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| 15 May 2023 | |
| Written by Tianna Kelly | |
| Careers |
What’s On in the Next Few Weeks
NDIA | Pathways to Post School Life: NSW and ACT
May 16 to May 24, 2023
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) would like to invite NSW and ACT students with a disability in Years 9 -12, their parents, carers and education professionals, to attend a virtual information session.
This is a session about building skills and paving a pathway to post school life. We will discuss a range of NDIS-funded supports and other assistance to help young people build skills to prepare for their transition, and support them in achieving employment and other goals, post-school.
Session times:
iCanMed | Why Most Top UCAT Scorers Start Prep at Least 12–24 Months Before the Exam
May 16, 2023
We’ve all heard it before; the early bird catches the worm. So how early is early? Also, what are we meant to do with the time we have available? Based on our ongoing conversations with top UCAT scorers, starting early and doing the right thing provides far more upside than you may have realised.
In this webinar, Ray, iCanMed’s education advisor, will share with you the following topics to help you start early and reap the rewards!
WSU | Discover Western – Exploring Western, Early Offer Programs, Pathways & More
May 16, 2023
Hear from Western staff and current students about our HSC True Reward Early Offer program, alternate pathways, Adjustment Factors, Schools Recommendation Scheme and other entry programs.
Find out more
UOW | Southern Sydney Parents & Students Info Evening
May 16, 2023
Find out about our courses, Early Admission, ATAR and selection rank, important dates, scholarships, accommodation, upcoming events, student life and more at one of our Year 12 information evenings.
You will also have the opportunity to get your questions answered by course experts and our current students who are studying right now!
Find out more
AIM | Sydney Info Evening
May 16, 2023
Your career in music starts at AIM. Join us on campus for our Sydney Info Evening to explore your potential with one of Australia’s leading music schools.
This is your opportunity to go behind the scenes at AIM. You’ll get to experience our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, get one-on-one advice from teachers, listen in on course info sessions, watch live performances, learn about careers in music, and meet our talented students and alumni.
With undergraduate and postgraduate courses in music performance, composition, audio, music theatre, musicology, and arts and entertainment management, we offer specialisations to match a variety of passions.
Find out everything you need to know about studying at AIM.
Find out more
UTS | Introduction to Bachelor of Information Systems
May 16, 2023
Understand complex information systems such as Systems Analytics, Service Innovation, Smart Infrastructure, and Sustainable Enterprises.
Find out more
UTS College | Mid-Year Information Session
May 16, 2023
Fast track your way into second year UTS.
If you want to study at UTS but need another way in, UTS College can help. Enrol in a UTS College diploma this June and you could start second year at UTS in 2024!
Want to learn more? Come join our information session!
Find out more
Northwest Regional Careers Expo 2023
May 17, 2023
Our Careers Expo was started in 1992 by Rotary Club of Tamworth First Light. Attendees benefited from a wide range of exhibitors from a large variety of industries providing valuable advice and information to help further their career and business development. The event continues to provide valuable access to local and interstate exhibitors for the community and schools from Tamworth and the surrounding region.
Find out more
University of Sydney | Interested in studying nutrition or becoming a dietitian?
May 17, 2023
Join us to learn more about our Bachelor of Science/Master of Nutrition and Dietetics degree, study pathways and how it will help set you up for success in your career aspirations in the nutrition and dietetics discipline. The nutrition field is constantly evolving with new information emerging daily, which is why our degree incorporates new exciting subjects, including:
FMHU2001 Mythbusting food and health and NTDT3002 Evidence-based practice in nutrition.
Our course will provide you with the knowledge, tools and professional accreditation to succeed in this fascinating discipline.
Find out more
UTS | Introduction to Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence
May 17, 2023
Learn how to become an AI expert and offer innovative solutions to challenges in the era of Big Data, cloud computing and automation.
Find out more
UAC Digital | Let’s Chat – Applying to the Schools Recommendation Scheme
May 17, 2023
While the ATAR is still the main selection tool used by most universities, there are other ways for you to show that you’re ready to succeed at uni. Many institutions have one or more early offer schemes for Year 12 students. Through these schemes, institutions assess you using criteria other than (or in addition to) your ATAR.
