CAREERS & VET

Year 12 Career Preparation Interviews
As we continue to support your daughters in achieving their post-school goals, Career Preparation Interviews have been taking place throughout Term 1. These one-on-one sessions provide personalised guidance as students explore university pathways, vocational options, and future career directions.

Appointments will continue into Term 2, and I warmly invite any student who has not yet attended an interview or who would benefit from a follow-up conversation to book a time. I look forward to continuing to support each student as they take their next steps beyond school.

Vocational Education & School-Based Traineeships
Students are actively engaging in Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathways, undertaking a wide range of practical, hands-on learning experiences aligned with current industry needs. This year, students are participating in external programs such as the Deadly Start Program, along with school-based traineeships in areas including Certificate III in Hospitality, Certificate III in Pharmacy, and Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles. Students are also enrolled in TAFE courses such as Certificate I in Construction and Certificate II in Electrotechnology.

School-based traineeships continue to be a valuable pathway, allowing students to combine their senior schooling with paid employment and nationally recognised training. Through these opportunities, students are gaining real-world experience, developing essential employability skills, and building strong industry connections while working towards their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

JCU NOW
This year, we have four Year 11 students participating in the JCU NOW program at James Cook University for Trimester 1. JCU NOW provides high-achieving students with the opportunity to study real first-year university subjects while still at school, allowing them to experience university-level learning, build confidence, and explore future career pathways. Students can also gain valuable QCE credit and even contribute towards their future degree, giving them a significant head start beyond school.  We congratulate these students on embracing this opportunity and demonstrating a strong commitment to their academic and future pathways.

Townsville Hospital High School Health Careers Program
Four of our Year 11 students recently attended the first sessions of the Townsville Hospital High School Health Careers Program, gaining a valuable insight into the healthcare industry. Throughout the day, students participated in hands-on activities and simulations, including emergency scenarios, patient care experiences, and interactive sessions with a range of allied health professionals. This immersive experience provided students with a deeper understanding of the diverse career pathways available in health and helped them explore their interests in a real-world clinical environment.

Try a Trade – Kirwan Health Campus
Twelve of our students attended the Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) Gateway Schools Program, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the construction industry. Throughout the day, students rotated through a range of practical activity stations, using real tools and working alongside qualified industry trainers in a safe and supportive environment. This immersive experience provided insight into various construction trades and career pathways, helping students to better understand opportunities within the industry. We commend the students on their engagement and enthusiasm in embracing this practical learning opportunity.

Work Experience Opportunities
Work Experience continues to be a highly encouraged (but voluntary) opportunity for students to explore potential career pathways. To ensure minimal disruption to academic studies, we strongly recommend that placements are completed during the school holiday periods. A number of students will be completing Work Experience this upcoming holiday period across a variety of industries including Health, Allied Health, Legal, Education, and Business sectors providing valuable insight into future career options and helping students make informed decisions about their pathways. As always, I encourage students to take advantage of these opportunities, remain proactive in exploring their interests, and reach out for support when needed.

For any questions or support with career planning, subject selection, VET pathways, or work experience opportunities, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Ms Flores at cflores@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au. I am always happy to assist students and families in navigating the many pathways available and ensuring each student feels confident in their next steps beyond school.

Camille Flores

DEAN OF PATHWAYS