a good watch. And if watching a documentary isn’t generally your idea of fun, why not give it a try? It could:

• Grow your knowledge of real-world issues and topics.

• Help you to improve your interdisciplinary thinking by introducing you to subjects you might not usually think about.

• Improve your creativity, problem-solving, and social justice skills.

• Increase your general knowledge.

Sometimes even watching a fictional movie can be helpful. For example, if you’re studying English Literature and there’s a movie based on the book you’re reading, or if you’re studying history and there’s a movie about the event or era you’re studying, a movie could improve your understanding and bring the events to life for you.

One small caveat: watching any random TV show, documentary, or movie and telling yourself or your parents that it’s “study” won’t cut it – you’ll have to be selective and look for relevant, reliable, and informative content.

Deep dive online

In September 2020, teens were reported to spend an average of 14.4 hours each week online. So why not make some of that time productive? If you can overcome the temptation to go off-track, there are heaps of helpful tools, tips, and topics to dive into on the internet. You might like to watch video explainers, find practice test or exam questions, or even browse forums where other students have discussed your subject.

(Spending time scrolling through social media and chatting to your mates don’t count as productive, unfortunately.)

Do projects or presentations

Researching and putting together a project or presentation will do more than just help you learn about your topic. You’ll also be developing these key skills:

• Creativity

• Analytical and critical thinking

• Problem-solving

• Teamwork and collaboration (if it’s a group project)

• Communication

• Tech knowledge

• And plenty of other skills too!

If you find these kinds of activities motivating, why not incorporate them into your personal study time? You could write blogs, make videos, write a letter (e.g. to your local politician or council), create infographics, design a poster…the options are endless.

Competitions are also an easy way to put your knowledge to the test and challenge yourself (and you might even win some cool prizes too).

Go places

The classroom isn’t the only environment designed for learning. You could visit museums, libraries, galleries, theatres, or go along to educational and career talks. If you’re interested in politics, for example, you could take a tour of a Government or Parliament House. Or if law is more your scene, you could sit in the public gallery during a hearing. There’s no better way to learn than experiencing things first-hand.

Sign up for things that interest you

You could get a lot out of going along to workshops, joining a club, heading off on a camp, completing short courses and microcredentials, or participating in holiday programs. There are some that you might have to pay for, but others could be free.

Look on council websites, browse social media, search sites like Eventbrite or Humanitix, ask your teachers and parents, take a peek in the newspaper, or check the notice board at your local shopping centre to find events happening near you. (You might also like to check out our very own events calendar too.)

Make it a game

These days there are thousands of apps designed to “gamify” learning. And with plenty of free options out there, you have nothing to lose by giving some a try and seeing if they give your studies a bit of a boost.

If you want a bit of a break from technology, you could also get your hands on some good old-fashioned board games or a deck of cards. Depending on your choices, games could help to:

• Improve your memory.

• Boost your cognitive skills.

• Increase your processing speed.

• Develop your logic and reasoning.

• Improve your critical thinking.

• Increase your spatial reasoning.

• Advance your verbal and communication skills.

• Extend your attention and concentration span.

• Teach you problem-solving skills.

• Grow your confidence.

• Enhance your decision-making.

Time spent on games can be a fun way of winding down, spending time with family and friends, as well as having the nice perk of developing some of the skills listed above.

Work smarter

Sitting down to study for hours after a long day at school is not appealing to many people. So why not work smarter and spread out your study sessions? You could use time spent travelling in the car or on the bus, free periods at school (if you can resist the urge to chat to your mates), or while you’re waiting for an appointment to hit the books and do a little revision.

Instead of spending big chunks of time studying, you’ll have more free time to chill out, play sport, catch up with friends and family, and just do more of what you enjoy.

Teach others

If you have solid knowledge in a subject or two, you could earn some pocket money and revise everything you’ve been learning by tutoring other students who need a little help.

Teaching other people is a great way to determine how much you know, and see where there might be gaps in your knowledge. Even if you don’t want to commit to formal tutoring, why not ask a parent, sibling, or even a friend to sit down and let you “teach” them something?

Gain skills

If you have a test coming up, your time is probably best spent revising for it – but if you have a little time to spare (even just 10 minutes per day), why not start learning a new skill?

You could learn to touch type – this will be helpful for school and life in general. Or you could study up on the basics of coding, start learning a new language, teach yourself to cook…your options are nearly endless!

The changing world of work

The world of work is always changing. Not that long ago, you could have expected to walk away from school into a job in a factory or office and stay there for 45 years. These days, “job-hopping” is much more common – it’s predicted that Gen Z workers can expect have up to 16 jobs across their lifetime. And many jobs that existed even just 30 or 40 years ago are no longer necessary thanks to new technology.

In fact, technology is now moving at such a pace that we can expect work to look different again in just 5 years – but we can predict (to some extent) what will happen. So why is it important to think about how the world of work is changing, and how might it affect your future career path?