We’ll give you an overview of the Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) and discuss:
SCCE | Exchange Webinar
May 17, 2023
Preparing for your exchange program is an important part of the process and is vital to continued program success. At these online meetings, an experienced high school exchange advisor will share an overview of high school exchange programs with Southern Cross Cultural Exchange.
You’ll learn more about living with a host family and how studying overseas can help you develop confidence and independence… and gain a lifetime of memories.
Find out more
UOW | Online Parents & Students Info Evening
May 17, 2023
Find out about our courses, Early Admission, ATAR and selection rank, important dates, scholarships, accommodation, upcoming events, student life and more at one of our Year 12 information evenings.
You will also have the opportunity to get your questions answered by course experts and our current students who are studying right now!
Find out more
Notre Dame | Young Achievers Early Offer Information Session, Sydney
May 17, 2023
Find out everything you need to know about the program, including selection criteria, the application process, important dates, benefits and more.
You’ll also hear from current students about how receiving an Early Offer helped them finish Year 12 with added confidence, and have the opportunity to chat 1:1 with academics about your undergraduate study options for 2024.
Find out more
University of Newcastle | HSC Support Webinar – Taking Action Towards Your Career
May 17, 2023
The taking action towards your career session is specifically designed to provide you with invaluable insights on how to set yourself up for success in your future academic and professional pursuits. The webinar will also feature a University of Newcastle Student Ambassador who will share details about the University’s new Early Entry Program.
Find out more
University of Sydney | Meet Sydney Uni – Regional NSW
May 18 to June 22, 2023
Join us for an information evening to find out all you need to know about the University of Sydney! Learn about our new Regional and Remote Entry Scheme and MySydney Scheme. The session will also cover information about courses, admission requirements, entry schemes/pathways, fees, scholarships, and the type of support available on campus. Uni students and alumni from Regional NSW will share stories, tips on moving away from home, and advice about their journey to university and beyond. You’ll also get the chance to speak with staff and students and have all your questions about the University of Sydney answered.
Find out more
UTS | Introduction to Software Engineering
May 18, 2023
Join us and learn how Software engineering is the application of engineering principles to the design, development, and maintenance of software.
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WSU | Unlocking Careers in Sport and Health
May 19, 2023
This on campus event for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander High School students raises knowledge and aspiration for Careers in Sport and Health.
Students will participate in a range of practical workshops, a Q&A Yarn Up with Indigenous industry professionals to gain insights into their work, their education journey and pathways leading them to their career.
All attendees will receive a free WSU Sport and Health Pack.
Find out more
JMC Academy | May Open Day, Sydney
May 20, 2023
Register for our Free Open Day! This is your chance to see our multi-million dollar world-class facilities.
Things to do at Open Day:
NIE | Simulated UCAT Day Workshop, Online
May 20, 2023
If you are in Yrs. 10, 11, 12, or you may be older and considering sitting the UCAT in the future, then this program is for you. The Simulated UCAT Workshop program is ideal and often a necessary step towards effective and efficient preparation for the UCAT.
This event will be conducted by the National Institute of Education in partnership in partnership with UCAT Preparation Australia, and MICAS (Medical Interviews and Career Advice Services).
The workshop is primarily designed to cover fundamental techniques in navigating all five sections of the UCAT test and also for participants to gain a better understanding of their own level of preparedness for the test.
Find out more
Sydney Design School | Open Day
May 20, 2023
Join us for our biggest day of the year! Our Director Amanda Grace will take you through our flexible course options. Meet our passionate Educators and get creative with colour and fabrics by making a mood board!
Find out more
UTS | Introduction to Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering
May 22, 2023
Get excited by robots, nanomachines, and biomedical devices – this can be your future career.
Find out how by joining our webinar and discussing with our academics.
Find out more
UOW | Albury Parents & Students Info Evening
May 23, 2023
Find out about our courses, Early Admission, ATAR and selection rank, important dates, scholarships, accommodation, upcoming events, student life and more at one of our Year 12 information evenings.
You will also have the opportunity to get your questions answered by course experts and our current students who are studying right now!
Find out more
UTS | Women in Engineering and IT Scholarships
May 23, 2023
Learn more about the Women in Engineering and IT Community and the scholarships that are available for women in engineering or IT, and how to prepare an awesome application.
