The Career Compass Term 1 Week 4

Welcome to the Career Compass, a fortnightly resource designed to keep our students, families, and community connected to the ever‑changing world of careers, pathways, and opportunities. Each edition will bring you timely updates, useful resources and links and industry insights to help guide informed decision‑making.

University open days start this week! This is a great time for families to step on to the WA university campuses and get amongst the exciting opportunity to explore the leaning environments that could become your next place of learning. This is a once a year opportunity and highly recommended for any student who aspires to attend University.

Languages Week is coming to St Marks and we have included some links and resources to some great jobs and careers and study options linked to the love of languages and culture.

At St Mark’s, we’re committed to helping senior students take confident steps toward life beyond school. Whether you're exploring university pathways, apprenticeships, or career options, this is our website with helpful guidance, resources, and real-world opportunities.

St Mark's Careers Website

Myth: ATAR is the only pathway to success and entry to University.

Truth: University have a number of admission pathway accessible to school leavers. These pathways include Portfolio entry, University Enabling Programs, Experienced Based Entry and also Vocational Qualifications. St Mark's offer all these opportunities in our Senior school.

To find out more use the links below

• UWA Experienced Based Entry Requirements

• Curtin University Entry Pathways

• ECU Experienced Based Entry Scheme

• Notre Dame Admission Requirements

MINING AND RESOURCES

Western Australia’s biggest industry offers a wide range of careers - not just working on site!

Careers include:

• Mining Engineer
• Environmental Scientist
• Geologist
• Electrician (FIFO opportunities)
• Heavy Diesel Mechanic
• Project Manager

Subjects to consider:
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Studies, Geography

Pathways:

• University degree

• TAFE qualification

• Apprenticeship

• School-based traineeship

Explore courses at:

• Mining Career Pathways click here

• The University of Western Australia click here

• Curtin University click here

• Edith Cowan University click here

• North Metropolitan TAFE click here

• South Metropolitan TAFE click here

Do you want to plan for your future and consider the industries with the greatest employment projections and growth ?

There are common trends in industry employment across the states and territories over the next 10 years to May 2035, with a few key differences that reflect state-related factors.

• Health Care and Social Assistance continues to be the largest employing industry by share of employment in 2035 in all states and territories, except for the Australian Capital Territory where Public Administration and Safety is the largest.
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services is projected to be the second largest employing industry in New South Wales and Victoria, contributing over 10% of employment in these jurisdictions.
• Construction is projected to be the third largest employing industry in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania and second largest in Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.
• A range of state-specific industry patterns continue through the projection period, such as relatively strong growth in mining employment in Western Australia, key business-oriented sectors in New South Wales and Victoria, public administration in the ACT, and accommodation and tourism-related employment in Queensland.

For more information head to Jobs and Skills Australia. Jobs and Skills Australia

Still not sure which University is right for you? The Good University Guide is a great online platform that can support you to make the right decision based on what really matters to you and YOUR university experience.

Below is a snap shot of the results.

To find out more click HERE and Explore all University, TAFE and training courses in Australia.

Consider a Gap Year in the Ag Industry for 2027.

You get:

• $3000 towards training.

• A full-time job.

• Tons of support to find out about career opportunities.

Check out the opportunities HERE.

Not sure where to start with Career Searching?

Interested to see what careers or industries suit your personality and character strengths?

Click on the link to take you to the InFocus Coggle to start exploring your options.

Hear your Dreams aptitude Quizzes

High-demand trades in WA:

• Electrician

• Plumber

• Carpenter

• Automotive Technician

• Heavy Diesel Mechanic

Benefits:
National qualification
Strong job security

Speak to the VET Coordinator for school-based apprenticeship options. click here

The Australian Apprenticeships Priority List identifies courses eligible for fee free courses and incentives to employers.

• Future apprentices who sign up with an employer are usually only required to pay for tools and equipment needed for the course, but all course fees are often exempt.