How is the world of work changing?

Since the 1970s, changes in government policy and organisational structures have kept the unemployment rate in Australia at around 7% on average. This means employers have more power over employees who may struggle to find work if they lose their jobs, and is part of the reason why people are willing to accept less secure work with fewer benefits, like gig work.

Advances in technology also mean that lots of the menial, repetitive tasks which used to be done by people are now handled by ever-more intelligent computers. Take the touch-screen ordering system at many fast food restaurants, or the self-serve checkouts at the supermarket – not so long ago these places provided many low-skill, entry-level jobs which are now being done by technology.

It’s not just low-skill jobs that are being affected. Law firms no longer need teams of junior lawyers and legal secretaries to comb hardcopy legal documents; they have automated databases which can be searched by keyword. Librarians are being replaced by online search systems, and pharmacy assistants are being replaced by robotic dispensing machines.

You’ll need your human skills

So if robots are taking over so many jobs, what’s left for us? Well, there are lots of things that robots simply can’t replicate (or at least not to a satisfactory standard) – these are jobs that require our human skills.

Human skills are skills that cannot be replaced by technology. Creativity, intuition, and innovation are human-specific, as are caring skills that help people feel comfortable. Mediators, teachers, nurses, and salespeople are just some examples of human-centric jobs that will always be needed in our workforce.

If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the future of work and the skills you’ll need, check out this video.

It’s not all doom and gloom

Sure, reading about this stuff can get a bit depressing, but it’s actually not a bad thing. As robots take over some of our dullest jobs, that frees us up to work in more satisfying roles. People in jobs that have been taken over by technology, such as factory line workers, are being supported to up-skill and find new work in other areas that give them more variety and challenges.

The other thing to remember is that most of us pivot at one point or another anyway. For example, apprentices become employees who might go on to start their own business, or manage a team of tradespeople – which requires vastly different skills to those they learnt as an apprentice. And people change jobs all the time; sometimes because we have to, but often because we get bored and want to find a new challenge.

If you’re interested in learning more about how often we change jobs, check out the FYA New Work Order Series for more details.

You don’t want to be a robot

It’s easy for technology to replace the jobs with lots of repetitive, predictable tasks, which is why factories thankfully no longer employ armies of small children and now look like something from a science-fiction movie instead. Working ‘like a machine’ isn’t a good thing – it’s boring, tiring, and never gets any better, so if there’s a robot that can do your job, it means you are free to move on to something else.

The loss of some jobs is being replaced by increased demand for human jobs at all skill levels – the huge outcry for more health and aged care workers is just one example. You can’t automate caring for other people or mediating conflict; these things require humanity, and jobs that require these skills are often highly rewarding too.

How does this apply to my future?

Not all of us will be negatively affected by the changes to the world of work. In fact, if you’re aware of what’s happening, you could use these changes to design a future that works for you – one where you don’t work like a robot doing the same thing every day.

The place to start is with the possible futures you can identify for yourself. Take each one, then analyse it through the lens of “will robots take my job?” You don’t need to guess – there is literally a website when you can ask this.

The safer your chosen job is, the less likely you’ll find yourself needing to pivot into something else down the track. If your chosen job is at high risk of automation, ask yourself what appeals to you about the job, and see if you can find other roles in similar areas that are less likely to be impacted.

Conservation Volunteers Australia

People like you who care enough to make a difference - join us on exciting projects which span everything

from ocean litter to bushfire resilience, and citizen science to climate change.

We exist to strengthen the health of communities and ecosystems for mutual benefit, across Australia.

Through our work, we’re building a more harmonious and helpful relationship between people and nature.

People tell us that they want to play their part to re-balance nature, but they don’t know where to start. So,

for almost 40 years we’ve been working to give people that opportunity through hands on

volunteering. Now, we’re growing our work to empower anyone across Australia to take action for nature

through practical activities.

https://conservationvolunteers.com.au

NSW Police Application Process

Once you have successfully completed the University Certificate in Workforce Essentials (UCWE) you may

be eligible to submit an application to the NSW Police Force.  Once received, your police application will be

allocated to a Recruitment case officer who will get to work processing your application.

1. Background Checks

Upon receipt of your police application your recruitment case officer will conduct a number of background

checks including detailed background vetting, employment checks and a more thorough investigation of

your history.

2. Physical & Medical Assessment

As a police recruit applicant you will be required to undertake a number of physical tests to determine your

ability to perform the physical demands inherent to operational policing. You will also be invited to attend a

full medical assessment including a complete medical history. The assessment will be conducted by an

external provider and will assess your medical fitness to perform the inherent role and functions of an

operational police officer.

3. Interview

The final stage of the recruitment process is a formal face to face interview. The interview will be conducted

by a three (3) member panel and will provide an opportunity for the NSW Police Force to assess you

against a number of core qualities. The interviews will be conducted at a number of metropolitan and

regional locations.

