Careers – Week 4 Term 3

MCE Careers Website Link mcecareers.com

Term 3, Week 4 2026

Dear Parents/Carers and Students,

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Year 10 Work Experience Paperwork

Parents and students, please note that all completed Work Experience paperwork (Student Placement Record and Risk Assessment form) is strictly due by Monday, 24 August 2026 (Week 6). Timely submission is essential to ensure placement approvals are processed smoothly.

Action Required:

Secure Placement: Finalise your employer arrangements.
Complete Paperwork: Ensure the Student Placement Record (SPR) (including Section 3 by the employer) and Risk Assessment form are fully completed.
Submit for Review: Submit your documents to Mr. Nguyen (via email or in-person).
Finalise: Upload your completed documents to the designated Google Form.

Upcoming University Open Days

Attending campus Open Days is one of the absolute best ways for boys to explore future study options, check out specialised facilities and speak directly with academics and university students.

Macquarie University Open Day: Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Wallumattagal Campus. Explore future-focused degrees, chat 1:1 with academics, take guided campus tours and participate in faculty-led workshops.
University of Newcastle Open Day (Newcastle): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Callaghan & City Campuses. Features degree presentations, interactive program activations, campus tours and student Q&A sessions.
ACAP Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Learn about people-focused courses in psychology, counselling, social work, criminology, law and business.
AIM August Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Tour recording studios, explore performance spaces and meet academics across music and creative arts disciplines.
ADFA Open Day 2026: Saturday, 15 August 2026 (In-Person at Canberra Campus & Online). Learn about studying world-class UNSW degrees alongside military training and campus life.
SAE Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Tour creative studios and explore career paths across animation, audio, design, film, games, music and VFX.
ACU Open Day (Strathfield): Sunday, 16 August 2026 at the Strathfield Campus. Sit in on faculty information sessions and learn about entry schemes and pathway options.
Collarts Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 22 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Guided tours, interactive demonstrations and course info hubs across creative fields.
Le Cordon Bleu Sydney Open Day: Saturday, 22 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Live culinary demonstrations in cuisine and pâtisserie alongside seminars on hotel and restaurant management.

Online Information Sessions & Webinars

Conservation Science Careers Webinar: Friday, 14 August 2026. Hosted online by Bush Heritage Australia on the eve of National Science Week, connecting students with field professionals in conservation.
Discover Western Webinar – Scholarships: Tuesday, 18 August 2026. Western Sydney University hosts a session walking through scholarship categories and practical tips for writing personal statements.
Explore Geosciences at Sydney Webinar: Wednesday, 19 August 2026. University of Sydney session covering study options in Earth, ocean, climate, energy and sustainability challenges.
UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship Chat: Thursday, 20 August 2026. Learn about what the UNSW Co-op Program involves, benefits for Scholars and how it shapes industry leadership development.
QTAC Student Information Night 2026: Thursday, 20 August 2026. Live online session providing step-by-step guidance and insider tips for tertiary applications through QTAC.

Expos, Workshops & Industry Events

Wacky Works: Science of Making & Invention Show: Saturday, 15 August 2026 at Windale Hub. Interactive engineering and physics demonstration show hosted by Fizzics Education for Maker-Con 26.
Quantum Future Talent – From Curiosity to Career: Tuesday, 18 August 2026 at The Concourse Chatswood. Features industry speakers, university representatives (USYD, UNSW, UTS, Macquarie) and interactive demonstrations exploring quantum computing and tech careers.
Why the Honey Bee is Smarter than ChatGPT Lecture: Tuesday, 18 August 2026 at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus. Prof. Andrew Barron discusses honey bee brain biology and key takeaways for AI and robotics development.
The Coolest Careers in Finance You’ve Never Heard Of: Wednesday, 19 August 2026 at Canva Space, Surry Hills & Online. Panel hosted by INCO Academy highlighting non-traditional roles in city planning, green funding, start-ups and banking innovation.
Galaxy Games Festival: Saturday, 22 August 2026 at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus. Co-run by Game Development students featuring game showcases, guest industry speakers and technical insights.
CAD (Computer Aided Design) for Youth (14+): Sunday, 23 August 2026 at Marrickville Pavilion. Hands-on workshop covering 3D sketching, modelling and problem-solving using Autodesk Fusion 360.

Career Pathways & Job Spotlights

Pathways into Dentistry

Dentistry is one of the most competitive tertiary entry fields in Australia, requiring early preparation and a clear strategy.

What Dentists Do: Perform check-ups, treat decay, fit fillings, manage gum health and advise on oral care. Practitioners work in private practices, public hospitals, community health centers, defense forces and research.
High School Subject Focus: Chemistry and biology are critical for human anatomy and pharmacology. Mathematics and physics support calculations and imaging technology, while clear written and spoken English is essential for clinical notes and patient care.
Key Non-Academic Skills: Manual dexterity and fine motor skills are vital for delicate clinical work. Strong communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and physical stamina are equally important.
Undergraduate vs Graduate Entry:
- Undergraduate (5 years): Available directly from high school at Charles Sturt University, Griffith University, James Cook University, La Trobe University, University of Adelaide and University of Queensland. Selection relies on high ATARs and strong UCAT scores.
- Graduate Entry (3.5–4 years): Completed after an initial bachelor’s degree at University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, UWA and University of Queensland (GAMSAT & GPA required).
Backup Pathways: Completing a Bachelor of Oral Health (qualifying as a dental hygienist or oral health therapist) builds hands-on clinical experience while opening doors to transfer or postgraduate dentistry applications later.