• There are 26 pages of Priority Occupations where there are skills shortages. You can find the full list HERE.
• Speak to Mrs Pearce for guidance in your choice.

The West Australian government subsidises VET courses for occupations where we have specific skills shortages.

See the Fee free and low fee course finder.

If you have an idea of what career you want to start, go to a Jobs and Skills Centre to find out if any courses in your chosen field attract a training subsidy.

The demand for electricians is going to double as solar, wind, hydrogen and battery power are rolled out.

Here are some ideas to get you thinking.

North Metropolitan TAFE

• Certificate II in Sustainable Energy (Career Start) | North Metropolitan TAFE (northmetrotafe.wa.edu.au)
• Certificate II in Electronics | North Metropolitan TAFE (northmetrotafe.wa.edu.au)
• Certificate II in Computer Assembly and Repair | North Metropolitan TAFE (northmetrotafe.wa.edu.au)

College of Electrical Training

• Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship | College of Electrical Training (CET)

The College of Electrical Training is now the biggest trainer of apprentice electricians in WA. They have a maths quiz as part of the application, and the CET course is also highly competitive.

South Metropolitan TAFE Defence Industry Electricians

The Defence Industry Pathways Program (DIPP) has been offered to senior school VETDSS students over the past year.

The DIPP is a 12-month paid traineeship which gives trainees exposure to various sectors of the defence industry (e.g. manufacturing and engineering, computing and logistics) and includes 3 X 12-week work placements with defence industry employers. It does not provide a direct entry into the electrical trade. However, the opportunity for DIPP participants to complete work-placements and demonstrate their work-ethic and aptitude can put them in a good position when Defence Industry employers advertise electrical apprenticeships.

See the video HERE.

You DO NOT have to enlist in the defence forces to work in the defence industry. The defence industry is made up of businesses that supply goods and services to the army, navy and air force.

Check out the South Metro TAFE Defence Industry Centre of Excellence for potential electrical pre apprenticeship and apprenticeships in the defence industry. You can find different, similar apprenticeships HERE.

• Our entry-level programs give school leavers, tertiary students and graduates opportunities to start their career at ASD.

• Apprentices work 3 to 4 days per week, with the rest of your time dedicated to completing a Certificate IV over an 18-month period. ASD will pay for your studies, and you will be granted paid study time.

You will put your new skills to use as you learn in an innovative and dynamic working environment on a range of tasks that support Australia’s national security.

As part of the program, Apprentices can pursue one of 2 streams:

• Technical stream: Cert IV in ICT (Networking or Programming and Web Applications.
• Project stream: Cert IV in Project Management

• ASD Cyber Security and Robotics Work experience programs for Year 11 and 12 students are also available. The program focuses on students who are considering further studies in a STEM-related field. We provide a practical and dynamic learning experience where you will engage with areas including information and communications technology (ICT), cyber security, intelligence and science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

• You must be an Australian citizen to be eligible for our entry-level programs

• Applications close Monday 6 April
• Click LINK for more information

A Practical VET Pathway into the Electrical Trade

The Certificate II in Data and Voice Communications (UEE20720) offers students a practical and industry‑aligned VET pathway into the electrical field. Through hands‑on learning, students develop core capabilities such as installing and maintaining telecommunication cabling, working safely with extra‑low voltage systems, assembling components, and interpreting technical drawings—skills that closely support the early stages of electrical trade training. The qualification also includes training aligned with ACMA open cabler registration, giving students a valuable edge when approaching electrical industry intakes and apprenticeship opportunities

With these strong foundations, students become more confident, job‑ready, and competitive in a field where hands‑on experience is highly valued. Apprenticeship Support Australia further strengthens this pathway by helping students explore apprenticeship options, connect with potential host employers, and navigate their next steps with personalised support.

If a student is interested in a school based apprenticeship this does require a student to be employed and working with an employer. Good businesses to try are electricians, Audio Visual Technicians, security Installers etc.