4. Ranking & the Eligibility Pool

Successfully completing all requirements of the recruitment process will see you progress onto the eligibility

list to await an offer for placement into the Associate Degree in Policing Practice.

https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment/application_process

Ethos Sports & Education

1) We are hosting a free webinar to share vital and the most current info regarding the recruiting process next month:

When: Sep 4, 2024 06:00 PM Sydney/Brisbane

Topic: Ethos Sports & Education | Learning About Sports Scholarships | All Sports

Register in advance for this webinar:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3cjHDrZpQiOQUcS81GLTvQ

This webinar provides potential recruits with great information on how to manage the process, even if they are interested in doing the process on their own and will discuss many aspects of this journey and all of the various pathways that can be taken after graduation, including university, pro pathways, and careers in the sport industry and much more.

--

Christopher Campasano

Managing Director | 

Phone: +1 (480) 266 2143

Email:  chris@ethosrecruiting.com

International Experience Canada

Are you looking for adventure? Seeking to broaden your horizons and challenge yourself outside the classroom? Interested in gaining international work experience and learn North American best practices? Canada is a fantastic first stepping stone into the real world and a gateway to global opportunities. It is safe, friendly and welcoming.

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a Government of Canada program that allows youth aged 18-35* from IEC’s over 30 partner countries/territories to work and travel in Canada for up to two years*. Whether it is to go on a gap year, working holiday, complete a co-op/ internship abroad, or gain international work experience after graduation, IEC can help make these experiences happen. 

A job offer isn’t required under the working holiday category and participants can work for any employer in Canada.

Benefits of a Gap Year: 98% of students who completed a gap year said it helped them develop as a person. 96% also said that it increased their maturity and self-confidence. 77% said that it helped them find their purpose in life. 90% of students who took a gap year returned to university within a year and 75% said it helped or will help them get a job1.

Recognized Organizations (RO): RO's are Canada-based organisations that help youth work and travel internationally through IEC. They can be non-profit, for profit or educational. Most charge a fee for their services, which may include finding a job, planning your travel or accommodations and helping in an emergency. The use of ROs is optional.

Job Bank: To find out what jobs are available, a good starting point is the Job Bank, which is run by the Government of Canada. Applicants can search thousands of jobs from employers all across Canada in various sectors and disciplines.

Ski Field Jobs: Perhaps students would like to trade their books for a pair of skis or snowboard next winter. ‘On snow’ work opportunities await at hundreds of Canadian ski areas. Jobs can be in a number of sectors, including hospitality, administration, retail and snow professions.

Tourism Jobs: Check the website for an interactive career map with exciting career opportunities in hospitality and tourism.

Testimonials:
“Moving to Canada was probably the biggest catalyst for personal growth that I’ve had in my adult life. I stopped looking outwards for advice and instead started using my own head, which is such a valuable tool that I would never have learnt had I not moved overseas and away from my support network.” – Virginia A.

“Working in Montreal was great for my career. The visual effects industry in Montreal was well established when I arrived; however, over the year I was there, it boomed and gave me a lot of experience that I would not have been able to get in Australia.” – Jonathon S.

Contact the Consulate General of Canada in Sydney, Australia at whpcanada.sydney@international.gc.ca:

• Queries on International Experience Canada

• Brochures (electronic or hard copy)

• Moose keyrings or other giveaways for students and Career Advisers

* Eligibility criteria and duration of work permit and differs based on country of citizenship.

Are you ready to realise your potential?
The Royal Military College - Duntroon (RMC) teaches how to be a leader and reach your full potential as you become an Army Officer.

Army Officers are leaders and can be in command of their own platoon of soldiers. Training at RMC gives you transferrable skills and helps you reach your full leadership potential with a guaranteed leadership role on graduation.

World-class leadership training plus a fast-track to an exciting and adventurous career is just the start.

Is it right for me?

If you have ever helped a friend in trying times… If you’ve ever learnt from past experiences… you could be a leader.

World-class Army Officer training at RMC will equip you with everything else you need to turn you into a leader and a mentor.

EXPLORE NOW>>>

Where future leaders are found

RMC is one of the world’s finest and most respected military training institutions. It builds on your ambition and drive to make you into a leader.
Just 18 months of training at RMC will give you transferrable skills and help you reach your full leadership potential. 

Life at RMC

RMC is much more than just a world-class military institution – it’s a dynamic community. You’ll live in comfortable housing, and learn in modern facilities. Plus, you’ll enjoy an outstanding social and sporting life.

Accepting applications in May for opportunities to commence in January 2025.

Connect with an expert to chat about becoming an Army Officer by calling 13 19 01 or find a local ADF Careers Centre.

Whitehouse Institute of Design - 2025 Early Entry Applications Open For students interested in pursuing a career in Fashion Design, Interior Design or Creative Direction and Styling, 2025 Early Entry applications are now open. To apply, follow the link provided below, or contact a Future Student Adviser at study@whitehouse-design.edu.au or Visit: https://whitehouse-design.edu.au/applynow/.

