CAREERS NEWS
There’s much to look forward to as we launch into the final term of the year. Students will have opportunities to participate in a range of programs to build their understanding of various careers and the steps needed to reach their post-school goals.
If you have any questions or require a Transition and Pathway meeting to discuss post-school options, email:
arenasm01@dow.catholic.edu.au or call 4423 1666 to make an appointment
Ms Arenas
INFO AND TIPS
Schoolies alternatives you want to know about
Getting teenagers to open up about their future plans can feel impossible, especially when they clam up the moment you ask “What do you want to do when you leave school?” The problem isn’t that they don’t have thoughts about their future – it’s that direct questions about careers can feel overwhelming and judgmental.
One of the most common questions we hear about school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (or SBATs) is whether you can pursue one while still aiming for an ATAR. It’s a fair question – after all, an SBAT involves working at least one day per week plus attending training, which is time you won’t be spending on your ATAR subjects.
Study Guide - What is Study??
Study is about more than just good grades - it’s a chance to build skills and habits that set you up for success throughout life. Whether you’re in high school, starting university, or returning to study later in life, how you approach your studies can shape your future pathways.
See the guide below to unpack what ‘study’ means, and the different approaches you can take to build effective study habits.
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
ADF Information Session - Inspiring Our Future
On Wednesday, 15 October 2025, the ADF Careers Team visited SJE to deliver an engaging session for Years 10 and 11. The presentation covered Defence career pathways, the application process, and insights from current serving members, followed by an interactive Q&A.
Students also participated in a co-facilitated Physical Training (PT) session, where they were introduced to elements of the Physical Fitness Assessment, including the beep test, sit-ups, and push-ups.
The day was a great success with students gaining confidence in the application process and the possibility of a future ADF career pathway.
UPCOMING EVENTS
'Yes' Program - Nowra TAFE - Welding
Nowra TAFE is offering students the opportunity to build their skills and knowledge in this area of work.
Students will learn to:
- Perform basic welding
- Heat and cut ferrous metals.
- Perform thermal cutting using oxy-acetylene equipment
- Carry out manual metal arc welding
- Undertake gas metal arc welding
- Operate gas tungsten arc welding
- Support general workplace health and safety
From here, there is potential to lead into Cert II Welding /Engineering pathways (fee-free) in 2026.
The program will run over 5 weeks at the Nowra Campus.
Dates: 5/11/2025 to 3/12/2025
Time: 9 am - 3 pm (approximately)
EOI - Posted on Google Classroom - only 3 spots available
See Ms Arenas if you are interested in this program.
TAFE Open Week 2025 - 17 to 23 November
Jump online and explore the digital hub packed with live info sessions, on-demand videos, and a fun career quiz to help students find their path. It’s all in one place, super easy to access and designed so they can get involved wherever they are. Throughout the week, students can learn about TAFE NSW courses, facilities and flexible study options.
Information Sessions
Gather detailed course information straight from our experienced teachers with Information Sessions running throughout the week online.
Live sessions and on-demand videos
Students can learn how to enrol, understand payments, fees and scholarships, how to find an apprenticeship, discover student support services, recognition of prior learning and more at TAFE NSW.
Win great prizes
Simply by registering for Open Week events, students can enter the draw for the chance to win some fantastic prizes.
Not sure where to start, take our Study Seeker quiz
It only takes a few minutes to find a perfect fit. Students can take our quick quiz to discover their strengths and interests, and we’ll recommend a range of TAFE NSW courses that are right for where they want to go.
Register now to join an information session, explore TAFE NSW’s wide range of courses, and enrol for 2026.
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.
Shoalhaven Community College and Shoalhaven Food Network - RSA, RCG & Food Handling Certificates - $148 for all of them!
This is a three-day commitment starting on 17-19 November at UOW Shoalhaven Campus.
OR
1-3 December at Ulludulla TAFE
There is an option to complete the RSA and RCG at Bomaderry Community College
Dates: October 20-21
Cost: $148 for both certificates
Only 20 spots are available, so be quick to take up this opportunity.
To enrol:
- Complete the Digital and Funding forms on the Home South Coast College link below
- You must have your USI Number
- You must be 18 years of age to participate
Note: RSA training does not require you to be 18, however this program has made it a prerequisite.
If you have any questions, see me in my office.
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.
UAC - Career Mapping - Where to after school?