Find out more
University of Sydney | Film Studies Masterclass – Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton
May 23, 2023
Calling all budding film-buffs, scriptwriters and creatives!
The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences is cracking open its doors to 20 lucky guests, to sit in with current creative writing and film studies students for a very special masterclass with Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton.
Sign up for this unique opportunity to learn from Margaret and David about the films that changed their life, the evolution of the film industry, the power of language in film criticism – as well as how to turn your passion for cinema into a career.
Find out more
Important Future Events
Notre Dame | Pathways to Medicine Information Session
May 29, 2023
We will be providing information about the exciting new pathways into Notre Dame’s Doctor of Medicine degree via our undergraduate Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Bachelor of Advanced Biomedical Science (Honours) degrees.
Our online info session is your opportunity to hear important information about these new pathway programs, admission requirements, and information on how to apply, course structure, as well as participate in a Q&A to have all your questions answered.
You’ll hear from School of Medicine and School of Health Sciences academics, along with staff from Admissions and the Prospective Students Office.
Find out more
HSC and Careers Expo 2023
June 1 to June 3, 2023
HSC and Careers Expo celebrates its 15th year in 2023!
There will be a variety of organisations to chat with:
Charles Sturt | EngFest 2023
June 6 to June 8, 2023
EngFest is Charles Sturt’s annual three-day celebration of civil engineering, with exhibitions and presentations of student works and research, school visits and information sessions, a careers expo, industry networking, professional development events and more.
It brings together students, cadet and professional civil engineers, researchers, representatives of Engineers Australia, interested members of the public and school students.
We invite you to come along to meet the engineers of tomorrow and see what the future of engineering holds.
Find out more
BiG Day In Port Macquarie
June 8, 2023
Join us at CSU Port Macquarie for the 2023 BiG Day In! We’re excited to be back on Campus at CSU again bringing cool speakers from organisations such as Essential Energy, Wisetech Global, TCS, Australian Signals Directorate, Australian Space Agency & Defence Force Recruiting to talk to students about where a STEM/STEAM career can take them.
Find out more
University of Newcastle | ExperimentFest
June 13 to June 23, 2023
For the more than 20 years, the University of Newcastle has been working with local high schools to provide authentic, engaging, and hands-on experiences for HSC students.
For those studying Stage 6 Science/Food Tech Subjects, Experiment Fest is the chance to improve laboratory skills and use specialised equipment that isn’t readily available in regular classrooms, while conducting experiments that directly relate to the HSC syllabus in the areas of;
Girls in Aviation Day – Dubbo | Wiradjuri Country
June 16, 2023
GIAD is a free event offered to those who identify as girls ages 8 to 17 years to introduce them to the many aviation career possibilities.
The day is an opportunity to explore the exciting careers available in the aviation and aerospace industry, such as engineers, aircraft maintenance technicians, pilots, operational staff, air traffic controllers, and many other jobs within the aviation community.
Attendees will be guided in small groups through multiple stations, combining a mix of hands on activities and wonderful stories of the industry. A short stop for a free light lunch will also be included.
The day will be full of career inspiration, supported by amazing people from the industry, including female role models.
Find out more
Scholarships
Scholarships for Underrepresented Students in Australia
We believe that education is a journey that should be accessible to all. Recognising the importance of diversity and inclusivity, lots of organisations and universities have established scholarship opportunities to support students from underrepresented backgrounds. These scholarships aim to empower students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that their potential is realised and their dreams are within reach. In this article, we’ll explore some of the scholarship opportunities available for different underrepresented groups.
Indigenous Scholarships
Australia’s rich indigenous heritage is celebrated through various scholarships designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. These scholarships aim to create pathways for Indigenous students to excel academically and pursue their aspirations. Some examples include:
Women in STEM Scholarships
Encouraging gender diversity in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is crucial for a thriving future. Several scholarships are specifically targeted towards young women with a passion for STEM. Here are some you might like to apply for:
Scholarships for Students with Disabilities
Recognising the talents and potential of students with disabilities, scholarships have been established to remove barriers and create equal opportunities. These scholarships provide financial support and resources to help students overcome challenges. For instance:
Scholarships for Students from Disadvantaged Backgrounds
Many scholarships are dedicated to supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals. These scholarships provide financial aid, mentorship, and guidance. Examples include:
Scholarships can play a vital role in fostering inclusivity and diversity in education. They can empower underrepresented students and open doors to a world of opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. We encourage anyone to explore the scholarship opportunities available – you never know what might be out there.