Sydney Design School Information Session 15 May, 1pm Creative students can study interior design without an ATAR. Sydney Design School is hosting an Information Session on Wednesday 15 May at 1pm. Join them at 65 Berry St, North Sydney. Register to attend in person or online via Zoom at: https://sydneydesignschool.com.au/information-sessions/ The next intake for their ASQA accredited Diploma courses is July 2024 or January 2025. RTO91446.

Australian Federal Police PSO Online Information Session – Wednesday 8 May Interested in a career as a Protective Service Officer (PSO)? Questions will be answered in this online information session where PSOs will speak about their lived experiences on the job and learn about the application process. Register now to attend this free virtual information session: https://www.afp.gov.au/jobs/roles/protective-service-officer#tab-1105.

Seafood Industry Australia (SIA) and Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) have just announced the launch of seafoodcareers.com.au, a training and recruitment website for the seafood industry! 

This platform is a central information hub that aims to connect people with rewarding employment opportunities, career pathways and training opportunities within the seafood industry. Created by employees for employees, seafoodcareers.com.au aims to connect individuals with rewarding roles that contribute to sustainable, long-term food security.  

 Explore diverse roles and training options in the seafood industry! From fishing to retail, ocean to plate, there's something for everyone.

Making it in Media 2024

Students interested in a career in Communication, their parents, and teachers are invited to attend our free interactive Making it in Media workshop. Students will get a first-hand experience working on a simulated media event, in our TV Studio, radio station and creative hub. Students will partake in the workshop alongside other schools in our newly upgraded $4.6 million facility.

More information to come, in the meantime, save the dates:
- 15 November 2024 for Year 9 and 10 students

Get in touch

Baker's Delight Virtual Work Experience.

The Bakers Delight Virtual Work Experience offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of professional baking from the comfort of your home.

Discover the art of baking with the Year13 X Bakers Delight Virtual Work Experience - an interactive exploration into the craft of baking, offering insight into a baker's daily life. Virtual Bakery Tour You’ll start with a 360-degree tour of a Bakers Delight bakery to familiarise yourself with the daily workspace and tools of the baking trade. Quality Control Challenge Learn the importance of consistency and quality in baking and test your decision-making skills with real-life scenarios. Get Hands-On in the Kitchen Roll up your sleeves to bake your own sourdough or delicious scroll at home! Follow the step-by-step guide and experience the joy of creating something delicious.

A baking apprenticeship with Bakers Delight can lead to owning your own bakery!

When you finish the experience, you'll understand the amazing career opportunities on offer, whether a Bakers Delight roll could be right for you (pun intended), and you’ll also receive a certificate to add to your career portfolio. Visit the Year 13 X Bakers Delight VWE page to get started!

2 Soft Skills Everyone Needs - Adaptability and Flexibility

In Year 10 Careers we explore the concept of Soft Skills. These are transferable skills which you can develop in a range of ways and take with you from sports, to work, to community volunteering. Employers and even Universities are looking at soft skills as a priority. One employer even recently stated "I can train anyone to have the skills I need, but I hire for employability (soft) skills."

Flexibility and adaptability are traits that could help you to be successful at school, work, and in life. School teaches you lots of different knowledge, and obviously that’s really important. But working on developing your soft skills is equally important. It could really pay off in applications and interviews if you can demonstrate that you’ve got those skills (and provide examples to back up your claims).

What does it mean to be adaptable and flexible?

We’ve put these two skills together as they’re quite similar, but it’s useful to be able to distinguish between the two.

Adaptability is a willingness to confront or change your own ideas and preconceptions. Flexibility is more a willingness to “meet others halfway” procedurally.

Forbes

Being adaptable could help you to react positively to changes in your environment, whilst causing the minimum amount of disruption to you.

Whereas flexibility is your ability to quickly adjust to changes in your life and plans without it creating a lot of stress and drama (at least to the outside world).

For example, maybe you decide to study online to save money and enable you to work while you study. That’s being flexible, meeting the same end goal but going about achieving it a different way better suited to the situation.

How flexibility and adaptability could benefit you

Developing these skills could help you:

• Be happier in life by taking change in your stride.

• Feel more satisfied in your education and career.

• Be more successful by not letting obstacles stop you.

• Stay positive and on top of things, even when situations don’t go your way.

• Approach life with a “can do” attitude, achieve more and make the most of opportunities.

• Confront challenges confidently.

• Become a better leader and team player.

• Increase your value to employers.

• Exercise emotional intelligence and boost your confidence.

Ways you can become more flexible and adaptable

Wondering how you can put some work in to developing these skills further? Well, you could:

• Say yes to more opportunities.

• Step outside your comfort zone.

• Keep an open mind and encourage others around you to do the same.

