Careers

MRS LAURA ANDERSON, CAREERS ADVISOR

As our Year 12s celebrated the completion of their formal secondary education, Queensland formally said goodbye to the OP system and embarked on a the National ATAR system. Anyone who has been privileged enough to hear Dr Evans speak, knows she is passionate about inspiring us all to finish well, and our 2020 graduands results certainly did that. So, thank you to our Year 12s, we are so very proud of your academic achievements and even more proud of the character, grit and care you displayed throughout your final year with us at Fairholme College. As our 2020 cohort embark on a world of firsts, well know they are well equipped to manage the rewards and challenges that they will encounter.

As in previous years, the university application results reflect the dedication and hard work of our Year 12 students, with all who applied receiving an offer. This year, students also displayed their knowledge of how to manage a complex application process with care and diligence. They were also very good at seeking clarification when they were unsure about what their next step should be, which is indicative of their well-structured decision-making skills and ability to remain focused and calm under pressure.

The major universities in Brisbane continue to be the most popular tertiary choice, largely due to the broad range of degrees available that are not offered locally. The University of New England also continues to be a popular choice for students, with the Health Sciences, Law and Psychology continuing to be the leading degrees of choice. Degrees in Science, Maths and Education were more popular than in previous years.

Year 11s were offered an opportunity to prepare for their Senior year through their participation in the Year 11 Career Engagement Day. In 2020 they were also encouraged to develop an understanding of goal setting through vision boards to assist them with their long-term personal and career aspirations. Each Year 11 student participated in a mock interview, which is an invaluable opportunity to assist with developing an understanding of industry and employability. Earlier this year, our Year 11s also enjoyed a full day in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, visiting leading universities to expand their knowledge of tertiary education and life as a university student.

Year 10s completed their Career Avenues profiling and Work Experience. Opportunities of this nature allow our Year 10s to develop an understanding of themselves and the world of work so they feel prepared for their Senior studies.

Year 9 students were introduced into the concept of career development in the later part of Term 4. During this session, students completed the My Future Finder activity and were also given information to help them begin their exploration into their 2021 Work Experience Placement.

In 2020, Senior students enjoyed the additional challenges of participating in the University of Southern Queensland Headstart Program, Central Queensland University SUN Program, UCAT preparation and the University of Queensland’s Young Scholars Program.