You can find more scholarships on our database here.
Getting Ready for Work
How Will AI Change the World of Work?
Artificial intelligence is a huge trend these days – each week it seems like there are bigger and better programs, doing everything from writing articles to creating images and even helping with early detection of cancer. But with this comes a hint of fear. Is AI going to completely change the world of work?
It might seem all doom and gloom, but the reality is far from it. In this blog, we’ll explore how AI is changing the world of work and offer some valuable tips on how you can prepare and adapt to thrive in this new era.
The Rise of AI in the Workplace
AI is transforming industries across the globe, revolutionising the way we work, communicate, and interact. According to the World Economic Forum, it’s estimated that by 2027, nearly half of all workplace tasks will be performed by machines.
What does this mean for us? We’ve heard that lots of jobs that require repetitive manual tasks are those most likely to be replaced by automation. But on the other hand, there’s a boom of job opportunities that require uniquely human skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Advancement in AI technology is creating new jobs too, particularly in fields such as data science, machine learning, and robotics.
It’s not that there will be less jobs in the future – the jobs of the future will simply look different to how they do today. Just like how there are already plenty of jobs that no longer exist, replaced by jobs that were unheard of just a few decades ago (think things like influencers and software developers).
Embrace AI as an Enabler, Not a Competitor
Rather than fearing AI as a threat to your job, it’s important to view it as a tool that can complement your work instead. There have been similar concerns throughout history that technology will replace people entirely, but today we would hardly be able to imagine a world without these technologies.
AI is great at automating repetitive tasks, which frees us up to focus on higher-level thinking, problem solving, and innovation. This means you can spend more time at work doing the really important things, and increase your productivity. It can also eliminate some undesirable jobs that nobody wants to do, whether it’s because they’re simply boring or downright unsafe.
Developing Essential Skills for the AI Era
As AI becomes more prevalent, certain skills will be in high demand. To prepare for the future of work, developing these skills will become even more important, such as:
Looking for the Positives
AI is changing the future of work, but it’s not something to fear – in fact, there are so many ways we can use AI to make the world a better place. By understanding the impact of AI on the job market and developing the skills needed to work alongside AI technologies, you can prepare for success no matter what the future might hold.
20 Jobs that Don’t Exist Anymore
Humans are constantly inventing and innovating, so it makes sense that the way we live and the world around us is also constantly changing. Change or progress can sometimes mean that jobs that existed in the past don’t exist anymore. Either we just don’t require that function any more, or we’ve developed alternatives.
Here are 20 examples of jobs that don’t exist anymore.
Carriage Makers
These skilled craftsmen used to make the carriages towed by horses, but were replaced by automobiles and trains.
Slubber Doffers
Usually children, they worked in textile mills and removed the empty bobbins from the looms all day.
Pin Setters
Before bowling alleys became automated in the 1950s, it was the job of young teens to run out and reset the pins after each bowler’s turn.
Knocker-Uppers
Also known as human alarm clocks, these workers were around from 400BC until after the industrial revolution. Their job was to head out each morning and knock on their paying customers’ doors or window using a baton or long stick to get the occupants up in time for work each day.
Lamp Lighters
Before electricity was invented and commonly available, they were needed to go around and light the street lamps by hand every single day.
Switchboard Operators
Originally replacing telegraphists, these workers connected callers to the number they wanted to connect with right up until the 1960s.
Resurrectionists or “Body Snatchers”
Had the gruesome job of (illegally) digging up recently buried bodies for anatomists to use for medical research.
Projectionists
Were the people responsible for operating film projectors in cinemas, including changing the film reels when they saw cues on screen. Modern day projectors are digital and operators just need to press play or set a timer.
Signalmen
Worked on the railways before automated systems were created. They did a variety of jobs that ensured that trains ran on time without having accidents.
Camera Film Developers
Digital cameras as we know them today only became popular in the mid-to-late 1990s. Before then, most cameras contained film that needed developing before you could see the images.
Some film developers are still around today, but most photographers who use camera film process their images themselves in darkrooms.