• Take every opportunity to learn.

• Set goals and stick to them – milestones may move or change, and that’s OK.

• Ask for feedback and really take it on board.

• Don’t give up – problem solve, get creative, make a Plan B.

• Focus on keeping a positive attitude.

• Challenge yourself.

Add these soft skills your resume

Since soft skills are important and highly sought after, it’s important to put them on your resume. It’ll show educators and potential employers that you’ll fit in, try your best, and accomplish the work necessary to achieve your objectives.

You could simply state that you’re flexible and adaptable, or use phrases like:

• Comfortably adjusts to change.

• Stays positive and productive even when faced with challenges or problems.

• Thinks creatively.

• Develops new and innovative solutions.

• Learns quickly and happy to try new methods of working.

• Flexible approach to work.

• Able to prioritise workloads and adapt to changing timelines.

Tip: When you put something on your resume, make sure that it’s relevant to the position that you’re applying for, and most importantly, you can provide examples when you’re asked in an interview.

Learn about other soft skills

There are lots of other soft skills that you should consider working on too. They’ll supersize your resume, make you stand out to potential employers, and could benefit you in lots of other ways.

Have you hear of Lifelong Learning?

If you haven’t heard of lifelong learning by now, then you may have been living under a rock.

The thing is that we know the world of work is changing – on average, people are changing jobs every three years, which is a huge shift from 10 or 20 years ago. People work in the gig economy, they work flexible shifts, and they work for multiple employers.

All this means that in order to keep up and remain employable, we’ll need to keep our skills and knowledge current. And we do this through lifelong learning

Will I be expected to learn all the time?

No. But you may need to increase or refresh your skills and knowledge from time to time.

Sometimes this can be as simple as taking a short course to learn how to use a new piece of equipment, or going on a weekend intensive to learn a new skill.

Lifelong learning is more about changing how you think about learning – rather than expecting to move away from education as soon as school is over, young people will need to be prepared to keep learning throughout their lives.

What does lifelong learning look like?

You’re definitely not expected to go back to school, or even to spend half your life at university. Lifelong learning means that you’ll deliberately pick up new information and skills all the time, through ongoing learning that can be both formal and informal.

You could learn something directly related to your career, or you could expand your skillset and learn something totally unrelated. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

• Learn a language on your phone with Duolingo.

• Read articles on Medium.

• Listen to podcasts from the ABC.

• Find local networking opportunities on Eventbrite.

• Take a short online course via edX.

• Take a vocational course to learn to run your own business.

• Start a degree and learn over months or years.

Lifelong learning is about changing your mindset

One of the things that school is supposed to teach you is how to learn. Sometimes this can get a bit lost in standardised testing, but it’s really important that you leave school with the skills you need to identify when you need to learn something new, and the drive to go out and learn it.

Don’t connect lifelong, post-school learning with the experience you’re going through right now – they’re not the same thing. Lifelong learning gives you power over your future, the chance to change the types of jobs you are able to access, and you control what you learn and how you learn it.

This gives you a lot more flexibility than you get while you’re at school.

If you prefer to learn online at your own pace, then that’s totally OK. If you’re someone who reads voraciously, then you may want to pick up new knowledge that way. Short courses are usually heaps of fun, and adult education specialists know how to link your learning with your career, which makes the experience all the more meaningful.

All you need to do right now is open your mind to the idea of learning throughout your life, and you’ll be on the right track.

Find out more

We have heaps of resources on learning, skills, and courses on our website here.

Careers in Maths

See how different people in a wide range of careers use maths as part of their daily routine at work. The

site increases Australia’s mathematically capable workforce through hundreds profiles, videos, jobs.

Delivering maths careers materials to students and is committed to working towards increasing Australia’s

mathematically capable workforce through hundreds of profiles, videos and jobs.

https://careers.amsi.org.au

Quiz - Which health science course is for you?

Considering a health science course? Imagine a career where you’re helping people to have a happier and

healthier life. This is what health science careers are all about and there are a lot to choose from! Use our

quiz to work out which health science course is best based on your interests.

https://careerswithstem.com.au/quiz-which-health-science-course-is-for-you/

5 Questions to Ask While You’re on Work Experience

Work experience is invaluable to help you gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, explore potential career paths, and develop essential skills for your future. By actively engaging in the experience and asking questions, you can make sure you’re getting the most out of your placement. Here are five key questions you should be asking while you’re on work experience.

What are the primary responsibilities and daily tasks in this role?

Understanding the day-to-day activities and expectations of a job can provide you with a clearer picture of what a career in that field entails, helping you make informed decisions about your future.

How do the skills and knowledge I’m gaining (or will gain) in my studies apply to this job?

Connecting the knowledge acquired in the classroom to real-world work situations is crucial for understanding how your education translates to the workplace. This can also help identify any gaps in your knowledge or skills that you can address.

What are the most challenging aspects of this job, and how do you overcome them?