Job Spotlight: Community Liaison Officer

Community Liaison Officers bridge the gap between development teams (such as major infrastructure projects or local councils) and affected local communities.

Core Responsibilities: Develop engagement strategies, host town halls, record community feedback, resolve complaints and write stakeholder reports.
Key Skills: Active listening, conflict resolution, approachable demeanour, written reporting and relationship building.
Entry Routes: Degrees in communications, urban planning, social work, or project management provide strong foundations. Volunteering with community groups or gaining local council experience is highly valued by employers.

Balancing Part-Time Employment & Schoolwork

Holding a part-time job builds fantastic workplace skills, but keeping it from overwhelming study requires clear boundaries:

Communicate Roster Needs Early: Inform employers weeks in advance regarding major assessment blocks or exam periods so shift rosters can be scaled back.
Lock in Study Blocks: Treat study sessions as fixed commitments on your calendar with set start and end times, exactly like a rostered work shift.
Recognise Burnout Signs: Consistently rushing assignments at the last minute or feeling fatigued during class are clear indicators that work hours need to be trimmed.

Scholarships & Competitions

Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) Scholarship: Valued at $15,000 per year plus mentoring for students entering mining/engineering fields. (Opens 27 July 2026, closes 4 September 2026).

UNSW Scientia Scholarships: Valued at $10,000 AUD per year plus structured mentoring. (Closes 26 November 2026).

La Trobe Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship (Aspire): Valued at $5,000 per year. (Opens 3 August 2026, closes 9 October 2026).

Larsen Jewellery Design Scholarship: Valued at $3,000 AUD. (Closes 30 November 2026).

Write the World Micro Flash Fiction Competition (Ages 13–19): Creative writing contest offering cash prizes. (Closes 24 August 2026).
Global Logic & Reasoning Competition: International problem-solving competition with prizes up to $250 USD. (Closes 6 September 2026).

Should you have any questions regarding university entry schemes, trade pathways, or Year 10 work experience paperwork, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Careers Advisory office at school. Have a great weekend!

Reach Out to the Careers Desk

If your son needs help with:

UAC applications or university entry schemes
Resume reviews or job applications
Exploring apprenticeship or TAFE options

If you would like to discuss these pathways further, please book an appointment with the Careers office by email. We are here to support every student in finding their best next step!

Have a wonderful weekend ahead!

(For the extended version of the newsletter, please click here)

Warm regards,

Mr. Benjamin Nguyen – Careers Adviser
Benjamin.Nguyen004@syd.catholic.edu.au

Careers – Week 4 Term 3

Term 3, Week 4 2026

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Year 10 Work Experience Paperwork

Parents and students, please note that all completed Work Experience paperwork (Student Placement Record and Risk Assessment form) is strictly due by Monday, 24 August 2026 (Week 6). Timely submission is essential to ensure placement approvals are processed smoothly.

Upcoming University Open Days

Attending campus Open Days is one of the absolute best ways for boys to explore future study options, check out specialised facilities and speak directly with academics and university students.

Macquarie University Open Day: Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Wallumattagal Campus. Explore future-focused degrees, chat 1:1 with academics, take guided campus tours and participate in faculty-led workshops.

University of Newcastle Open Day (Newcastle): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Callaghan & City Campuses. Features degree presentations, interactive program activations, campus tours and student Q&A sessions.

ACAP Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Learn about people-focused courses in psychology, counselling, social work, criminology, law and business.

AIM August Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Tour recording studios, explore performance spaces and meet academics across music and creative arts disciplines.

ADFA Open Day 2026: Saturday, 15 August 2026 (In-Person at Canberra Campus & Online). Learn about studying world-class UNSW degrees alongside military training and campus life.

SAE Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Tour creative studios and explore career paths across animation, audio, design, film, games, music and VFX.

ACU Open Day (Strathfield): Sunday, 16 August 2026 at the Strathfield Campus. Sit in on faculty information sessions and learn about entry schemes and pathway options.

Collarts Open Day (Sydney): Saturday, 22 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Guided tours, interactive demonstrations and course info hubs across creative fields.

Le Cordon Bleu Sydney Open Day: Saturday, 22 August 2026 at the Sydney Campus. Live culinary demonstrations in cuisine and pâtisserie alongside seminars on hotel and restaurant management.

Online Information Sessions & Webinars

Conservation Science Careers Webinar: Friday, 14 August 2026. Hosted online by Bush Heritage Australia on the eve of National Science Week, connecting students with field professionals in conservation.

Discover Western Webinar – Scholarships: Tuesday, 18 August 2026. Western Sydney University hosts a session walking through scholarship categories and practical tips for writing personal statements.