Lift Operators
Up until the 1970s you’d often be met in a lift by an operator who might have to manually open and close the doors, control the speed of the lift, and announce what or who was located on each floor as the car approached it.
Linotype Operators
Responsible for operating the Linotype machines that revolutionised the printing and factory industries worked between 1886 right up until the late 1960s. They had to accurately type each line of text that formed the metal strips for printing.
Human Computers
This was the name give to the people who performed complex calculations before computers and calculators took over the roles. Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson and Dorothy Vaughan are three Human Computers whose secret work enabled NASA space expeditions between 1940 and 1960.
Clock Keepers
Their job was to track time using basic maths skills to ensure the accuracy of clocks and other time keeping devices.
Lectors
Read aloud to factory workers, keeping them entertained during their long and boring shifts.
Aircraft Listeners
Before radars were invented, listeners manned the acoustic mirrors which detected the sound and direction of approaching enemy aircraft.
Milkmen
Used to collect the milk from local dairy farmers and deliver it to the doors of their customers.
Dunny Men
Would collect “nightsoil” from the old-fashioned outhouse dunnies which have now been (thankfully) replaced by modern sewerage and septic systems.
Scribes
For centuries before the invention of printing, this was a job that required some education. Scribes would have to copy text word for word to duplicate books and historical documents.
Video Store Employee
Up until about 20 years ago VHS videos and DVDs were how most people enjoyed watching a movie outside of the cinema. With the onset of digital on-demand and streaming services, the good old video store that used to be in every suburb is no longer.
It’s not necessarily a bad thing
When you hear about jobs that don’t exist anymore, it’s easy to think it’s something negative, and it’s often reported that way in the news too.
But often it can be a good thing, as you won’t have to do some of the more repetitive, tiresome, labour intensive, or downright unpleasant jobs that you might have been offered years ago.
Remember too that when some roles are no longer required, a whole new suite of careers may be created along with the latest developments and changes to our lifestyles and environments.
Keep looking ahead
There are lots of people whose job it is to look at all the information and statistics to make predictions about the growth or decline of different jobs.
It’s a good idea to keep up to date with the latest news and statistics – it could be really helpful when you’re considering future careers. The results might also influence your subject selection at high school, as well as which pathway you choose once you leave school.
Find out more about the future of work
If you’d like to learn a bit more about what changes to the workforce might look like in the next 5 to 10 years and beyond, here are a few blogs you might like to read:
We’ll also let you know in our weekly Job Spotlights the anticipated future growth and where the jobs are most in demand.
The National Skills Commission produce lots of reports and information about Australia’s future workforce. They also have a really handy tool called NERO that you could keep your eye on – you can sign up to receive updates every few months too.
The Labour Market Insights website also provides lots of useful information about careers and their predicted growth.
Work Experience
Preparing for Work Experience
Thinking about a career, but not sure if it’s going to be the right fit? Work experience is a great way to get a taste of a job and build some important skills. So if you’re thinking of going on work experience, this blog will provide you with practical tips and advice to help you prepare, and come out the other end feeling more secure about your career choices.
The Importance of Work Experience
Work experience can serve as a stepping stone towards your future career. It offers a glimpse into the real working world, helping you develop essential skills, gain industry insights, and make informed decisions about your future. By participating actively and preparing beforehand, you’ll maximise the value of this experience and lay the foundation for your future career choices.
Research and Goal Setting
Before you begin your placement, do some research about the company or organisation you’ll be joining. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and the work they do. This knowledge will demonstrate your enthusiasm and allow you to ask thoughtful questions. It’s also a good idea to set specific goals for what you hope to achieve during your placement. Whether it’s gaining exposure to a particular department or mastering a specific skill, having clear objectives will guide your efforts and make your experience more meaningful.
Dress Code and Professional Etiquette
First impressions matter, and dressing appropriately is an essential aspect of professional etiquette. Find out the dress code at the workplace and ensure your attire is clean, neat, and aligned with their expectations. Remember to maintain a professional demeanour throughout your work experience, including polite and respectful communication with colleagues, punctuality, and a positive attitude. These habits will demonstrate your enthusiasm and leave a lasting impression – and could net you a positive reference at the end of your placement.
