Post-School Pathways News

Covered in this Article:
  • HSC workshops

  • UAC September updates and closing dates

  • Information Sessions for Students & Parents

  • Scholarships, Early Entry, and Alternative Pathways

  • Traineeships, Cadetships, Apprenticeships – Information & Opportunities

  • Job and Experience for Students (including local job opportunities)


HSC workshops

ACU Year 12 Revision Webinars 

Join ACU for a series of free online webinars run by experienced Year 12 exam markers and assessors. They’ll guide you through how to respond to possible exam questions and offer plenty of tips and strategies along the way. Register now: https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/events/year-12-revision-webinars.

InspirationED | Final Exam Masterclasses

UTS: Monday 26 September 2022, 9:00 am – Friday 30 September 2022, 5:00 pm

Macquarie: Monday 3 October 2022, 9:00 am – Friday 7 October 2022, 5:00 pm

Spend a day with an expert to help you ACE your final exams.

With 50% of your mark coming from these final exams, our Senior HSC markers will guide you through a day where they will:

  • Undertake a comprehensive review of all course material
  • Practice a range of possible questions you could be asked
  • Provide you with personalised feedback on your work
  • Make sure you are fully prepared for your final exams (in a fun, interactive day)

Subjects available:

  • English – Advanced & Standard
  • Mathematics – Advanced & Standard 2
  • Biology, Chemistry & Physics
  • Business Studies & Legal Studies
  • PDHPE

Find out more.

Western Sydney University HSC Study Session

Western will offer free online HSC study sessions delivered by qualified teachers, covering 14 subjects such as Chemistry, English, Maths and more, from 26 to 30 September. Find out more and register here.


UAC September updates and Closing dates

Early bird application fee ends 30 September

If you want to apply for undergraduate study in 2023, complete and pay for your application before midnight on Friday 30 September, when the processing charge increases. Once you’ve applied, you can change your preferences as many times as you like at no charge.

Schools Recommendation Scheme applications close 19 September

Year 12 students who would like to be considered for an early offer through the Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) need to submit their UAC application for admission plus their additional SRS application by 19 September. There is no fee for the SRS application.

The first offers to courses covered by SRS will be made on 11 November.  To learn more about how SRS works please click here

Understanding Early offer schemes for Year 12 students

While the ATAR is still the main selection tool used by most universities, there are other ways for students to show that they’re ready to succeed at tertiary study. Many institutions have one or more early offer schemes for Year 12 students. Through these schemes, the institutions will assess you using criteria other than (or in addition to) your ATAR. UAC provides a detailed overview of the offer schemes available at each institution.  Check UAC’s site, as well as the institution’s website, to make sure the course you are applying for is covered by one of these schemes.  

Important Dates

19 Sep 2022  11.59pm     Schools Recommendation Scheme applications close 

30 Sep 2022  11.59pm     Early bird application fee ends: application fee increases from $73 to $200 

11 Nov 2022   7.30am     First Schools Recommendation Scheme offers released

22 Nov 2022   11.59pm   Deadline to submit Educational Access Scheme application and documents to have them considered in December Round 2

15 Dec 2022 6.00am       NSW HSC results released by NESA

15 Dec 2022 9.00am       NSW and ACT ATARs released by UAC

22 Dec 2022   7.30am     December Round 2 offers released: first offers based on ATARs

UAC Digital 

UAC Digital offers a series of webinars on topics relevant to students, careers advisers, parents, and anyone navigating their path to higher education. Upcoming sessions include Let’s Chat sessions where current students share their experiences in subject areas such as:

  • Medical Science – 8 September
  • Music – 21 September
  • Alternative pathways – 13 October

Register for upcoming UAC Digital sessions.

If you miss any sessions, you can watch the recordings on YouTube.


Information Session for Students & Parents

ADF | Army Careers Virtual Information Session

Thursday 8 September 2022, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm – Online

Optimise your potential and consider a career that will transform you into a fit, capable, confident and resourceful member of the Australian Regular Army.

Discover whether an Army career is your kind of challenge at the upcoming virtual info session.

Find out more: https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/events/events-detail/9nm2vg7

Consider a Gap Year with the Department of Home Affairs in 2023

The Department of Home Affairs is offering a 12-month gap year to Year 12 students graduating in 2022. The gap year will begin in February 2023 and positions will be based in Parramatta, NSW. Contact entryprogramandpathways@homeaffairs.gov.au for more information. 

University of Sydney | ARTiculate French Continuers and Extension – La Francophonie

Wednesday 14 September 2022, 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Online

Join us in this free interactive webinar designed around the “French-speaking communities” theme of the French Continuers Stage 6 syllabus. Explore the meaning of the French-speaking world, its origins manifestation in different continents and legacy in contemporary France.

Find out more: https://uni-sydney.zoom.us/webinar/register/6016527669988/WN_kP65-ZyzQdSvjmG-pIudXw

Charles Sturt | We’re going live!

