CAREERS NEWS
CAREER ARTICLES
What’s the difference between a career, a job, and work?
We talk a lot about careers, jobs. and work – but what do these words actually mean? Are they really all just different words for the same thing, or are there subtle differences?
Well, they actually do all mean different things. And most importantly, knowing the differences can not only help you plan out your future, but also rethink what success in our working lives means.
Life Maps: Why do you need one?
Most of us don’t live life according to a map. We float from one thing to another, which is great, because it gives us the flexibility to go with the flow and make the most of opportunities. There is, however, a downside to making things up as you go. For more, go to the link attached.
Understanding the ATAR: Common questions answered
If you’re not entirely sure how the ATAR system works, why you might need one, and how they’re calculated, you’re definitely not alone. The Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (or ATAR) can seem confusing at first, but once you understand the basics, it all starts to make sense. Here are some of the most common questions answered and misconceptions about the ATAR busted.
To access more information on post-school options, upcoming tertiary institution events, TAFE, and employment opportunities, check the JobJump Newsletter posted on the Careers Google Classroom.
RECENT EVENTS
STEMC NSW Transport - Careers Day, a hit with students
On Wednesday, 11 June, a group of eager students from Years 9 to 12 attended the STEMC Careers Day at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse, an event run by Transport for NSW in partnership with the NSW Department of Education.
A big thank you to Ms Hall, who accompanied the group and met students bright and early at 6:45 am to ensure they didn’t miss a moment of this exciting opportunity.
The day was packed with interactive exhibits, showcasing the latest in emerging technologies such as virtual reality, drones, and artificial intelligence. Students had the chance to engage with real industry professionals working across Transport for NSW, learning first-hand about the wide range of career pathways, apprenticeships, and entry-level programs on offer.
The Women in STEMC Q&A Panel was a particular highlight, offering valuable insights and inspiration from female leaders in science, technology, engineering, maths, and construction.
Students gave positive feedback about the day, praising the industry interactions and gaining a much clearer understanding of how their interests could align with future roles in the transport sector.
Every student represented the school with pride, showing curiosity, respect, and enthusiasm throughout the day. A fantastic experience all round!
Year 10 Work Experience
Dates: Term 2, Week 10, June 30-July 4
In Term 2, Week 10, all Year 10 students are expected to participate in the work experience program. This is a valuable chance for students to delve deeper into a field of their interest, gaining a first-hand understanding of the roles within it. Such immersion can prove immensely beneficial as it allows individuals to discern whether their chosen industry aligns with their aspirations.
To facilitate this process, I encourage parents, guardians/carers, and students to refer to the Careers Google Classroom for guidance on how to approach potential employers. For your convenience, I have included all necessary documentation as attachments, streamlining the entire process.
Students must submit:
- Student Placement Record (SPR) is due now to the Careers Office
- My Work Experience - Certificate to be uploaded to Google Classroom
- Accommodation form - if the student intends to stay at another home during work experience
If you have any questions, please contact Ms Arenas on 4423 1666
University of Wollongong - Events for Year 10, 11 & 12
There are loads of fantastic opportunities for students and parents/guardians, including HSC subject support. For information on events, go to the link below.
YEAR 11 & 12 UPDATES
Please read the JobJump Newsletter posted on the Careers Google Classroom for updates on Open Days, courses and career information sessions.
Would you like to take a gap year, but are afraid you won’t be able to afford the costs? Or perhaps you’re really keen, but your parents are worried about the money and don’t want you ending up in debt.
These are both valid and sensible concerns! But if a gap year is what you really want and you have a plan in mind, you might be pleasantly surprised about how affordable some options are. Let’s take a look.
Early Entry Guide - Study, Work, Grow
Everything you need to know is in this guide. If you still have questions, please see me in the Careers office.
UAC - UNIVERSITIES ADMISSIONS CENTRE
UAC - Educational Access Schemes (EAS)
The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) aims to help students who have experienced significant educational disadvantage receive an offer to university.
UAC – FAQs about applying to University
Find answers to frequently asked questions about applying to university
UAC - Schools Recommendation Schemes (SRS)
Applications Close 5 September
The Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) is one way institutions make early offers of undergraduate admission to Year 12 students. They do this by using criteria other than (or in addition to) the ATAR. Each institution has its own policy for determining SRS eligibility and making offers. For example, you may also
have to submit an EAS application institution-defined dates, or attend a school in a particular region. SRS is not available for all courses. The institution-specific SRS criteria detail any exceptions.
UOW Early Admission
Applications are now OPEN!
Applications close 8 August 2025
UOW Early Admission is our early entry offer program for students completing Year 12 (Higher School Certificate or other Australian equivalents) during 2025. When you apply for Early Admission, UOW considers your unique skills and experiences, alongside your Year 11 results, so you can earn an offer to uni before you sit your first exam.
Getting early entry to UOW means less stress for you at that time and provides you with the certainty that next year you'll be studying at a uni who knows you're more than your ATAR.
UOW Ace your Early Admission application webinar
When: 30 June
UOW Early Admission is our early offer program for students completing Year 12 (Higher School Certificate or other Australian equivalents) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma during 2024. This webinar is your chance to ask any questions and find out how to get an offer to uni before you sit your first exam.
UOW Information Evenings
These interactive events are designed to answer all the common questions that students have about starting university study. UOW staff and current students will be on-hand to make sure you have your questions answered at the one time in the one place.
Register for these various events via the link here: https://www.uow.edu.au/study/events/
Upcoming Open Days
Looking to find out more about your future study options? Open days are the best place to learn all the information you need. Explore the campus and facilities, meet students and staff, and ask all your burning questions.