For students serious about an electrical career, this VET pathway doesn’t just open doors—it helps them walk through with confidence.

Check out Comtech Training options UEE20720 Certificate II in Data and Voice Communications

Classroom to Painting Pathways Program

The classroom to Painting Pathways Program offers a unique work experience opportunity with Programmed Property Services.

The initiative gives selected students to opportunity to gain first hand industry experience and a real insight into what it's like to work as a professional painter and decorator.

If you are interested click HERE for more information.

Click HERE for the student application form

If you’re considering University as a possible destination Open Days are highly recommended!

This is the time of the year where all Universities open their campus and host the their Annual Open Day. This is the perfect chance to explore the campus, speak to lecturers and students, tour facilities, and learn about courses and entry pathways.

• Edith Cowan University (Joondalup Campus)- Sunday 15 March click here
• University of Western Australia- Sunday 22 March click here
• Murdoch University- Saturday 28 March- click here
• Curtin University- Sunday 29 March click here
• Edith Cowan University- 9 August
• Notre Dame University- Saturday 2 May click here

This is a helpful collation of information created by Curtin University for future students.

The guide includes:

• Career quiz

• Study tips

• Glossary of university language

• Study areas and course explanations

This 150 page online booklet is useful even if you DON’T want to go to Curtin. Check it out HERE.

• If you want to apply for medicine for 2027 you will need to undertake a UCAT assessment.

• Sign up for notices on the UCAT ANZ website.

• These are the important dates for UCAT in 2026:

Deadline times are 11.59pm AEST - Australian Eastern Standard Time

1-on-1 Casper Test Preparation Tuition

Designed specifically for Curtin University Medical Entry (and other Casper-requiring programs), this individualised training session provides intensive, hands-on learning.

During a 2-hour one-on-one session, students work directly with Rebekah Ramsey to:

• Practise realistic Casper question types and scenarios.

• Master the 14-scenario format and timed open-ended responses.

• Understand best practices for on-camera recorded responses.

• Receive personalised, detailed feedback on answers and delivery.

• Improve confidence, timing, and communication clarity under pressure.

This focused tuition helps students respond effectively and confidently to Casper questions — both written and video-based.

Get details and resources HERE

BHP and Rio are companies advocating for diversity in the workplace. In conjunction with the ACS Foundation Neuro Inclusive Scholarships help Australia's STEM community harness diverse talent and those interested in computing. Read about it HERE.

Curtin University has invested in creating a positive learning environment for students with autism. Check out their AccessAbility services HERE.

Jamie Erak, the 2026 Rhodes Scholar went to Curtin, after leaving school to be home-schooled. He has autism which helped him to focus “I have very strong interests in certain subjects.” Read about him HERE.

The WA Mining Club have created some great opportunities to attend multi day field trips for high school students in Years 10-12 to get a first hand experience in the mining industry. Students will visit some state of the art resources and rub shoulders with mining veterans.

Click here to learn more and register your interest.

Students in Years 10–12 who are interested in spending a year overseas in 2027 are invited to explore the Rotary Youth Exchange program, which offers the chance to live with host families, attend school, learn another language and experience a new culture. Applications for the 2027 program are now open and close on 24 March 2026, with eligibility for WA students who will be aged between 15 and 18.5 in January 2027 and have completed at least Year 10.

Please consider this life changing opportunity to study in a foreign country through a supported, low cost exchange program. Rotary Youth Exchange is run through Rotary clubs around the world. To find details about how to apply for 2027 click here

The home of career information. For families supporting their children, this is a must-use career resource.

The "Your Career" national webpage is yourcareer.gov.au, an Australian government website that provides careers information, resources, and tools to help people plan and manage their career journey. It is delivered by the Australian government's National Careers Institute (NCI) and offers access to data and information from trusted sources.

Search industries, occupations and study options to find a career that is right for you and what you can do to get there.

Need more help?

• Parents and Guardian Guide can be accessed HERE.