Leader of Pathways and Partnerships – Lisa Formica
A huge congratulations to our class of 2025 who received outstanding results in their HSC. This has been a culmination of their dedication and commitment to their studies, with the support of each other, their parents, and their teachers.
Every week I provide all students access to a Careers Newsletter. This is made available on Fridays in Daily Notices. A link is provided on this page to a folder where all current and past newsletters are stored. This is an extensive newsletter which provides information on careers, universities, TAFE, private providers as well as opportunities and scholarships. It is well worth scanning each week to see if there are any entries of interest to you.
As we begin 2026, I am planning for our Empower Presentations in Terms 2 and 3. These presentations are usually held at lunchtime, and provide our students the opportunity to learn first hand about a potential occupation. It is an informal chat and students are interested in learning about what you do on a day-to-day basis, how you entered your role (eg what study / experience was needed), what you love about your role and any advice you can give. If you are available to offer a half hour of your time to discuss your role with our students, I would love to hear from you. (lisa.formica@syd.catholic.edu.au)
Parents and Carers webpage – University of Sydney
To support students throughout their final years of schooling, and to assist parents with understanding the processes, the different universities provide resources and webinars.
The Parents and Carers page for the University of Sydney is a valuable link for parents to keep bookmarked.
UCAT 2026
The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT ANZ) is an admissions test used by the UCAT ANZ Consortium of universities in Australia and New Zealand for their medical, dental and clinical science degree programmes.
The test helps universities to select applicants with the most appropriate abilities and professional behaviours required for new doctors and dentists to be successful in their clinical careers. It is used in collaboration with other admissions processes such as interviews and academic qualifications.
It is also an opportunity to stand out from other applicants and demonstrate aptitude for a demanding programme of study.
The UCAT ANZ is a computer-based test delivered in Pearson test centres throughout Australia, New Zealand and worldwide.
Please note that some pathways to medicine / dentistry / clinical sciences will not require the UCAT ANZ. For some applicants a different test may be required. For details candidates should refer to the websites of the universities to which they intend to apply.
Applications for testing open 3 March 2026 – for all relevant dates related to UCAT please visit this site.
It is valuable to commence preparing for UCAT in your Year 11 year.
NOTE: There are many organisations who offer UCAT preparation courses. When researching these organisations, please ensure it is right for you. There are many free resources available on the UCAT website.
Cadet today, Cop Tomorrow
The NSW Police Force is officially launching a Cadet Traineeship Program for school leavers and young adults.
The 12-month pilot program will provide an authentic hands-on experience, combining practical training, academic study and paid employment to provide a structured pathway for aspiring police officers to enter the NSW Police Force. Applications for the program are now open to Year 10 school leavers, but will accommodate young adults up to the age of 21.
Applicants will undergo physical, medical and psychometric testing, as well as baseline vetting, to determine their professional suitability for the program.
The program will launch in April 2026, with successful candidates to undertake a three-week induction.
Cadets will then be placed at either The Hills or Sutherland Police Area Commands, where they will complete 12 months of field-based learning, rotating through four placements, including six months in general duties, two months with Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, two months with the detectives unit and two months with the crime prevention unit. Cadets will also obtain first aid and aquatic sequence rescue training, as well as a driving certification.
During the cadetship, trainees will wear a dedicated uniform, easily distinguishing them from other officers.
At the conclusion of the program, cadets will have completed the traineeship qualification, being a Certificate III in Business.
Applicants can apply when they are aged 16, but will need to have turned 17 by the time the program commences in April 2026.
Job Opportunity
Joselyn Bancs Hair is currently looking for enthusiastic and motivated students who are interested in beginning a career in the hair industry. We have openings for a first-year apprentice, as well as a Wednesday night and Saturday salon helper.
We are offering both standard and school-based apprenticeship opportunities, providing hands-on experience in a professional salon environment alongside a supportive and skilled team.
This is a fantastic chance for students passionate about hair and beauty to start their journey in the industry while gaining real-world experience and training.
If you have any students who may be interested, we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to pass this information along or reach out with any questions.
For more information please get in contact with Liv via email (liv.joselynbancs@gmail.com) or call the salon on 0448 780 780 to speak to Joselyn.
Lisa Formica, Leader of Pathways and Partnerships