Learning about the challenges professionals face in their roles and the strategies they employ to address them can help you develop resilience, adaptability, and problem solving skills that are essential for success in any career.

How do you see this industry evolving over the next few years, and what can I do to stay competitive?

Gaining insights into industry trends and potential changes can better prepare you for the future job market, ensuring you remain competitive and up-to-date with relevant skills and knowledge.

Can you recommend any resources, professional associations, or networking opportunities that could help me?

Expanding your professional network and staying informed about industry news and opportunities can be a big help as you progress in your career. By seeking advice from experienced professionals, you can identify valuable resources to help support your growth and development in your chosen field.

If you’re interested in learning more about work experience, you can read more blogs and search for opportunities on our website here.

7 ways volunteering could benefit you

Volunteering your precious free time to help worthy causes is a really noble undertaking. You won’t earn big bucks, but there are plenty of other ways that becoming a volunteer could be of value.

Learn new skills

No matter where you decide to volunteer, there will always be an element of training. While the skills may seem basic or trivial, they could be essential building blocks for future careers.

For example, if you’re collecting, organising, accounting for, and distributing donations from school fundraisers, you might be learning more than you think about finances, budgeting and inventory. Skills useful in almost all jobs including management, accounting, or running your own business.

Then there’s the other skills that you might not even realise you’re working on, like communication, team work, independence, problem solving, and customer service – the list goes on.

Give your resume a boost

If you have lots of part time or summer work experience on your resume that’s fantastic.

Got computer skills? Excellent.

But adding a few more lines will never hurt. Showing commitment to community efforts, or any kind of voluntary work, will speak volumes about your personality. If you’re happy to keep showing up without getting paid, you must be dedicated and motivated; all qualities that universities and future employers will look favourably on.

Make you stand out in admissions

Whether you’re applying to uni, TAFE, or looking for work, chances are you’ll be up against a lot of other applicants. Some might have a higher ATAR than you, some may have relevant work experience.

How will you stand out? Well, what you choose to do outside of the classroom could make all the difference.

Volunteering is a great way to show you care about others and that you can manage your time well enough to balance a volunteer job with your other commitments.

Form connections and networking contacts

Volunteering could introduce you to people you wouldn’t have met otherwise.

Those people could become friends, mentors, or your inspiration. The more you get involved with projects outside your school, the wider you’re casting your net.

You’ll end up with more contacts that could be helpful in providing you with paid holiday jobs, work experience, references, and even full blown job offers.

If you already know what you want to study at uni, try finding volunteer opportunities in those areas. For example, if you’re interested in politics, see if you can volunteer with your local politician. There’s every chance your volunteer experience could help you in your future endeavours.

NSW Police Force – Recruiting Eligibility Quiz and Certificates You Need

Take the quiz to see if you may be eligible to commence an application to the NSW Police Force.

‘Aquatic Rescue Sequence’ certification:

Applicants are required to provide certification of successful completion of the Aquatic Rescue Sequence.

First Aid certification:

Applicants are required to supply certification of completion of an approved ‘Apply First Aid’ course with at least 12

months currency remaining on certification.

Typing certificate:

Applicants are required to supply a recognized certificate of typing proficiency equivalent or greater than 25 words

per minute at 98 percent accuracy.

https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment/application_process/eligibility_quiz

Nine podcasts with all the study tips and advice you could ever need

Looking for study tips and love listening to podcasts? You might want to check out these gurus with all the insights:

1. Study with Jess – A youtube based podcast dedicated to helping students study smarter, not harder

2. CDU Study Skills – The ‘I wish I’d known that” podcast with tips from uni students

3. The Exam Study Expert – Tips for working smarter, not harder from a psychologist

4. The Study Sessions – A podcast that offers advice and support for students looking to improve their study habits

5. The Skills Pod – All about maths and study skills from the Uni of Chester’s Academic Skills team

6. Chloe Made Me Study – Perfect for non-traditional students who are mature age, studying online, or just don’t fit into the normal ‘student’ box

7. The College Info Geek Podcast – A podcast that provides practical advice for students on a variety of topics, including studying, test-taking, and productivity

8. The Productivity Show – Tips on productivity, time management, and efficiency in all areas of your life

9. UnstoppableTeen Podcast – With study skills, employability tips, and more

How can you get started in the Construction Sector?

One of the biggest pain points for students is figuring out how to plot their journey from graduation to their first day in their dream job.

Source:  Shipley, B & Walker, I, (2020). ‘After the ATAR III: The Role of Passion and Purpose in Connecting Youth to Meaningful Education and Employment’, Year13, Australia.

Do you know a student who is unsure about their next step?