Networking and Building Relationships
Work experience provides an excellent opportunity to network and build valuable professional relationships. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to colleagues, ask about their roles, and the journeys they took to get to where they are today. Actively participate in team activities and engage in conversations, showing genuine curiosity and eagerness to learn. Cultivating relationships within your chosen field can open doors to future opportunities and mentorship.
Embracing Challenges and Seeking Feedback
During your placement, you may encounter unfamiliar tasks or situations. Embrace these challenges as learning opportunities and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. At the same time, don’t hesitate to ask for help or clarification when needed. Additionally, seek feedback from your supervisor or colleagues to gauge your progress and identify areas for improvement.
This feedback will be invaluable in knowing the skills and knowledge you can work on in the future.
Reflecting and Learning from the Experience
Once your placement comes to an end, take time to reflect on the lessons you’ve learned and the skills you’ve acquired. Consider how this experience has shaped your understanding of your chosen career path and identify areas you’d like to explore further. Reflecting on your work experience will help you make informed decisions about your future studies and career aspirations.
By properly preparing, researching, embracing challenges, and building relationships, you’ll maximise the benefits of your work experience placement. Remember, this experience could be a stepping stone to your future; stay positive, be proactive, and make the most of any opportunities that come your way.
You can find more blogs and advice about preparing for work experience and search for opportunities on our website here.
Competitions
2023 Travel Photographer of the Year Competition
The 2022 Travel Photographer of the Year awards (TPOTY) are now open.
TPOTY is truly global – wherever you live in the world and whether you are amateur or professional, beginner or expert, young or old, Travel Photographer of the Year is for you.
Submit your entries in a range of categories which reflect the breadth and diversity of travel photography, combined with the values of environment, diverse cultures, sustainability and conservation.
Entries are open until 1 October 2023.
Find out more and enter here: https://www.tpoty.com/
The 2023 Next Gen Awards
With so many young people leading projects in their communities, the Next Gen Awards have been created as an opportunity to showcase our next generation of young innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders across the country.
Entries for this awards program are open to all Australian primary and high school students and teachers with six categories to acknowledge young people that are building their 21st-century skills as they work on projects to bring their ideas to life and make an impact in their communities.
The 2023 awards program features a myriad of opportunities for young people to build their skills, network with other young leaders, and connect with leading organisations across the country looking to support innovative young professionals.
If you are a young innovator, entrepreneur or leader currently enrolled in a primary or high school across the country, make sure to nominate now!
Applications open on the 15th of May 2023, and will close on the 21st of August 2023.
Find out more: https://www.bopindustries.com/next-gen
Submissions Open for UN Youth’s Global Advocate
UN Youth’s Global Advocate magazine consists of literary and artistic pieces produced by young, talented Australians selected for their unique point of view. After a successful two publications last year, we are excited to be back for a sixth issue!
The theme for the next issue is JOURNEYS, which will aim to explore the physical and metaphorical journeys that extend across cultures, peoples and borders that make us human beings.
We are after essays, articles, short fiction, letters, poems, opinions pieces, artwork and photography that explores the ways journeys shape our lives and form our own identities.
Pitches are now open to Australian youth between the ages of 12-15 and close on the 31st of May.
Find out more: https://unyouth.org.au/event/nsw-global-advocate/
Surround Sound Band Competition 2023
Surround Sound is a band competition for students from secondary schools in rural and remote areas.
Bands must have between 3 and 16 members and may perform covers or originals in any style of contemporary music.
All performers must be students currently enrolled at a NSW public school in Years 7 to 12. No teachers or tutors can perform as part of the band.
Round 1 will be held by video submission.
Round 2 will see schools chosen as finalists visited by an industry mentor for a workshop at a time to be negotiated.
Round 3 finalists will prepare a 15-minute set for a performance at a live event in Sydney in Term 4. Song choice will be subject to copyright advice. Bands will be supported to travel to Sydney and accommodated for their performance at the final.
Applications close Friday 26 May 2023.
Find out more: https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/local-arts-programs/rural-north-rural-south-and-west/surround-sound
Resources
Exploring Vocational Education
Are you thinking about your options for when you leave school? In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of vocational education and why it might be the perfect choice for you. While university is often seen as the traditional route to employment after school, vocational education offers a unique and equally promising pathway to success. So, let’s dive in and discover why vocational education might just be the right fit for you.