Many students are uncertain about their next steps after Year 12. But – as Phillip Williamson, Head Teacher Careers for the NSW Government’s Educational Pathways Program, writes – it’s vital to go easy on yourself, self-reflect and do your research. Here are Williamson's practical tips for starting your career journey. The most important thing, he advises, is to focus on your direction, not your destination.
When will I get my uni offer?
Here’s a rundown of the most important offer rounds for Year 12 students in the lead up to semester 1, 2026.
HSC Study Guide - The Sydney Morning Herald Sun
Tips and tricks to help you over the final stage of your HSC.
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
SCHOLARSHIPS - START NOW!
Shoalhaven Education Fund
The Shoalhaven Education Fund was established to provide much needed financial assistance and support to local youth to help them achieve their post- high school education, training and vocation aspirations. We recognise that the cost of rural students pursuing their post- high school goals is often much greater than those of their metropolitan counterparts and that sometimes these costs can be prohibitive.
SEF fundraises throughout the year and accepts donations from local residents and businesses in order to provide financial grants to students who need an extra helping hand. The funds come directly from your local community – none of it is government funded – celebrating the aspirations of local youth and working to help them achieve these aspirations.
TAFE
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
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, TRAINEESHIPS AND CADETSHIPS
Assured Locksmiths and Security Solutions
We have an opening for a First Year Apprentice Locksmith, beginning at the start of 2026.
It’s a great chance for someone keen to start a hands-on trade and learn all aspects of locksmithing.
Go to the Careers Classroom for information and application form.
CSS Engineering Pty Ltd
Porter Building Group Apprenticeship
Porter Building Group, a local building company based in the Illawarra. We are currently looking to employ an apprentice carpenter and are looking at students finishing their HSC.
Contact:
Director
0401 639 267
porterbuildinggroup
Sikorsky Australia Apprenticeships
Sikorsky has recently opened its intake for 2026 Aeroskills Apprenticeships with numbers to be finalised.
Apprenticeships will be in the following trades:
- Mechanical
- Avionics
- Structures
Pacific Smiles Dental Traineeship
Pacific Smiles in Nowra.
We offer career opportunities in the region from Nowra-Wollongong that include traineeships and on-the-job training.
Contact Sharelle on:
P: 02 44468700 E:sharelle.parker@pacificsmiles.com.au
Burbank & Brown Lawyers Nowra - Traineeship
Melissa Vine, principal solicitor at Burbank & Brown Lawyers in Nowra, has asked me to share details of a traineeship they're offering to 2025 Year 12 leavers. They are offering full time employment as a trainee legal assistant, a TAFE certificate and an opportunity to gain valuable experience in law.
See details in the flier attached to Google Classroom . While the SEF has no affiliation with this, successful applicants may be eligible for SEF funding to help with the TAFE component.
Sophie Ray FAICD FGIA
Chair
Ph: 0414 379 059
Shoalhaven City Council
Watts Glass
Watts Glass are currently looking for an apprentice. I have attached a link with information about the what the role involves on Google Classroom. You can work in all sorts of buildings (domestic/commercial) and work with many types of glass.
If you are interested, contact:
Simon Watts
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 !
Check Google Classroom for further information
Dairy Farm Hand - Casual
Would suit school student - Gerringong NSW
Casual dairy farm hand job available in Gerringong. This role would suit a school student who loves animals and likes to see the sunrise.
The role will include weekend work, primarily with some mornings if you are available.
We are happy to train you if you are keen and reliable. Duties will include milking and calf care.
To apply email:dairyjobsaustralia@gmail.com
Peak Sports and Learning
Peak Sports and Learning are looking for people who would like to work in their vacation care program. If you are interested in child care, primary/secondary teaching or early education you may like to have a look.
Roxy Cinema
The Roxy Theatre is currently seeking to employ junior staff in the coming months as they prepare for their upcoming reopening.
They will be conducting interviews, inductions and training sessions prior to the reopening to ensure all new team members are well-prepared for their roles.
Fill out the application form on Google Classroom. Once completed send to: The General Manager, via email to: admin_roxy@roxy.com.au
Henry Clive - Events/Hospitality
If you are keen to work in hospitality, Henry Clive is looking for staff to work at a range of events, including weddings. Most work is at The Wood in Husky and The Cove.
Contact Fred on: 0405 557 147
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 you 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
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/
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