Tuesday 20 September 2022, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm – Online

We’ll step you through getting into uni (there’s more than one way), building a career (not just a job), life on campus (it’s fun and safe) and the costs associated with uni (our inclusions will surprise you!).

Our experts will be there to help you as a parent get ready for the uni experience.  They’ll be answering all your burning uni-related questions. So you can feel confident in helping your child reach their full potential.

Find out more click here. 

Q&A with UTS

Monday 26 September 2022, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm  Online

Curious about life at uni? Or interested in getting a question about an admission scheme answered? Join us for a Q&A session, where we’ll run through some of the frequently asked questions about UTS.

Find out more click here. 

ACU | Talk with Exercise Scientists and Physiotherapists

Wednesday 19 October 2022, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm – Online

A career in sport and exercise science will allow you to help people achieve peak performance and optimal health and wellbeing.

Join us online to hear from ACU alumni about their experiences working as exercise scientists and clinical exercise physiologists. Learn from our graduates who have worked with the Brisbane Lions, Wests Tigers, Sacramento Kings and more.

Take part in a Q&A session about what a career in exercise science and physiotherapy is like and where it could take you.

Find out more click here.

TAFE NSW | Launch your Career in Big Data

Thursday 20 October 2022, 10:00 am – 10:45 am    Online

Launch your Career is a series of interactive Live Virtual Events connecting students in Years 9 – 12 with industry to identify future career job possibilities. Launch your Career aims to facilitate a broad range of opportunities for students to engage with industry across NSW. Increased exposure to employers and the world of employment leads to better outcomes for students when selecting a sustainable career pathway. It’s also been shown to increase student engagement at school.

Data is the driving force for almost all aspects of our daily lives. Huge amounts of data generated by large-scale enterprises or even individual data will only add value if we are able to interpret the story behind the information. This event is the perfect taster to explore the industry and pursue your career in data analytics.

To find out more about TAFE courses in data click here

Careers Workshops in Aviation and Airports for Women

Oran Park: Thursday 15 September 2022

Join this fun, free and interactive workshop, open to women of all ages – including school leavers from 16 years. Each workshop is designed to share career pathways, training options and skill requirements, job application tips for women to apply for aviation jobs.

It’s a great insight into the amazing career opportunities that exist at airports, including careers that do not require any formal qualifications to enter.

Workshop outline:

  • Airports and Aviation careers
  • Aviation employer overview
  • Who’s hiring now
  • CV and cover letter writing

Learn, explore and ask questions in a relaxed and supportive environment!

Register for Oran Park: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/394113924357

ACTA College 

Is an RTO located in Liverpool NSW offering funded courses through Smart & Skilled in Construction and Trade related courses. ACTA College is currently taking enrolments for 2 Fee Free* Apprenticeship courses include the CPC30220 Certificate III in Carpentry and AUR30620 Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology. Contact ACTA College on 1300 730 830.

National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) 

If you are passionate about a career in performing arts, NIDA offers courses in acting, costume, design, make-up, musical theatre, props, scenic construction, stage management and technical theatre. NIDA’s practical-based training and industry connections ensures graduates enjoy successful careers in theatre, dance, opera, events, tv and more. Apply before September 30.

BiG Day in Newcastle – 26 October 2022 @ UON BiG Day In IT Careers Conference for students 

Yrs. 9-12 @ University of Newcastle on 26 October 2022 – Speakers incl. Defence Force Recruiting, nib, Mudbath, WiseTech Global, TCS, Westpac & more talking about their careers & the future of technology.  Loads of cool exhibitors inc. ACS, NIB, Mudbath, Wisetech Global, Defence & loads more. Tickets $10 for students http://www.thebigdayin.com.au.

Australian Academy of Beauty Dermal and Laser RTO 90094 

Weekly Information Evenings are held at 3 Sydney locations on Wednesday evenings at 7pm. Please register below to come for a tour and to hear all about your career opportunities studying Beauty Therapy Dermal and Laser. Contact amy@aabt.com.au or ph 0493450900 https://www.australianacademyofbeautytherapy.com/information-evenings/.

Sydney Design School Love interiors 

Australia’s award-winning interior design school is hosting an Info Session on Wednesday 7 September at 6pm. Find out more about their accredited interior design qualifications delivered on campus and online. Join them at Sydney Design School 2/40 Oxley St, St Leonards, Sydney 2065. Register to attend here https://bit.ly/3Alfnu7.  

TAFE NSW – Bradfield Senior College Open Day – Thursday, 8 September 

Do you have students in Years 10 or 11 who have a creative passion they could turn into a career? Would they benefit from studying their HSC in an adult learning environment? Register to attend the Open Day on Thursday, 8 September for potential students to meet creative experts, explore the facilities, and find out more. Register now: https://www.bradfield.nsw.edu.au/events/open-day-89/

Australian National University Open Day – Saturday 3 September 2022.  

Please join ANU on campus or online for ANU Open Day, 9:00am – 3:00pm Saturday 3 September. For more information and registration to attend in person, please visit https://openday.anu.edu.au/.