Embracing Your Passions and Strengths
Are you someone who loves getting hands-on, thrives in practical environments, or has a strong inclination towards a specific trade or skill? Vocational education allows you to explore and develop your passions and strengths. Whether it’s automotive mechanics, culinary arts, graphic design, healthcare, or information technology, vocational programs provide specialised training that directly aligns with your interests, giving you a head start in pursuing a career you truly enjoy.
Real-World Experience
One of the unique aspects of vocational education is the emphasis on real-world experience.
While theoretical knowledge has its place, vocational programs offer practical, industry-specific training that allows you to gain valuable hands-on experience. By working with professionals in your chosen field, you’ll develop the skills employers are seeking, making you more marketable and ready to hit the ground running after graduation.
Career Readiness
Vocational education equips you with the skills and expertise required for immediate entry into the workforce. These programs are designed to meet industry demands, ensuring you have the knowledge and practical abilities necessary to excel in your chosen career. Additionally, many vocational institutions have strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing opportunities for traineeships, apprenticeships, and job placement assistance. This bridge between education and employment enhances your prospects right from the get-go.
Flexibility and Affordability
University education often comes with a significant time commitment and financial investment.
In contrast, vocational education offers flexibility in terms of program length and structure.
Whether you’re looking for a short-term course or a longer program, vocational education allows you to choose what works best for you. Moreover, vocational programs are often more cost-effective (and sometimes even completely free), saving you from the burden of extensive student loans and enabling you to enter the workforce sooner.
Meeting Industry Demands
As the workforce evolves, industries have an increasing demand for skilled professionals in various sectors. Vocational education addresses this need by focusing on specific industries, offering specialised training that directly aligns with emerging job opportunities. By pursuing vocational education, you position yourself as a valuable asset to employers seeking individuals with practical skills and industry-specific knowledge.
As you contemplate your future options, remember that vocational education is a pathway worth considering. It offers you a chance to embrace your passions, gain practical experience, and enter the workforce equipped with the skills and knowledge employers seek.
So take a moment to explore the vast array of vocational programs available. Contact local TAFEs and VET providers and gather information to make an informed decision. Remember, your journey is about finding the right path for you.
You can also learn more about vocational education and training on our website here.
5 Essential Budgeting Tips for Teenagers
As a teenager, learning how to manage your money effectively is an essential life skill that can set you on the path to financial success. Budgeting not only helps you make the most of your earnings but also builds discipline and responsible financial habits. In this blog, we’ll explore five budgeting tips specifically tailored for teenagers, empowering you to take control of your finances and pave the way for a secure future.
Set Clear Financial Goals
Having clear financial goals is the first step toward successful budgeting. Take some time to identify your short-term and long-term objectives. Are you saving for a specific item, like a new smartphone or a trip? Or do you have more long-term goals, such as saving for university or starting a small business? By defining your goals, you can allocate your money accordingly and stay motivated to stick to your budget.
Track Your Expenses
Keeping track of your expenses is crucial to understanding where your money goes and identifying areas where you can cut back or save. Make a habit of recording your spending – this can be through a budgeting app (such as Mint or PocketGuard) or even just in a simple notebook. Categorise your expenses, such as entertainment, transportation, or eating out, to get a clear picture of your spending patterns. This practice will help you make informed decisions and make adjustments as needed.
Differentiate Between Needs and Wants
It’s easy to get carried away with impulsive purchases, especially when you’re bombarded with ads constantly. Learning to differentiate between needs and wants is vital for maintaining a balanced budget. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it’s a necessity or a desire. By focusing on what you need first, you can prioritise your spending and allocate any remaining funds toward your wants without jeopardising your financial stability.
Be Realistic
A budget acts as a roadmap for your finances, guiding you toward your goals. To create a realistic budget, start by calculating your income, including allowances, part-time job earnings, or any other sources. Next, list your regular expenses, such as school supplies, transportation costs, and personal items. Allocate a portion of your income toward savings and emergencies.
Ensure your expenses don’t exceed your income, and leave room for unexpected expenses. Regularly review and adjust your budget to stay on track.
Save and Invest Wisely
Saving money is not only about setting it aside; it’s also about making it grow. Explore different savings options available to teenagers, such as open