The good news is that Queensland’s construction industry is looking for skilled workers like tradespeople, designers, engineers and managers to contribute to our social and economic development over the coming decade  

The renewables sector in particular represents an immense opportunity for the construction sector to spearhead Queensland’s 2030 net-zero carbon ambitions, as well as being an instrumental part of other nations’ decarbonisation plans through green hydrogen exports. The estimated number of construction jobs that will be created by Queensland’s renewables build-out will range from 14,500 to 26,700 on average between 2021 and 2050. (source: CSIRO (2022) for CSQ).

With this increased demand, state and federal governments have shown a renewed interest in tertiary STEM qualifications, as well as continuing to subsidise and promote VET courses and apprenticeships.

That’s why we have collaborated with Construction Skills Queensland to develop The New-Print of Construction, a short course that breaks down the ins and outs of the construction industry in a relatable, easy to understand format. In the course, we go through the key skills and qualifications required for some of the most in-demand jobs in the sector, school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, VET certifications, undergraduate degrees and more.

You can take a look at The New Print of Construction here or visit Construction Skills Queensland for more resources to get into the industry.

7 awesome career paths in robotics and AI

Face the future, don’t fear it!

If you’re looking for a career path that’s future-proof, you’ve found it. Robotics and AI are the new world work order and the need for people with skills in these areas is steadily growing.

Below are seven STEM pros working in robotics and AI, flexing their smarts and doing incredible, innovative things in areas like machine learning, language, space, wildlife conservation and healthcare.

Need a refresher on AI first? Start here…

https://careerswithstem.com.au/7-awesome-career-paths-in-robotics-and-ai

UNIVERSITY PATHWAYS

WANT TO GET INTO UNIVERSITY?
AFL SPORTSREADY CAN HELP YOU GET THERE

AFL SportsReady trainees and SportsReady Education students (RTO ID 22394) can benefit from our partnerships with Universities across Australia.

• Students who successfully complete a Certificate III qualification with AFL SportsReady will be eligible for guaranteed direct entry into over 30 Bachelor degrees at Torrens University. Graduates must also have attained a Year 12 certificate.

• Students who successfully complete a Certificate IV qualification with AFL SportsReady will be eligible for guaranteed direct entry into a large range of Bachelor degrees across a number of our university partners.

• Students who successfully complete a Diploma with AFL SportsReady will be eligible for guaranteed direct entry into a large range of Bachelor degrees across a number of our university partners plus they will also be eligible for up to 1-year credits into a range of Business degrees.

Below you will find an overview of AFL SportsReady’s University partnerships pathways.

Traineeships Open Doors

Maxwell Kooreman’s achievement as Queensland’s 2023 First Nations Trainee of the Year is a reminder of his incredible talent and hard work. The award highlights the value of traineeships as a pathway for young people to gain practical skills and confidence while working towards qualifications that can open doors to new opportunities.
Maxwell’s success serves as an inspiration to other young people considering traineeships as a career option.

Proud Biripi Man, Maxwell was a team member at Kmart (Aspley), where he completed a two-year traineeship while studying for his Certificate II in Business. During his traineeship, Maxwell learned a range of tasks, from online orders and cashiering to stocktaking and customer service. Reflecting on his time at Kmart, Maxwell noted that the experience gave him invaluable life skills that he has been able to take into his current career.
Winning the QLD First Nations Trainee of the Year award was a pleasant surprise, and Maxwell is proud of his achievement.

He acknowledged the support of his mentor, as well as his Field Officer, James Nelis, and other Kmart staff members who helped him during his traineeship.

Maxwell credits his traineeship with helping him grow and gain confidence.

His success has led him to take on another traineeship in information technology with Brisbane Catholic Education, where he is studying a Cert III in Information Technology. He has requested to study for another certificate after completing his Cert III to further his education.

When asked if he would recommend traineeships to other young people, Maxwell said,

“I would recommend it to any young person, even if they are undecided about their career path.”

He has found that his traineeship has opened many doors and created opportunities that he wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Woolworths Behind the Scenes Plant Room Tour to Celebrate World Refrigeration Day
On 26 June, Woolworths will be opening the plantroom doors to showcase the latest technology in sustainable commercial refrigeration. This is an opportunity for students curious about a career in refrigeration and the Woolworths apprenticeship program. Register here: https://forms.gle/UPDBGELsiUjZ1U5K9

The times that we are living in are characterised by their challenges and their opportunities. The challenges, of course, are the many factors we’re already aware of - population growth, public health management, resource efficiency and climate change.

However, these challenges bring with them the opportunity to develop solutions that can change the face of the earth. In fact, some of the most revolutionary inventions, such as nitrogen fertilizers, the Apollo program, and more recently, mRNA vaccines, have been created during times of great need.

In a way, this means that the next generation of graduates are uniquely poised to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow - and one of the most applicable areas of study is in engineering. Engineering is an incredibly broad discipline, covering areas such as agriculture, entertainment, aerospace travel and public infrastructure. In each of these fields they play an integral role in refining and improving processes to deliver better outcomes for our society.