ACU Online Open Day 2022 

If you need more information about choosing ACU, want to chat to staff about the courses ACU offer, then Open Day is for you.  Join us online on Saturday 10 September 10am – 2pm. Register here now.

Sydney Actors School and Sydney Film School 

You’re invited to attend the Open Houses at Waterloo Studios, Sydney. Tour the state-of-the-art Film & TV studio and learn why Sydney Actors School and Sydney Film School offer the most practical, hands-on accredited programs in Australia. To register, please click here to register

Western Sydney University Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Future Students

Can register now for Western’s Information Evening on 20 September, where they can learn about scholarships, services, and pathways. For more information and to register here.

Western Sydney University 

On 13 September, students can discover Western’s early offer and pathways programs, and explore how to apply for university and get an offer without ATAR, at the Discover Western Webinar. Learn more and register https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/student-life/events/western-webinars?cid=em:EGMT-CAA-news-DWW_aug22.

Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School – Open Day 8 October

At the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School Open Day, in Leura, NSW. Discover how world-class training can lead you to a successful career in hotel management. Experience campus tours and workshops, hear from speakers, enjoy lunch and chat with a Course and Careers Adviser. Register here


Scholarships, Early Entry, Alternative Pathways

ACU Veteran Entry Program

An alternate entry pathway into your dream course, the ACU Veteran Entry Program is available to current and former serving members of the Australian Defence Force, as ACU as their partners, spouses, and children. Applications are now open and assessed on a rolling basis. Apply now: acu.edu.au/veterans.  

ACU Guarantee closing date

Guarantee your place at ACU before your Year 12 exams. ACU Guarantee offers eligible Year 12 students a place at ACU based on their Year 11 results. Applications close 23 September 2022. Apply now here.

Western Sydney University

The College is the official pathway provider into Western. Current and non-current school leavers can apply now and until 17 October to start their University Foundation Studies or Diploma programs in Term 3 and guarantee a place at Western. Find out more here.

UOW College

Pathways to the University of Wollongong: If university is the end goal for the person you are supporting, taking a different pathway to get there doesn’t mean they will lose time and be left behind. UOW College offers Diplomas that provide guaranteed entry into the 2nd year of many UOW degrees. Explore pathways at www.uowcollege.edu.au/study/pathways.edu.au or email us at uowca-future@uow.edu.au


Traineeships, Cadetships, Apprenticeships – Information & Opportunities

Careers at Council 

Local Government is a great place for students and school leavers to start their career. A huge range of traineeships, apprenticeships and cadetships are available in councils across NSW. Visit Careers at Council https://www.careersatcouncil.com.au/entry-level-opportunities/ for more information and our Jobs Board https://www.careersatcouncil.com.au/jobs/ for vacancies available now.

Master Builders Association of NSW

Master Builders are here to help young people become a quality apprentice or trainee. Our 3-week entry level Pre-Apprenticeship training program provides an introduction into both the industry and a carpentry trade prior to commencing an apprenticeship. For further information go to our website https://www.mbaapprenticeship.com.au/mbas-pre-apprenticeship-program/.

Master Builders Association of NSW are taking applications now for apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities in the Northern Beaches and Northern Sydney area. Master Builders have opportunities within multiple trades for all ages and entry levels. Suitable for those who have the commitment and drive to commence and complete an apprenticeship in the building and construction industry. For more information, please email careers@mbansw.asn.au.

Apprenticeship Engagement Forum (AEF) The Australian Apprenticeships and Traineeships Information Service (AATIS) and AEF have produced 3 great videos featuring young women in non-traditional trades. Carpentry – Candace – Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWCsPRC0QiE Signs & Graphics – Chrissy – Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qO5z4kHg2uU Painting & Decorating – Megan – Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcQcsAXgWq8.


Job and Experience for Students (including local job opportunities)

Local job opportunities available 

For further information please contact Ms Leonie Clarke, Post-school Pathways Coordinator – leonie.clarke@syd.catholic.edu.au.

  • First Year hairdressing apprentice at North Ryde
  • Year 12 Students (over 18 years of age): local RSL is looking for staff to work a variety of shifts
  • Childcare worker vacancy in Gladesville area: Full time position available for a Year 12 student who has completed the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.  
  •  
Study and Work

Participate in an Australian Traineeship Program to start your career as a Dental Assistant and get qualified with a Certificate IV in Dental Assisting. Get paid above trainee award wages and enjoy other incentives, while you learn on the job. Please apply at: https://www.studyandwork.com.au/job_details/dental-assistant-trainee.

Long Track Pantry 2023 Gap Year Applications Open

Have an adventure and learn hospitality skills in your gap year! We offer 6- and 12-month gap year placements. Accommodation available with flexible workdays and hours. Apply today! www.longtrackpantry.com.au or email careers@longtrackpanty.com.au for more information.

AFL Sports Ready

Traineeship opportunities in the Arts! Arts Ready and the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia have two exciting traineeships available for First Nation peoples wanting to pursue a career in the Arts. For more information visit: click here.  

Ms. Leonie Clarke, Post-School Pathways Coordinator

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