SCHOLARSHIPS
ANU Tuckwell Scholarship
One of the most prestigious scholarships in Australia. The program has a focus on giving back to Australia and is the only one of its kind that nurtures Scholars to fulfil their broader community ambitions over and above the pursuit of an undergraduate degree.
Each year we award 25 Scholarships and offer talented and motivated students the opportunity to realise their potential by providing financial support, personal enrichment and development opportunities.
TAFE
Starting in July - Semester 2 - Bomaderry Campus
If you are considering transitioning out of school, this may be a good option for you. Nowra TAFE will be running Electrotechnology and Construction in the next July intake. You will build skills, confidence, and make connections with industry professionals. This is a great opportunity if you are seeking to secure an apprenticeship in our current market.
These spots fill up very quickly, so get in touch with TAFE or myself asap to secure your spot.
Supporting You Every Step of the Way with TAFE NSW
Get the help you need to succeed
The TAFE NSW Counselling and Career Development Service is free and confidential and is designed to help you succeed in your studies at TAFE NSW, as well as in your chosen career.
Prospective TAFE NSW students are able to access the service to assist with course choice decisions and career planning.
Students enrolled with TAFE NSW are able to access a range of services to assist in career development and personal support.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/counselling-career-development-services
I Am Finishing School This Year Info Page
Whatever you're interested in, TAFE NSW has a pathway to get you there.
With hundreds of courses to choose from, including degrees, we can help you find your passion.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/open-day/i-am-finishing-school-this-year
TAFE NSW Degrees and Undergrad Certificates
You don't need an ATAR to study a degree with TAFE NSW, but you will graduate with a qualification that will change your future.
Study a Bachelor degree, post graduate or higher education qualification with TAFE NSW, and graduate with strong theoretical knowledge, practical experience and industry connections that will give you a head start on your career.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/degrees
TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses help students build practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, and count toward school outcomes, with some courses contributing towards an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS
Ai Group - Apprentice & amp; Trainee Centre
Ai Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre host apprentices across NSW and are a proud partner to more than 200 host employers.
https://www.aigroupapprentices.com.au/jobs/
Apprenticeships - Support for diverse cohorts
The Australian Government is improving access to Australian Apprenticeships and helping build a more diverse workforce. See if you're eligible for additional support. The Australian Government provides additional support for:
- Women in Trades
- First Nations Australians
- People with disability
Find out what support you can get as part of your apprenticeship
Expression of Interest for Electrical Apprenticeships
The apprenticeship lasts for a total of 4 years. For the first three years, you will be required to work four days on site to gather on-the-job experience, and one day undertaking technical studies. The fourth year will consist of only on-the-job training.
Automotive Apprenticeships - Vacancies
The automotive industry has changed substantially through the last decade to become a respected and financially secure career path. Any student that enjoys problem solving and working with their hands will thrive in automotive and has the opportunity to be a part of transformative change we haven't seen since vehicles replaced the horse and cart.
Do you aspire to be a builder?
Register your interest for the course starting 27 November Want to be a carpenter? This is your best first step. Master Builders will help prepare you to become the best 1st-year carpentry apprentice. This 3-week entry level training program provides an introduction into both the industry and a carpentry trade prior to commencing an apprenticeship.
Pre-apprenticeship Builder
Do you aspire to become a brickie?
Offer you the opportunity to study and earn an income while undertaking a qualification. It gives you the chance to learn new skills while getting paid. It can be done full-time or while you are at school through a School Based Apprenticeship. You can use your qualification to work anywhere in Australia and around the world.
Brickies Apprenticeships
Transport for NSW Apprenticeships and Traineeships
Transport for NSW currently have a number of Apprenticeship and Traineeships open for 2024 in both metro and regional areas. Currently on offer are:
- Business Traineeships
- Bridge Construction Apprenticeship
- Heavy Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship
- Project Management Traineeships
- Electrical Apprenticeship
- Civil Construction Apprenticeship
- Painting and Blasting Traineeship
A number of trainee roles are also available
https://jobs.transport.nsw.gov.au/go/Train-Crew-and-Customer-Service-Jobs/7831310/
Handy link for a range of job opportunities: Jobs Transport NSW
JOB VACANCIES !
McDonald’s
Macca’s at Bomaderry, Nowra and South Nowra, are seeking casual workers - Year 9, 10, 11 & 12. Apply now!
See Ms Arenas for details or apply directly careers.mcdonalds.com/australia
Red Rooster
Red Rooster is currently hiring young people.
If you are interested, contact Phoebe on: Ph 0448778156
Nowra Fresh - Junior Vacancies
We are seeking junior service staff for after school/weekend and holiday work, no experience necessary. The only "must" we have is that are available xmas week and easter Thursday, (if no school), Friday and Saturday. All other holiday time we are very flexible.
Drop your resume to Daniel at Nowra Fresh, Nowra
Pastry Chef - Apprenticeship Vacancy
North Nowra Bakery have an opening for a Pastry Chef apprentice. Contact them directly if you are interested.
See Ms Arenas if you need assistance with the application process.
Council Jobs!
Local Government NSW offers hundreds of jobs and diverse career paths. Across professional, administrative, trade and outdoor roles. Learn more about the type of work, qualifications required and the jobs available now in over 100 councils across NSW & others interstate
https://www.careersatcouncil.com.au/
At Woolworths Group, we create better experiences together for a better tomorrow. Our diverse group of retail businesses are some of Australia's most recognised and trusted brands, and our team are at the heart of everything we do.