The engineering sector is also in great demand. The science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) sector overall has grown by 85% since the 2000s, and is expected to grow by another 12.9% within the next five years. This has led to excellent employment and salary outcomes for new engineering graduates.

So what does this all mean as a student? Now more than ever, the world is in need of people with the vision, the ambition and the skills to tackle our biggest challenges. The students of today have a unique opportunity to be the answer to Australia’s big questions, and find themselves in an incredibly rewarding career.

That is why we have developed Engineering Your Future, an e-learning platform designed in collaboration with Engineers Australia. It covers areas such as prominent Australian engineering projects, pathways to careers in engineering and more in an accessible, interactive format.

You can access the e-learning platform for free here.

SCHOLARSHIPS

We are asked at the College many recurring questions. One of the most common questions is about Scholarships. We will try to provide you access to the information and scholarships you need as it becomes available. Below are some factors to consider in your Scholarship search. Also go to the Scholarships tab on this site for more information on scholarships.

7 Things to Consider When Searching for Scholarships

Navigating the world of scholarships can sometimes seem like a daunting task. With so many opportunities available, it’s crucial for you to identify scholarships that are not only financially beneficial, but also align with your goals and circumstances. We’ve come up with some things to consider when searching for scholarships to help you make an informed decision.

Eligibility criteria

This one seems obvious, but it’s important! Always ensure you meet the specific eligibility requirements of a scholarship before applying, or you might be setting yourself up for disappointment.

Application deadlines

It’s essential to be aware of the application deadlines for any scholarships you want to apply for. Most scholarships have strict closing dates and won’t accept late submissions, so make good notes of any deadlines to ensure you don’t miss out.

Award amount and duration

Consider the scholarship’s award amount and duration to determine if it will provide sufficient financial support throughout your studies.

Renewability

Some scholarships are renewable, meaning they can be awarded for multiple years if you maintain certain criteria (e.g. meeting a minimum GPA). Consider if a renewable scholarship is more beneficial to you than a one-off award.

Application requirements

Each scholarship will have unique application requirements, including essays, letters of recommendation, or interviews. Evaluate the effort needed for the application process and ensure you can provide all necessary materials within the deadline.

Scholarship restrictions

Some scholarships come with specific restrictions or conditions, such as requiring you to study a particular course, attend certain promotional events, or write letters of thanks to donors. Make sure you’re comfortable with any conditions before applying.

Impact on other financial support

Receiving a scholarship may impact your eligibility for other financial support, such as government payments and grants. If you’re unsure, reach out to the institution you’re applying to and ask if a scholarship might affect your other financial support options.

If you want to find out more about scholarships and search for opportunities, take a look at our scholarships database here.

Business Traineeship Spotlight

With over 2.5 million businesses currently operating in Australia, there are always ample opportunities for a career in this growing industry. If you’d like a career that can take you nearly anywhere and offers lots of opportunity for advancement, you might like to consider working in business. And one of the best ways to get started is by completing a business traineeship.

What is a career in business?

Business is a huge industry that encompasses a wide variety of different jobs and roles. You might find yourself organising teams and hiring workers, doing up budgets and financial statements, answering phones and emails, selling products and services, and so much more. Common roles include administration, sales, finance, and management. With enough experience and a great idea, you might even like to start your own business one day.

What skills do I need for a career in business?

You’ll be working a lot with other people, so great communication skills are a must. Being organised and having strong time management skills are highly valued. A lot of your work will probably be done on computers, so having tech skills is generally also desired.

Why should I consider a business traineeship?

A business traineeship is a great way to get your foot in the door with a company and start building valuable skills. There are often lots of opportunities to continue working after your traineeship is complete, and even advance your career down the track.

Traineeships are a great way to gain both practical on-the-job skills and theoretical knowledge at the same time. They combine VET study alongside paid work experience in a real business, so you get the best of both worlds.

A business traineeship will see you doing real work for an employer while completing study with a TAFE or RTO. A business traineeship usually takes around 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether you work and study full- or part-time.

There are tons of benefits to a traineeship, rather than just work or study alone, including:

• Getting paid while you learn – unlike uni, you can work and study without having to take on an insane work load.

• The opportunity to get hands-on experience, not just endless reading.

• The potential to connect with an employer and continue working with them after your traineeship is finished.

• Your qualification will be nationally recognised, meaning you can go anywhere with it.

Where can I find traineeship opportunities?

Just like searching for a job, there are lots of places you can go to find a traineeship. You can start your search on sites like SEEK and Indeed. Take a look on social media like Facebook or LinkedIn to see if any local businesses are hiring. Sign up with an Apprenticeship Network Provider or Group Training Organisation, or even go old fashioned and take a look in the local paper or give local businesses a call.

Here are some examples of the kinds of opportunities available:

• Business Traineeship, Fortitude Valley QLD

• Business Administration Traineeship, Newcastle NSW

• Financial Support Specialist, VIC

• Business Administration Traineeship, Perth WA