Explore Geosciences at Sydney Webinar: Wednesday, 19 August 2026. University of Sydney session covering study options in Earth, ocean, climate, energy and sustainability challenges.

UNSW Co-op Program Scholarship Chat: Thursday, 20 August 2026. Learn about what the UNSW Co-op Program involves, benefits for Scholars and how it shapes industry leadership development.

QTAC Student Information Night 2026: Thursday, 20 August 2026. Live online session providing step-by-step guidance and insider tips for tertiary applications through QTAC.

Expos, Workshops & Industry Events

Wacky Works: Science of Making & Invention Show: Saturday, 15 August 2026 at Windale Hub. Interactive engineering and physics demonstration show hosted by Fizzics Education for Maker-Con 26.

Quantum Future Talent – From Curiosity to Career: Tuesday, 18 August 2026 at The Concourse Chatswood. Features industry speakers, university representatives (USYD, UNSW, UTS, Macquarie) and interactive demonstrations exploring quantum computing and tech careers.

Why the Honey Bee is Smarter than ChatGPT Lecture: Tuesday, 18 August 2026 at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus. Prof. Andrew Barron discusses honey bee brain biology and key takeaways for AI and robotics development.

The Coolest Careers in Finance You’ve Never Heard Of: Wednesday, 19 August 2026 at Canva Space, Surry Hills & Online. Panel hosted by INCO Academy highlighting non-traditional roles in city planning, green funding, start-ups and banking innovation.

Galaxy Games Festival: Saturday, 22 August 2026 at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus. Co-run by Game Development students featuring game showcases, guest industry speakers and technical insights.

CAD (Computer Aided Design) for Youth (14+): Sunday, 23 August 2026 at Marrickville Pavilion. Hands-on workshop covering 3D sketching, modelling and problem-solving using Autodesk Fusion 360.

Career Pathways & Job Spotlights

Pathways into Dentistry

Dentistry is one of the most competitive tertiary entry fields in Australia, requiring early preparation and a clear strategy.

What Dentists Do: Perform check-ups, treat decay, fit fillings, manage gum health and advise on oral care. Practitioners work in private practices, public hospitals, community health centers, defense forces and research.

High School Subject Focus: Chemistry and biology are critical for human anatomy and pharmacology. Mathematics and physics support calculations and imaging technology, while clear written and spoken English is essential for clinical notes and patient care.

Key Non-Academic Skills: Manual dexterity and fine motor skills are vital for delicate clinical work. Strong communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and physical stamina are equally important.

Undergraduate vs Graduate Entry:

Undergraduate (5 years): Available directly from high school at Charles Sturt University, Griffith University, James Cook University, La Trobe University, University of Adelaide and University of Queensland. Selection relies on high ATARs and strong UCAT scores.

Graduate Entry (3.5–4 years): Completed after an initial bachelor’s degree at University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, UWA and University of Queensland (GAMSAT & GPA required).

Backup Pathways: Completing a Bachelor of Oral Health (qualifying as a dental hygienist or oral health therapist) builds hands-on clinical experience while opening doors to transfer or postgraduate dentistry applications later.

Job Spotlight: Community Liaison Officer

Community Liaison Officers bridge the gap between development teams (such as major infrastructure projects or local councils) and affected local communities.

Core Responsibilities: Develop engagement strategies, host town halls, record community feedback, resolve complaints and write stakeholder reports.

Key Skills: Active listening, conflict resolution, approachable demeanour, written reporting and relationship building.

Entry Routes: Degrees in communications, urban planning, social work, or project management provide strong foundations. Volunteering with community groups or gaining local council experience is highly valued by employers.

Balancing Part-Time Employment & Schoolwork

Holding a part-time job builds fantastic workplace skills, but keeping it from overwhelming study requires clear boundaries:

Communicate Roster Needs Early: Inform employers weeks in advance regarding major assessment blocks or exam periods so shift rosters can be scaled back.

Lock in Study Blocks: Treat study sessions as fixed commitments on your calendar with set start and end times, exactly like a rostered work shift.

Recognise Burnout Signs: Consistently rushing assignments at the last minute or feeling fatigued during class are clear indicators that work hours need to be trimmed.

Scholarships & Competitions

Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) Scholarship: Valued at $15,000 per year plus mentoring for students entering mining/engineering fields. (Opens 27 July 2026, closes 4 September 2026).

UNSW Scientia Scholarships: Valued at $10,000 AUD per year plus structured mentoring. (Closes 26 November 2026).

La Trobe Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship (Aspire): Valued at $5,000 per year. (Opens 3 August 2026, closes 9 October 2026).

Larsen Jewellery Design Scholarship: Valued at $3,000 AUD. (Closes 30 November 2026).

Write the World Micro Flash Fiction Competition (Ages 13–19): Creative writing contest offering cash prizes. (Closes 24 August 2026).

Global Logic & Reasoning Competition: International problem-solving competition with prizes up to $250 USD. (Closes 6 September 2026).

Should you have any questions regarding university entry schemes, trade pathways, or Year 10 work experience paperwork, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Careers Advisory office at school. Have a great weekend!

Reach Out to the Careers Desk

Parent Communications Week 4 Term 3